Environment Canada has issued heavy snow and cold-weather warnings for Vancouver Island on Wednesday evening.
A special weather advisory has been issued for East Vancouver Island, including Courtenay, Campbell River, Duncan, Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay.
Snow is expected to start falling on Wednesday night and continue through Thursday morning.
These areas will likely see snowfalls of 5 to 10 cm as a storm system moves along the south coast of B.C. tonight.
This system will produce a lot of snow, which will gradually taper off on Thursday morning, because there is plenty of cold air.
Environment Canada predicts that temperatures will be lower than the seasonal average until December 31st.
The current forecast indicates widespread snow accumulations of 5-10 cm on Vancouver Island. However, it is possible for snow to accumulate locally in the higher parts of Vancouver Island.
Environment Canada predicts that most regions will receive close to 5 cm of snowfall in 3 to 6 hours, during the night hours when the snowfall is most intense.
Environment Canada warns in all three regions that colder temperatures can make roads, walkways, and parking lots slippery and icy.
The agency warns that heavy snow can affect visibility and make it difficult to travel.
The agency warns that there’s an increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Anyone going outside should dress appropriately for the weather and not leave pets outside.
Environment Canada advises everyone driving to have an emergency kit that includes blankets, first aid and other supplies.
