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Snowfall and cold alert for region
Mainroad East Kootenay Contracting’s meteorological service is predicting snowfall across the East Kootenay, starting Friday and tapering off to flurries on Saturday. And Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement warning of incoming colder temperatures.
“The total amount of snow is uncertain, with some forecasts showing heavier precipitation rates than others. Additionally, following this snowfall, temperatures are forecasted to plunge, with expected lows dipping below -20C from Sunday night onwards into next week,” Mainroad stated.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the region as Arctic air will invade B.C. beginning late Friday (Jan. 27), with a major shift in temperature from our mild January.
Temperatures will be five to 10 degrees colder than normal for this time of year in the central and southern interior of B.C.
A short period of gusty winds will accompany the cold air’s arrival through the interior, and may combine with snow leading to a brief period of blowing snow Saturday.
Temperatures are expected to gradually rise late next week, in early February. However, there remains significant uncertainty on the timing of a return to seasonal temperatures, Environment Canada predicted.
The incoming cold and snow could mean further woe on highways and side roads.
“You will have noticed our equipment applying anti-icing chemicals, including liquid brine, to area highways and arterial roads over the last few days in anticipation of the incoming weather. We ask that you continue to leave plenty of space for our operators when you see our snow removal equipment servicing the roadways,” Mainroad stated in its public alert.
“The extreme cold weather following the snowfall could lead to the formation of compact conditions, especially on side roads. Our crews will continue with plowing operations and applying anti-icing chemicals and abrasive materials to the area roadways until the roads are returned to a safe standard.”
Motorists should use caution, drive to the conditions, and prepare for delays caused by the weather.
Please also check www.drivebc.ca for traffic cameras and road conditions before heading out. Mainroad’s 24-hour communications and dispatch office will pass on your observations and concerns to our crews when contacted.
e-KNOW file photo
e-KNOW
