Vancouver Island Braces for Snow as Arctic Outflow Hits North Coast: What You Need to Know

More snow is on the way for parts of British Columbia’s south coast after a heavy storm earlier this week.

Environment Canada reports that a low-pressure system is causing “bands of flurries” over Vancouver Island. Some areas may see more than 5 centimetres of snow.

Travellers should plan for possible delays, as driving conditions can change quickly.

Additionally, a cold Arctic outflow is affecting parts of B.C.’s North Coast, including Terrace and Kitimat. This means very low temperatures combined with strong winds, creating a wind chill that could feel as cold as -20 degrees overnight and in the morning.

Residents in these areas are advised to limit outdoor activities and keep pets inside to protect them from the freezing conditions.

The recent cold weather not only led to heavy snowfall but also caused school closures. On Friday, Abbotsford set a new record low of -11 degrees, breaking the previous record from 1989 by three degrees. Hope, Sechelt, and Gibsons also reported record low temperatures, with Hope dropping to -8.6 degrees, breaking a mark that stood since 1948.