Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Motorists planning to travel between British Columbia’s Lower Mainland and the province’s Interior are being warned to brace for an extended period of heavy snowfall that’s likely to disrupt travel on the Coquihalla Highway into Friday.
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a yellow snowfall warning for the stretch of the Coquihalla linking Hope and Merritt, which could see between 40 and 60 centimetres of snow beginning Wednesday night and lasting into Friday, as a frontal system passes through.
The agency says the system is set to create high winds and instability in its wake, including the heavy snowfall that will likely make roadways in the region difficult to navigate.
The same weather system has also generated a wind warning in the Fraser Canyon, with gusts up to 90 km/h forecast to last into Thursday.
WATCH | Meteorologist explains why snowfalls are sometimes heavier despite global warming:
Why are snowfalls unusually heavy now?
Meteorologist Johanna Wagstaffe explains why some places are seeing heavier snowfalls than usual despite global warming.
High winds are also expected in the Stuart-Nechako region, west of Prince George, and in the southern Peace region, including Fort St. John, Dawson Creek and Tumbler Ridge, with the latter region also expecting snow squall conditions.
A snowfall warning has also been issued for the Roger’s Pass section of Highway 1 between Sicamous and Golden, with 20 to 25 centimetres of snow expected into Thursday.
(Environment and Climate Change Canada)
