Environment Canada has issued snow and cold weather warnings for parts of Vancouver Island and the southern Gulf Islands.
There are multiple weather warnings issued for East Vancouver Island. Snow is expected to last until Sunday on the Malahat Highway, Courtenay to Campbell River, Duncan to Nanaimo, Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay.
These areas are expected to see between 5 cm to 15 cm of snow. Cooler air from B.C.’s interior is expected to make its way over these parts of the island lowering the temperatures well below freezing.
Environment Canada says temperatures are expected to be lower than the seasonal average through to the end of December.
In the Courtenay to Campbell River area, wind chill temperatures are expected to reach below minus 20.
A weather warning issued for inland Vancouver Island and for the Southern Gulf Islands also warns of snowfall and colder temperatures.
Snow is expected to continue until the end of Sunday.
Temperatures in this area are also expected to remain below the seasonal average until the end of December.
In all three regions, Environment Canada warns that colder temperatures can cause highways, roads, walkways and parking lots to become slippery and icy.
The agency also warns that there is an increased risk of hypothermia or frostbite, so anyone going outdoors should dress appropriately for the weather, and not leave pets outside in the cold.
Environment Canada advises anyone driving to ensure they have an emergency kit, including blankets and a first aid kit.
Laura Brougham
