Dig out those shovels — the promised flurries have become steady snowfall in New Westminster.
Environment Canada has issued an updated special weather statement for Metro Vancouver, including New West and Burnaby, in time for the afternoon commute.
New Westminster saw 20-plus centimetres of snow accumulate in the weekend snowfall that began late Saturday afternoon and continued overnight — though much of it melted during the day Sunday as the sun came out and temperatures rose.
Although a repeat of that level of snowfall isn't expected, Environment Canada says areas around the region will see continued snowfall as a small-scale low-pressure system causes bands of flurries to move across the Lower Mainland overnight and into Tuesday morning.
"The precipitation will be convective, and snowfall amounts will be highly variable by location. In addition, elevation and proximity to the ocean will affect snowfall amounts," its special weather statement says. "Most locations can expect 2 to 4 cm. Some locations may receive none, while others receive near 10 cm."
Environment Canada warns that the morning commute will likely be affected for people in the Lower Mainland.
The B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is warning drivers to allow extra time to get around. In a Monday afternoon press release, the ministry reminds commuters that:
- Drivers should be aware that provincial bridges and highways may be closed on short notice to prioritize driver and passenger safety.
- Drivers are reminded to avoid all unnecessary travel when weather conditions are poor, prepare for delays and longer commutes, and ensure their vehicles are properly equipped with winter tires.
- Drivers can assist maintenance crews by providing space for them on highways and moving over safely when they see a vehicle with an amber light approaching. This will allow crews to improve road conditions to reduce hazards for drivers.
The snow is expected to turn into mixed precipitation by Wednesday, followed by light rain and showers Thursday and Friday to take us into the weekend.
But, then again, it's just about March — and as we've already seen, things can change quickly on the weather front.
📢 SOUND OFF: Were you affected by the weekend snowfall? Do you like snow or are you eager for spring? Was the city well prepared for the recent storm? If you have thoughts to share, don't be shy: Send us a letter.
Follow Julie MacLellan on Twitter @juliemaclellan.
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