Winter weather is returning with a significant impact on the Southern Interior mountain passes of British Columbia. Environment Canada has issued severe weather warnings for the Coquihalla, Highway 3, and the Trans-Canada Highway. Drivers are cautioned about hazardous conditions due to heavy snowfall and strong winds.
Severe Snowfall Forecast for B.C. Mountain Passes
Snow is expected to begin falling on the Coquihalla from Hope to Merritt starting Tuesday morning. The snowfall will persist until Wednesday night, accumulating between 25 and 35 centimeters near the summit.
Snowfall Predictions
- Tuesday: 5 to 10 cm during the day.
- Tuesday Night: 10 to 20 cm overnight.
- Wednesday: An additional 10 to 15 cm likely.
As the snow levels rise, there may be times when the snow mixes with rain, especially in areas south of the summit. Here, rain totals could reach between 40 and 50 millimeters. Additionally, wind gusts are expected to reach up to 70 km/h, creating the potential for local blowing snow.
Impacts on Other Highways
The weather warnings also include forecasts for Highway 3 and the Trans-Canada Highway. Between Paulson Summit and Kootenay Pass, snowfall of 20 to 30 cm is anticipated, accompanied by strong winds that may reduce visibility.
Environment Canada advises that at peak times, snowfall may lead to near-zero visibility conditions on these routes. Light snow will begin this afternoon before intensifying into the night, with total accumulations of up to 30 cm expected by Wednesday morning.
