Lower Mainland could see freezing rain, ice pellets this week: Environment Canada

More winter weather is on its way soon, according to a new special weather statement issued by Environment Canada just after 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

This time, the forecast includes freezing rain and ice pellets.

The weather service says a Pacific low pressure system is heading to the coast from the west, bringing with it moisture that will interact with the arctic air already on the south coast, the weather service said.

This will result in a “messy mix of rain, freezing rain and snow on Tuesday evening into Wednesday.” Snow is expected to start Tuesday evening.

“Following the snow, parts of Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland could see a prolonged period of freezing rain or ice pellets overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning,” the statement said.

“Freezing precipitation should change to rain during the day on Wednesday, though the timing of this transition is still uncertain.”

Environment Canada warns the weather during this time could pose challenges to travel and outdoor activities.

This latest statement comes just hours after the service lifted its arctic outflow warning. Following a flurry of snow and ice that coated the city in dangerous conditions Thursday evening, the bitter cold that came with it is finally expected to let up.

Arctic outflow warnings were also lifted in surrounding regions, including Howe Sound, Abbotsford, Merritt and Chilliwack on Sunday.

An arctic outflow warning remains in effect for the Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler and Pemberton, where wind chill values could reach close to -20 C through to Monday morning, according to the weather agency.

The Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector are also under an extreme cold warning for wind chill values between -35 C and -40 C on Sunday.

The ECCC states weather in the mountains can change rapidly, resulting in dangerous conditions.

It recommends covering exposed skin to avoid frostbite and watching for cold-related symptoms like shortness of breath, muscle pain, numbness and colour change in fingers and toes.

With files from Pippa Norman.

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