Vancouver Island is bracing for a significant winter storm that will bring two rounds of heavy snow over the next few days.
Environment Canada has issued a winter storm watch, warning residents of potential snowsqualls that could dump up to 20 cm of snow, significantly affecting travel and road conditions.
The first round of snow will begin near midday on Monday and continue through the late afternoon. The snow will primarily affect Greater Victoria, east Vancouver Island, the southern Gulf Islands, and the Malahat highway.
As northwest and southeast winds collide over the Strait of Georgia, snow bands will develop and move onshore. The heaviest snow will likely fall between Comox and Mill Bay.
While Nanaimo, Duncan, and the Saanich Peninsula may see lighter snow, residents of Qualicum Beach to Fanny Bay should expect snowsqualls to persist through the day.
A second, potentially stronger wave of snow is set to move in late Monday night into Tuesday. This round will be driven by outflow winds crossing the southern Strait of Georgia, creating sea-effect snow.
The heaviest snow will target areas between Nanaimo and Victoria, including parts of the southern Gulf Islands. Snowfall will continue into Tuesday night, with accumulation varying depending on the duration of the snow bands and the strength of the outflow winds.
Both rounds of snow will bring sudden reductions in visibility, creating hazardous driving conditions, especially in areas of heavy snowfall. The rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult, particularly on the Malahat and other routes that could experience rapidly changing road conditions.
The region’s mountainous areas are expected to experience particularly treacherous conditions, with poor visibility and slick roads.
The snow is expected to cause disruptions in transportation, potentially delaying commutes and affecting rush hour traffic in urban areas. Motorists are urged to stay updated with weather warnings, as conditions can change suddenly.
Snowfall accumulation will vary across the island, depending on the duration of each snow band’s presence. While some areas may see a few centimeters, others could receive much more if a heavy band of snow lingers longer.
Environment Canada has noted uncertainty around the strength of the outflow winds, which will affect the total snowfall accumulation for the second round. Warnings and updates will be issued closer to the event as the situation develops.
For those planning to travel, it is highly recommended to prepare for challenging conditions and to monitor local weather updates for any advisories or warnings. Stay safe and stay informed as Vancouver Island faces a wintry week ahead.
