Special weather statement issued for Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley

Environment Canada is warning people along B.C.’s South Coast of accumulating snow and frigid temperatures this weekend.

The weather service says Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley, Howe Sound, Whistler, and the Sea to Sky regions will all see strong outflow winds, cold temperatures, and wind chill.

“On Saturday, precipitation will fall as light flurries or showers depending on temperature and elevation. In general, two up to four centimetres of snow can be expected across the region. For Metro Vancouver, snowfall accumulations are mainly expected over higher terrain,” Environment Canada said Friday.

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While unsure of exactly when the storm fronts will bring the snow, the service says Saturday night through Sunday will bring a period of heavy flurries to the region.

“Recent model guidance indicates total snowfall amounts near 10 cm are likely for the Fraser Valley, Howe Sound, Whistler, and the Sea to Sky highway. Near 5 cm of snow are possible over Metro Vancouver,” it said.

Temperatures will drop well below what’s normal for this time of year, it says, and notes it will be five to 10 degrees below the seasonal average.

In preparation for the snow, Lower Mainland road crews told CityNews they have been busy brining major roadways, and when the snow begins to fall, will be out with their ploughs.

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