Metro Vancouver is bracing for its first significant winter storm of the season, with the forecast predicting freezing temperatures and snowfall of up to 30 centimeters over the weekend of February 1, 2025. City officials are mobilizing resources to keep the public safe as this weather front approaches, emphasizing preparations for the homeless and other vulnerable populations.
City crews are busy salting sidewalks and streets, prioritizing maintenance on major roadways and routes adjacent to hospitals. Calum Baynham, the City of Vancouver's Associate Director of Street Operations, stated, "We have over 100 vehicles we can deploy for winter maintenance. We have been making sure our salt is at full capacity. Between our various yards, we can stock 3,500 tons of salt. When the snow begins to fall, we will be out there." This proactive stance aims to mitigate the impact of the predicted snow, which is anticipated to begin on Saturday and continue through Sunday.
According to Environment Canada, temperatures could plunge to -5 degrees Celsius, creating dangerous conditions, particularly for those without shelter. To combat the cold, the City has activated multiple emergency shelters, including the Directions Youth Service Centre and Aboriginal Front Door, which will operate throughout the weekend. Nick Wells from the Union Gospel Mission noted, "Even if it doesn’t snow, … we have had community members die of hyperthermia, so any clothing donations are always appreciated." This highlights the serious risks posed by frigid temperatures.
The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is also taking precautions. With up to 30 cm of snow forecasted, spokesperson Paul Michna assured travelers, "Safety is our top priority so even with the best equipment, staff, and intentions, extreme winter weather can cause delays or even cancellations." Travelers are advised to arrive early and check flight statuses to avoid disruptions.
Meanwhile, TransLink, the regional transit authority, is preparing its services for winter conditions, coordinating with municipalities on the snow-clearing of priority routes, spreading anti-icing solutions, and ensuring buses are equipped with top-tier winter tires. Approximately 600 buses now run on Michelin Grip D tires, which are specially rated for severe winter conditions.
Crew members are also making adjustments to SkyTrain operations by deploying de-icer trains and running overnight services to minimize snow buildup on the tracks. With the expected cold snap, TransLink encourages passengers to dress appropriately and plan for extra travel time. "To stay informed, customers can sign up for Transit Alerts, follow TransLink on X, and call Customer Information, available in over 300 languages," the agency stated.
Vancouver's community centers and public libraries will serve as additional warming areas to help those without housing seek refuge from the cold. Preparations for this winter season have already seen the implementation of various measures to keep individuals safe and warm, as the city works closely with BC Housing and other community organizations to address shelter needs.
At the same time, the City reminds residents to be vigilant and proactive about winter safety—from keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice to having emergency supplies stocked. Property owners are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their properties by 10 am the morning after snowfall, with fines for non-compliance ranging from $250 to $750.
With festive events such as the Lunar New Year Parade occurring amid this wintry weather, organizers are urging participants to dress warmly and remain aware of changing conditions. The city highly recommends checking traffic updates and being prepared for delays.
For more information on the city’s winter strategy and available shelters, citizens can visit the City of Vancouver's official website, where real-time updates and alerts will be shared. This commitment to safety and community support reflects the city's dedication to ensuring the well-being of its residents during challenging winter conditions.
Overall, as Metro Vancouver prepares for potential snow and frigid temperatures, cooperation between city services, community organizations, and the public will be key to weathering the storm effectively.