Environment Canada issues storm warning for Connector, Coquihalla

Photo: DriveBC

Pennask Summit Hwy 97C), about 74 km west of Kelowna, looking east. (elevation: 1717 metres)

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the Okanagan Connector and Coquihalla Highway Tuesday morning.

Environment Canada indicates that snowfall accumulation between 20 and 35 cm could create hazardous driving conditions starting tonight and continuing into early Wednesday.

Between five and 10 are expected to fall in Kelowna at valley bottom.

"A low-pressure system will move onto Vancouver Island today. Light snow will begin this afternoon and intensify tonight before ending early Wednesday afternoon. Wind gusts up to 60 km/h on the Okanagan Connector will give reduced visibility in blowing snow," says Environment Canada's website.

Environment Canada also says that snowfall amounts of 10 to 15 cm is expected in the Fraser Canyon, including Lytton into Wednesday morning as well.

Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult in some locations. Travellers are advised to prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating weather conditions. "Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow," says Environment Canada.