As snowfall continues to blanket the region, traffic has been severely impacted on Vancouver Island, particularly along the Trans-Canada Highway.
RCMP reported significant delays earlier today, with heavy traffic building up on the northbound lanes from 6 Mile Road all the way down to Helmcken Road in View Royal.
The ongoing snowstorm has caused treacherous conditions on the roadways, and motorists are urged to drive with caution.
Snowfall warnings remain in effect for the area, with weather experts forecasting up to 20 cm of snow could accumulate over the next several hours.
The alert emphasizes that the heavy snow could create hazardous travel conditions, especially on major highways and in higher elevations. Drivers should be prepared for slick and slippery roads and expect slower-than-usual travel times.
Related: Here’s a list of live webcams showing current road conditions on Vancouver Island
In light of these conditions, West Shore RCMP took to X at 12:46 p.m. Monday, stating the Trans-Canada Highway is currently closed between the Thetis Lake on-ramp and Millstream Road to allow crews to clear the snow.
The highway is expected to reopen once snow removal operations are complete, which could take approximately an hour.
Motorists are encouraged to find alternate routes during this time.
With the snow continuing to fall, authorities are urging everyone to stay up to date with weather reports and road conditions. Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel, if possible, and ensure their vehicles are equipped with appropriate winter tires and emergency supplies.
In a media release, Saanich Police issued a safety advisory due to consistent ice and snow, resulting in very poor driving conditions. They urge everyone to carefully consider whether travel is necessary and to stay home if possible.
For those who must travel, Saanich Police stress the importance of having the correct winter equipment, such as snow tires.
In Nanaimo, several roadways were impacted by the snowfall resulting in multiple fender benders and vehicles in ditches, a common outcome of motorists driving too quickly for the road conditions and failing to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
“Often these incidents are the result of motorists travelling too fast for road conditions and not maintaining sufficient space between the vehicle ahead of them,” said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
Stay safe and drive carefully as we navigate these winter weather conditions, we have compiled a list of highway cams for you to check before heading out.
