Highway 5, about 61 kilometres south of Merritt, looking north at around 12:00 p.m. Tuesday. (Image Credit: DriveBC)

By Aaron Schulze

Hazardous Driving Conditions

UPDATE: Winter storm warning issued as up to 60 cm of snow expected on Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt

Mar 10, 2026 | 12:15 PM

KAMLOOPS — (UPDATE 5:45 p.m.): Environment Canada has upgraded a winter storm watch for the Hope to Merritt section of the Coquihalla to a winter storm warning.

The weather agency says hazardous winter conditions are expected as it is forecasting up to 60 centimetres of snow to fall by Thursday (March 12) morning.

There will also be periods of near zero visibility in blowing snow as strong southwest wind gusts up to 100 km/h are also expected.

“Snow will begin in earnest late Wednesday afternoon as the low approaches the highway,” Environment Canada said in a statement. “As a sharp cold front associated with this low passes over the area Wednesday night, snowfall will intensify and winds will rise with strong wind gusts up to 100 km/h resulting in near zero visibility in blowing snow.”

“The snow level will also fluctuate depending on the rate of snowfall and strength of the southwest winds.

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As of publishing, a winter storm watch remains in effect for the Okanagan Connector between Merritt and Kelowna and Highway 3 between Hope ans Princeton with up to 10 centimetres of snow expected on both highways.

While conditions are expected to improve Thursday morning, Environment Canada says gusty winds and scattered flurries will prevail.

“Roads and walkways may be difficult to navigate. Visibility may be suddenly reduced to near zero at times. Some travel delays are possible,” Environment Canada added in its warning.