Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a significant snowfall warning for the Coquihalla Highway, alerting drivers to prepare for hazardous conditions over the next two days. The federal weather agency posted the alert early Thursday morning, forecasting heavy and blowing snow that could severely impact travel.
Substantial Snow Accumulation Forecast
The weather agency predicts that up to 30 centimeters of snow will accumulate on Thursday, with another 30 centimeters expected on Friday. This brings the total potential snowfall to between 40 and 60 centimeters by Friday evening. The prolonged snowfall event is being driven by a weather system moving through British Columbia, accompanied by strong southwesterly winds that will create blowing snow and reduced visibility.
Travel Advisories and Safety Concerns
Drivers traveling between Hope and Merritt are being warned that visibility could be significantly reduced, making driving conditions particularly dangerous. Environment and Climate Change Canada has emphasized that travel will likely be challenging throughout the warning period, with possible road closures due to hazardous conditions.
Key details from the warning include:
- Snowfall beginning Thursday and continuing through Friday
- Strong southwesterly winds creating blowing snow
- Reduced visibility between Hope and Merritt
- Potential for road closures if conditions deteriorate
- Snowfall expected to taper off Friday evening
Preparation and Safety Recommendations
Motorists planning to use the Coquihalla Highway are advised to check current road conditions before traveling and consider postponing non-essential trips. Those who must travel should ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for winter conditions, including winter tires, emergency supplies, and full fuel tanks. The weather agency recommends allowing extra travel time and maintaining safe following distances due to the expected poor visibility and slippery road surfaces.
The snowfall warning comes as part of Environment and Climate Change Canada's ongoing monitoring of winter weather systems affecting British Columbia's transportation corridors. The Coquihalla Highway, a critical transportation route through the province, is particularly vulnerable to weather-related disruptions during winter months.
