A light fall of wet snow is challenging motorists in many parts of Vancouver Island today.
The white stuff, which had been the subject of weather warnings, followed a Monday of sunshine and brilliant blue sky in the area.
The Cowichan Valley appeared ready, and at least one emergency service truck was seen heading west along Cowichan Lake Road, most likely to deal with the last few places where trees were leaning against cable lines.
There was a light dusting of snow of snow sticking to the ground on Highway 18 and Cowichan Lake Road, and motorists should slow down for conditions.
In the city of Duncan itself, the roads were bare and wet.
Snow is also falling in Nanaimo and some of it is expected to stick.
Environment Canada updated its snowfall warning early Tuesday morning, now saying about five centimetres is expected to fall near the east coast of Vancouver Island and 10-20cm inland.
“Snow is expected to continue through the day as snow levels remain near sea level, though near the water snow may become mixed with rain in the afternoon,” the warning notes. “Gradual warming through tonight will cause snow to change to rain by Wednesday morning.”
In the northern half of the Island, Mainroad crews will be performing snow removal operations on all service area highways (from the Comox Valley to Port Hardy) until the event passes, roadways are clear and back to normal.
Mainroad’s 24-hour communications and dispatch office will pass on all observations and concerns to its crews when contacted.
Anyone who observes an area in need of attention is urged to call 1-877-215-7122.
Environment Canada advises that motorists be prepared to adjust their driving to road conditions.
Mainroad, which services highways in the south as well, advised Tuesday that “we may see a bit of winter weather” in the mid Island, noting in particular the Parksville-Cook Creek area and the hump on Highway 4 in the Port Alberni area, “though all areas may be affected.”
According to the contractor, crews are applying anti-icing chemical where required.
“Motorists should leave extra time to get to their destination and expect winter driving conditions, including slippery sections and slushy areas,” the advisory noted.
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