A winter storm warning has been issued for Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, as residents prepare for significant snowfall over the first weekend of February. According to Environment Canada, the region will face the impact of arctic air colliding with moist Pacific systems, leading to heavy snow and cold temperatures.
Environment Canada issued the first special weather statements on Saturday, February 1, 2025, highlighting the potential for slippery roads and reduced visibility across the area. "A frontal system is bringing snow to the Greater Victoria region this morning. The snow will ease this afternoon. Snowfall amounts of 5 cm are expected by this evening," stated officials from Environment Canada.
For those traveling, the weather forecasts include heavy flurries and cold conditions impacting visibility, particularly at higher elevations. The snowfall could reach up to 30 cm or more over the weekend, which will considerably affect local driving conditions. Environment Canada warned of sudden visibility changes, stating, "Be advised for sudden reduction in visibility in convective flurries if travelling around the South Coast. Accumulating snow is likely as well, but amounts vary depending on where flurries develop.”
On Saturday morning, significant weather patterns were already visible on various weather cameras across the region, with Port Alberni and Tofino receiving noticeable snow accumulation. The cold front is expected to peak on Sunday night, providing what could be the first substantial snowfall of the new year.
Kristi Gordon, senior meteorologist at Global BC, explained, "We are expecting arctic air to shift in, but it will slowly happen through the weekend, so Saturday and Sunday will flip-flop between high temperatures during the day where we will just see showers, whereas at night we have the potential for flurries.”
The City of Vancouver has mobilized its resources to prepare for the winter weather. Street operations director Calum Baynham noted their focus would be on maintaining main roads, bus routes, and major bridges. TransLink is also taking precautions, fitting 600 buses with new deep-tread tires and urging commuters to allow for extra travel time due to potential delays caused by road conditions.
Meanwhile, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has also issued warnings to travelers about the potential impact of the storm on air travel. Spokesperson Paul Michna emphasized the importance of giving oneself extra travel time to the airport and checking with airlines for the latest information. "Safety is our top priority so even with the best equipment, staff, and intentions, extreme winter weather can cause delays or even cancellations," Michna remarked. YVR’s team is preparing for the storm with over 100 snow removal pieces of equipment ready for operations.
Residents and travelers are advised to check weather forecasts regularly and prepare their vehicles for winter driving conditions. The provincial government has urged drivers to be cautious and have winter-ready vehicles before hitting the road. Emergency shelters are prepared to accommodate those affected by the cold, offering warm beverages and bedding.
The winter storm is expected to bring challenging conditions, highlighting the need for preparedness among residents. With temperatures predicted to drop to -10 C by the following week, the weather will serve as a reminder of the significant winter environment across this beautiful region of British Columbia.