Around 60 to 90 millimetres of rain expected for Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt

KAMLOOPS — Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt due to an atmospheric river event.

Around 60 to 90 millimetres of rain is expected as heavy rain will enter the Interior starting Sunday (Nov. 14) morning. Environment Canada says there’s also a chance of seeing wet snow near Coquihalla Summit late Sunday afternoon and early Sunday evening as snow levels temporarily lower from 2,200 to 1,400 metres.

The heavy rain is expected to ease Monday (Nov. 15) afternoon and change to periods of snow as the system moves through the region. Melting snow combined with heavy rain may lead to challenging driving conditions due to water pooling on the roads and reduced visibility.

Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Environment Canada says drivers should be prepared for winter conditions at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions.