More snow is set to kick off the weekend for parts of Vancouver Island, with up to 10 centimetres expected to fall Friday night, according to Environment Canada.
The weather agency on Friday morning issued a snowfall warning for eastern sections of the Island from Courtenay to Campbell River, along with a wind warning for Greater Victoria.
Around 10 centimetres of heavy snowfall is expected tonight in higher elevations in the Courtenay and Campbell River areas due to an approaching low-pressure system, Environment Canada says.
“Precipitation will start as rain this afternoon then become mixed with snow at sea level this evening. Over higher elevations, rain will change to snow this evening as precipitation rates increase and snow levels lower,” according to the warning.
While the snow should switch back to rain Saturday morning, rapidly accumulating amounts could make travel difficult in some locations, reducing visibility for drivers, the weather agency warns.
Winds to gust to 90 km/h in Victoria
Meanwhile, on the South Island, the capital region is expected to experience east winds of 70 kilometres per hour gusting to 90 tonight, but easing by morning, Environment Canada says.
“An approaching low-pressure system will remain west of Vancouver Island tonight. Ahead of the low, east winds…will develop late this afternoon near Juan de Fuca Strait,” according to the warning.
High tides are also forecasted.
“In addition to the very high winds, this event will also coincide with local high tides at 8 a.m. on Saturday. The combined force of the two could create a high water level situation along beaches affecting coastal walkways and debris washing further up the shoreline,” the weather agency said.
People are asked to use extra caution, especially when driving, as high winds could cause tree branches to break or lose objects to be tossed, leading to injury or damage.
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