Winter Has Arrived: Metro Vancouver Hit with Its First Major Snowfall!

Metro Vancouver is experiencing a chilly winter spell, with snow covering everything from rooftops to sidewalks.

According to meteorologist Michael Kuss from 1130 NewsRadio, a snowfall warning is currently in place. This initial snowfall will persist until Sunday morning, gradually transitioning into wet flurries and rain in the afternoon.

More snow is expected soon, so keep your shovels handy.

Some areas have already received over 10 centimeters of snow, with total accumulations from this round potentially reaching between 10 to 20 centimeters.

“There’s another wave headed our way early Monday morning,” Kuss noted, as arctic air combines with an upper-level low pressure system near Vancouver Island, leading to unstable snow showers.

Environment Canada indicates that while higher locations will see the most snow, all neighborhoods could experience heavy snowfall.

Flurries began appearing in parts of Vancouver and Burnaby on Saturday afternoon.

Additionally, a warning has been issued for the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt, where 25 centimeters of snow is expected by Saturday night.

Driving conditions are challenging, with reports of vehicles having trouble in the snow. Steve from Burnaby described Willington between Deer Lake and Kingsway as a “horror show” filled with stuck cars, trucks, and buses.

To stay safe on the roads, BCAA advises drivers to be extra cautious. Josh Smythe, an automotive customer care manager, emphasizes the need for proper winter tires instead of all-season tires.

It’s also crucial to clear snow from your vehicle before heading out. Many drivers neglect to scrape all their windows, which can lead to visibility issues. Remember to check all windows, especially the back ones, for safe shoulder checking.

This weekend, BCAA expects an increase in calls for assistance as drivers encounter problems like sliding off roads or getting stuck.

Stay informed by listening to 1130 NewsRadio Vancouver, which provides traffic and weather updates every ten minutes. You can also follow them on X @NewsRadioVan.