Roads a mess after snow falls on Metro Vancouver
Posted January 11, 2024 2:39 pm.
Last Updated January 11, 2024 10:07 pm.
The first real blast of winter of 2024 hit Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Thursday, as snow and sub-zero temperatures gripped the region.
The snow left a mess of local roads, particularly those farthest west, with reports of vehicles spun out across the area.
A 25-vehicle pileup shut both eastbound lanes on Highway 91 through the S-Curve in Richmond for a few hours Thursday evening. The lanes were reopened around 9 p.m.
Callers to CityNews described seeing traffic issues in virtually all Metro Vancouver communities, with hills particularly treacherous in North Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, and the Tri-Cities. Many callers reported issues getting off Highway 1 at the McGill Street offramp and going through the Massey Tunnel Thursday evening.
In Vancouver, the fire department said it was responding to various crashes and incidents. In an update just before 5 p.m., Vancouver Fire Rescue Services said it was dealing with “approximately 30 vehicles” that had crashed.
“Avoid driving, especially on any hills,” VFRS said.
Snow was also sticking on many of the highways, with slushy and dicey conditions reported. However, as the system bringing flurries moved across the region, snow-covered roads and sidewalks quickly turned to ice.
Motorists are being reminded to drive to conditions and ensure they have appropriate tires for the season.
Drivers are also being told to watch for road closures and to plan ahead before they head out.
The snow comes after Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an arctic outflow warning for the Lower Mainland, lasting until Saturday afternoon.
“Arctic air combined with strong outflow winds gusting to 60 km/h will generate wind chill values of minus 20 beginning tonight,” the agency said.
“Wind chill values may moderate on Saturday afternoon but uncertainty remains on the timing of the warm-up. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors. Any skin exposure will result in frostbite.”
Earlier this week, TransLink activated its snow plan to ensure its system was ready for winter conditions.
That plan includes all the normal preparations for sanding, de-icing, and tire socks for buses. if needed. TransLink also said it is also testing out new winter tires on a third of the Coast Mountain Bus Company’s fleet, which it says has the highest rating available on the market.
However, some transit vehicles were seen struggling on snow-covered roads Thursday, with some buses sliding on streets.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) also says it’s ready for snow, adding its “teams are prepared to safely get travellers on their way.”
It is urging travellers to plan ahead and to give themselves extra time getting to the airport.
Listen to CityNews 1130 LIVE now!Listen to CityNews 1130 for weather updates after traffic every 10 minutes on the ones. You can also follow Meteorologist Michael Kuss on X and subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
