Highway 5, by Britton Creek Rest Area northbound turnoff, looking north at around 6:20 a.m. Wednesday (Image credit: DriveBC).

By Aaron Schulze

Coquihalla Watch

Heavy snow and gusty winds continue to make travel difficult on Coquihalla Highway

Feb 28, 2024 | 6:36 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — Heavy snow and gusty winds continue to make travel difficult on the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt.

Environment Canada upgraded its winter storm watch for the stretch of Highway 5 to a winter storm warning. In addition to the heavier snowfall, the weather agency says gusty southwest winds will begin Wednesday (Feb. 28) and last until Thursday.

Snowfall amounts may vary along the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt due to elevation, but the forecast is calling for between 25 to 40 centimetres of snow until Thursday.

It’s due to a strong Pacific frontal system that’s pushing through B.C.’s interior.

Environment Canada warns that rapidly accumulating snow can make travel difficult over some locations and reduce visibility suddenly. Weather in the mountains can chance suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

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The heavy snowfall and gusty winds are expected to taper off late Thursday.

Winter storm warnings were also issued for the Trans Canada Highway from Eagle Pass to Rogers Pass and Highway 3 from Hope to Princeton during the same timeframe.