It may look a bit like winter on Friday in parts of northeastern B.C. and in the southern Interior.
An Environment Canada snowfall warning is in effect for the Muncho Lake Park – Stone Mountain Park area with total amounts of 10 to 15 centimetres expected.
There are also special weather statements in place for other parts of the southern interior and northeast with warnings to anyone heading for high-elevation highways that visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow and drivers should be prepared to adjust to changing road conditions.
Snow is expected to begin Friday as a cold air mass settles over the Interior and is expected to persist through the weekend.
The Kootenay Pass could see a significant amount of snow, with up to 15 centimetres possible by Saturday night.
Smaller amounts are expected on the Rogers Pass, the Coquihalla Highway and the Okanagan connector.
“It’s not unusual to see snow in September … but we are seeing below seasonal temperatures,” said Jonathan Bau, senior meteorologist with Environment Canada.
Areas of the Rocky Mountains along the B.C.-Alberta border, such as the Elk Valley, could also see snow.
In northeastern B.C., Environment Canada says wet snow is likely near the Rockies.
Areas along Highway 97 near Fort Nelson could see 5-10 centimetres. Further south in the Peace River region, a few centimetres of wet snow is possible, as well as on Highway 97 and the Pine Pass west of Chetwynd.
“For any travellers that are expected to take that route, be advised of winter driving conditions in that area,” said Bau.
Environment Canada says drier conditions and seasonal temperatures should return early next week.
B.C.’s winter tire laws don’t kick in until Oct. 1, when winter tires or chains will be required on most routes in the province.
with files from CBC
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