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By Victor Kaisar

Freezing Rain on Coquihalla

Freezing rain, snow could mean challenging conditions on Coquihalla this weekend

Dec 5, 2024 | 12:44 PM

KAMLOOPS — Environment Canada is reminding Swifties and others heading to Vancouver this weekend to watch for a mix of freezing rain and snow on mountain highways.

While no weather warnings have been issued as of noon Thursday (Dec. 5), meteorologist Lisa Erven says to expect challenging conditions on the Coquihalla starting early Friday morning until around 10 a.m. Saturday morning.

“We know this December weather all too well,” Erven told CFJC Today. “When we have a risk of freezing rain in the forecast, the best thing you can do is either try to avoid those times.”

“You can also take Highway 1 through the Fraser Canyon to avoid the risk of freezing rain.”

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Erven says the rain will change to snow once freezing levels drop on Saturday afternoon.

“As you’re travelling say the Coquihalla [between Hope and Merritt], we’re going to see that precipitation switch from rain to snow leading to a potentially challenging drive for Saturday afternoon, evening, and even continuing into the first little bit there of Sunday morning,” Erven added.

“So for any travellers that are still heading towards or perhaps out of the Lower Mainland, if you’re just trying to avoid that snowfall waiting a few extra hours will help.”

You can find the latest highway alerts from Environment Canada here.