Winter Wonderland: Vancouver Island Snowfall and Arctic Outflow Threatens North Coast – Insights from Environment Canada

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

Environment Canada reports a low-pressure system is bringing light flurries over Vancouver Island. Some areas could see more than 5 centimeters of snow.

The weather service advises travelers to plan for extra time as the driving conditions can change quickly.

In northern B.C., particularly around Terrace and Kitimat, an Arctic outflow is expected. This means cold temperatures combined with strong winds. Wind chill values could feel like -20 degrees, especially overnight and in the mornings.

Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activities and keep pets indoors to stay safe from the cold.

This recent cold snap caused significant snowfall and even closed some schools. On Friday, communities like Abbotsford set new low-temperature records, dropping to -11 degrees—three degrees colder than the previous record from 1989.

Other areas like Hope, Sechelt, and Gibsons also noted record lows. Hope’s temperature fell to -8.6 degrees, breaking a record that had stood since 1948.