A strong winter storm is forecasted to impact many parts of BC starting tomorrow and lasting until Sunday. We are expecting to experience high winds and heavy rain- with colder parts of the province facing snow.
Here are a few tips on how to prepare:
- Always wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Dressing in layers with a wind and water-resistant outer layer provides flexibility for changing conditions.
- Severe weather can cause power outages. Be prepared for up to one week by developing a household emergency plan and putting together an emergency kit.
- If you come across a downed or damaged power line, assume it is live and a danger. Stay back at least 10 metres (the length of a bus) and call 911 immediately to report.
- Drive for the conditions. There are fewer daylight hours, and blowing snow and rain can further reduce visibility.
- Exercise extra caution when driving on wet and icy roads.
- Drivers should keep an emergency kit in their car consisting of warm clothes, winter footwear, food and water, a shovel, a flashlight, and a fully charged cell phone for emergency calls.
- B.C.’s winter tire regulations are in effect, make sure to have the proper tires on your vehicle.
For information on how to put together an emergency kit, click here. For the most up to date weather alerts check with Environment Canada.
There are also new updates regarding highway repairs:
- Essential travel restrictions on Highway 7 between Hope and Mission have been lifted, helping us return to normal travel activities.
- Highway 1 between Abbotsford and Hope has been fully reopened with 2 separated lanes in each direction. Please limit your non-essential travel on this portion of the highway to help support the movement of goods and services
- Highways 16, 29, and 97 will experience intermittent overnight closures between December 9th and 13th to ensure the safe transport of large commercial vehicles with and vehicles with oversized cargo.
For the most up to date information on road closures visit drivebc.ca.
Sincerely,
