By Canadian Press

B.C. police warn against travel as south coast braces for snowfall

Feb 13, 2021 | 3:12 PM

VANCOUVER — A snowfall warning took effect for much of Metro Vancouver on Saturday, with Environment Canada predicting five to 10 centimetres could fall on the traditionally snow-free region over the course of the day.

The agency said the projected blast of winter id due to a collision between Pacific moisture associated with an approaching frontal system and an arctic front along Vancouver Island.

Victoria police issued a statement Saturday morning urging residents to avoid non-essential travel following “significant” snowfall overnight that left many major roads “impassable.”

Environment Canada lifted its winter storm warning for the Greater Victoria region in the early afternoon.

B.C. Transit, which runs public transit on Vancouver Island, has suspended all service in the Cowichan Valley region and is only running eight bus routes in Victoria.

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DriveBC has issued travel advisories for highways 1, 14 and 18 on Vancouver Island, warning drivers of limited visibility and snow.

Saturday’s forecast marks the latest bout of cold weather to hit B.C.’s south coast.

Temperatures in Victoria, Metro Vancouver and other areas have plunged 10 to 20 degrees below seasonal norms over the past week.

The City of Vancouver said in a release that it’s prepared for the blast of winter weather, with 3,000 tonnes of salt, 100 vehicles and equipment and hundreds of staff available to clear roads and sidewalks.

TransLink, the city’s public transit operator, has warned riders to expect delays due to road and weather conditions.

The city has also opened additional shelter space as well as warming centres, which become available when actual or perceived temperatures reach -5 degrees C.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 13, 2021.

The Canadian Press