Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for the Elk Valley and nearby passes (Kootenay and Rogers) for Thursday, March 12.

Up to 25 to 35 cm of snow is expected in the Elk Valley and Kootenay Pass with up to 25 cm expected in Rogers Pass.

“A low pressure system crossing the southern interior tonight will bring heavy flurries, local blowing snow and strong winds to the Elk Valley region. Snow will intensify this evening as the low approaches the area. As a sharp cold front associated with this low passes over the area overnight, snowfall will intensify and winds will rise with strong wind gusts up to 70 km/h resulting in reduced visibility in blowing snow,” Environment Canada forecasted.

“Conditions will improve Thursday morning but gusty winds and scattered flurries will prevail,” bringing up to 35 cm of snow by Thursday morning.

Hazardous winter conditions are expected for Highway 3 – Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass from today to tomorrow morning with heavy snowfall up to 35 cm.

Drivers can expect near zero visibility in blowing snow with strong southwest wind gusts to 80 km/h, with snow intensifying this afternoon to Thursday morning.

Environment Canada warns of sudden reduction in visibility due to blowing snow and difficult driving conditions due to strong gusty winds, especially high profile vehicles.

“As a sharp cold front associated with this low passes over the area overnight, snowfall will intensify and winds will rise with strong wind gusts up to 80 km/h resulting in near zero visibility in blowing snow,” Environment Canada said.

“The snow level will also fluctuate depending on the rate of snowfall and strength of the southwest winds. Conditions will slightly improve Thursday morning but gusty winds and flurries will continue to give periods of blowing snow. Travel will likely be challenging. Visibility will likely be suddenly reduced to near zero at times.”

Over this same period of time, a long period of snowfall with total amounts of 15 to 25 cm is expected in Rogers Pass.

Mainroad East Kootenay Contracting forecasts light snowfall with up to one cm for today and a rain/snow mix for this evening in the Cranbrook, Kimberley and South Country areas. Snowfall is expected to continue throughout the week and going into the weekend, with Saturday having up to four cm of snowfall.

Light snowfall is forecasted in the Columbia Valley with up to four cm forecasted by tonight, with light rain expected for this afternoon. Snowfall is expected to continue throughout the week and continuing into the weekend with light snow accumulations.

“Weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions. Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Allow extra time for travel,” environment Canada reminded.

The site shiftintowinter.ca reminds drivers to know before you go.

Adjust to winter driving behaviour and use winter tires and chains. Winter Storm Warnings are issued when multiple types of severe winter weather (such as snow, freezing rain, wind and rain) are expected or occurring. Road conditions are available at drivebc.ca.

Drivers are reminded to leave a safe following distance behind plow trucks.

e-KNOW file photos

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