(Image credit: CFJC)
THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL

Wind, drifting snow pose challenges as Kamloops digs out from weekend snow dump

Nov 7, 2022 | 5:02 PM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops residents have gone from raking leaves and mowing their lawns to digging out driveways and clearing sidewalks — all in the span of a week.

Kamloops received its first significant snowfall this weekend and has left many drivers spinning.

As city crews have been clearing out roads, shovelling sidewalks and laying down sand working 24/7, a mix of wind and the harsh weather conditions have made the job even more difficult for snowplow crews.

“One of the greatest challenges over the last 24 hours is the high volume of snow as well as the high winds. The high winds have been a challenge as it’s blowing the snow. We appear on a road and then all the great work that we’ve done is then covered up again with that blowing snow,” says City of Kamloops Streets and Environmental Services Manager, Glen Farrow.

A snowfall warning was in effect for the region over the last two days which saw 10 to 20 centimetres of snow.

A travel advisory was issued for Coquihalla Sunday (Nov. 6) and Environment Canada says the highway received a heavy amount of snow.

“The highest amounts nearby were recorded along the Coquihalla from Merritt to Kamloops which is up near Helmer lake they recorded 21 centimetres as of now. Most of the snow will be tapering off this afternoon and then we’ll be left with a chance of flurries this evening,” says Environment Canada Meteorologist Derek Lee.

Both the City of Kamloops and Environment Canada advises drivers to remain home if they are able, make sure to have winter tires and drive slowly to remain safe in these conditions.