Although Victoria experienced mild weather on Friday night with warmer temperatures and clear skies, a system moved in overnight as predicted, prompting Environment Canada to issue a snowfall warning in the early hours.
Snow began falling around 4 a.m. Saturday, affecting Greater Victoria.
According to the warning, a frontal system is bringing snow to the region this morning, with snowfall expected to ease by this afternoon. Up to 5 cm of snow is forecast to accumulate by evening.
The statement warns that heavy snow may reduce visibility at times when commuting.
In addition to the snowfall warning, a special weather statement remains in effect for Vancouver Island, the Southern Gulf Islands, Sunshine Coast, Howe Sound, Whistler, Metro Vancouver, and the Fraser Valley, warning of snow, blowing snow, and Arctic outflow conditions.
A wintry mix of weather is expected to impact the south coast of BC over the next several days.
This weekend, heavy flurries and cold temperatures are forecast as Arctic air moves into the region, and an upper low brings moisture. Travellers should be aware of sudden reductions in visibility due to convective flurries.
Snow accumulations are uncertain and will depend on where the flurries develop, but accumulating snow is likely in many areas.
Next week, very cold and dry air is expected to settle over the South Coast, with outflow conditions from an Arctic ridge of high pressure.
Temperatures are expected to be 5 to 8 degrees Celsius below seasonal. Blowing snow is possible through the Fraser Valley with recent snowfall.
Snow accumulation is expected over southern Vancouver Island, from Qualicum Beach to the Saanich Peninsula. Strong outflow winds will bring cold wind chills.
