Heavy snow and strong winds expected for Coquihalla and Okanagan Connector Saturday night

KAMLOOPS — A winter storm is expected to hit two key Interior highways Saturday (Nov. 26) evening.

In an online statement, Environment Canada says a winter storm watch is in effect for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Kamloops and the Okanagan Connector from Kelowna to Merritt.

The storm watch is due to a strong Pacific frontal system that’s forecast to bring heavy snow — potentially 20 centimetres — and strong winds into the Southern Interior late Saturday. Environment Canada says winds gusting to 60 km/h will also create poor visibility in blowing snow.

Additionally, the weather agency says travel is expected to be difficult and hazardous due to the rapid accumulating snow and poor visibility.