As snow, extreme cold and high winds wreak havoc on B.C., major roadways — and transportation around and out of the province — are being greatly impacted.
Heavy snow blanketed much of the region overnight Tuesday (Dec. 20), covering parts of southern Vancouver Island under about 25 centimetres. Metro Vancouver is coping with as much as 15 centimetres.
As of Tuesday morning, all incoming flights into Vancouver International Airport were cancelled. A number of flights leaving YVR have seen major delays or cancellations.
Ferry sailings have also been cancelled due to the blizzard-like and freezing conditions.
We know this is a challenging experience for those onboard aircraft at YVR or who are waiting for luggage. We apologize for this inconvenience and thank everyone for their patience.
— YVR (@yvrairport) December 20, 2022
In a statement Monday night, the province said that maintenance contractors are “out in full force and are ready to manage any accumulations of snow.”
Contractors are increasing the use of sand to provide better traction, as well.
“It is important for drivers to keep their distance as sand is applied and to not pass winter maintenance equipment,” the province said.
“Drivers who must travel should maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.”
Compact snow with slippery sections across the #LowerMainland. Do not travel unless your vehicle is equipped with winter tires, working head & taillights, wipers, and snow has been cleared off your vehicle. For #BCHwy conditions see https://t.co/MNovn5LekK #shiftintowinter #BC pic.twitter.com/KTK9MJcRCP
— DriveBC (@DriveBC) December 20, 2022
Meanwhile, Interior B.C. is seeing a deep freeze. This includes a low of -46.8 C west of Williams Lane, while the Quesnel area broke a record set 78 years ago when it reached a low of -37.5 C.
The province is under varying snow storm warnings, with the exception of the south Thompson, Shuswap and Slocan Lake areas.
All highways in the province are being impacted by heavy snow.
College closes
On Tuesday, North Island College closed the Comox Valley campus in Courtenay, as well as its Port Alberni and Campbell River locations.
The Comox Valley Regional Transit system expects delays due to recent snowfall. BC Transit asks commuters to allow more time for their journey. If heading out, transit travel tips include:
•If your bus stop is on a hill, do your best to make your way to a stop on more level ground as bus drivers may not be able to stop on a hill.
•Use a light or reflective gear to flag down the bus as visibility may be poor.
•Have your fare/pass ready before boarding the bus to keep things moving and the doors closed sooner.
Shelter spaces
The Comox Valley has a few winter shelter spaces available to escape the elements:
Connect
685 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay
Day: 8:30-11:30 a.m.; 1-6 p.m. Monday to Saturday
Night: 8 p.m.-8 a.m.
10 beds, first come, first serve
(250) 218-3975
Community Cares
St. John the Divine Church
579 5th St. Courtenay
8 p.m.-8 a.m. every day except Monday, 9 p.m.- 8 a.m.
30 mats/beds first come, first serve and drop-in
(250) 334-7552
Pidcock House
632 Pidcock Ave. Courtenay
36-plus beds
Call for availability
24 hours - in before 9
(250) 338-2533
@ashwadhwani
ashley.wadhwani@blackpress.ca
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