Essential Travel Only Advised Due To Snow, Freezing Rain

With snow and freezing rain in the forecast, travel advisories are in place for many areas of B.C., including the Fraser Valley and mid- and south Vancouver Island through to Saturday.

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts temperatures will gradually increase in parts of the province, including Campbell River and the Comox Valley, however, snow, freezing rain and rain for coastal B.C. and the Interior are forecast.

Freezing rain is expected, which could significantly impact road and sidewalk conditions, as well as ice buildup on trees, causing branches to break.

Widespread snow is expected today with freezing levels and temperatures rising along the coast. Extreme cold, arctic outflow, snowfall and winter storm warnings are in effect for most of British Columbia.

Travel advisories have been issued for the Lower Mainland, southern Interior, and southern Vancouver Island. The Ministry of Transportation says drivers should avoid travel unless necessary.

BC Ferries has also issued travel advisories and cancelled several crossings.

Vancouver International airport shut down all incoming and outgoing flights around midnight last night, til later in the day at least.

North Island College has closed all of its campuses and centres for today - that’s Campbell River, the Comox Valley, Port Alberni and Port Hardy.

The Comox Valley Regional District has closed its sports and aquatic centres for the day.

In Campbell River, city crews and equipment are taking care of arterial routes - for public safety, the top priority is to keep these major routes passable. When resources allow, the City will move on to collector and local routes.

The city says there are more than a few ways you can help their crews out - by keeping your car off the street so plows can make necessary passes, keeping sidewalks clear, and trying to ensure catch basin grates in front of your property clear to help prevent puddles and flooding once the snow melts.

People who need fire, ambulance or police help in an emergency should call 911. If necessary, emergency responders will arrange for assistance with access in snowy conditions.

Warming Centres were open in Campbell River and Valley once again, due to the cold. The centre has been activated through to 8am tomorrow (Dec 24) in Courtenay - the Denman Island is now offering daytime service only for its warming centre.

Campbell River staff will update residents on the centre, along with the latest road clearing conditions on the City website and social media channels - and ask residents to avoid calling front desk staff for snow removal updates when possible.