The Elk Valley and West Kootenay highways may be treacherous as Environment Canada forecasts heavy snow followed by rain shortly afterwards.
Environment Canada officials stated that the Elk Valley will see as much as 15 cm of snow Monday before temperatures rise and then it will turn to rain later in the day.
The forecaster predicts that there will be freezing rain during this transition period.
Evening rain is possible, especially in the Fernie region.
Similar weather conditions are expected for Highway 3 from Paulson Summit to Kootenay pass.
It is possible for snow accumulations to reach 40 to 50 cm before it begins to rain on Monday night.
Higher elevations will see snow continue to fall until Tuesday.
North of there on the Trans-Canada Highway is where nearly 30cm of snow is expected between Eagle Pass and Rogers Pass.
The snowfall is expected be most severe on Monday afternoon and last until Tuesday.
As temperatures rise, snow will turn to rain on Tuesday morning and snowfall will continue at higher elevations.
“Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. Snow accumulation can make it difficult for vehicles to navigate roads, sidewalks, walkways, and parking lots. In heavy snowfall, visibility may be reduced abruptly. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots will become icy, slippery and hazardous,” said Environment Canada officials. “Melting snow could result in slippery and slushy conditions on the roads. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions.”
