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Highways remain locked in winter
Snowfall of 12-15 cm over the last 12 hours has created compact snow on all roads and highways in the East Kootenay, reports Mainroad East Kootenay.
Snowfall is continuing and expected to continue sporadically for the next 24 hours, with five to eight cm possible. Mainroad crews and equipment are plowing and sanding but expect severe winter driving conditions throughout the area.
The weather is forecasted to clear with a warming trend by midweek, with the possibility of temperatures that will allow a chloride de-icing treatment.
For the next 36 hours expect blowing snow with limited visibility at times, and a de-icing application may create slushy conditions later in the week as the melt take place, Mainroad said.
Motorists are reminder to make sure windshield wipers are in good condition and to carry plenty of washer fluid. In addition, expect increased wildlife presence near roads and highways.
Environment Canada’s forecast shows clearing and sunny conditions for Wednesday, Jan. 11 to Friday, Jan. 13, with daytime highs of -12 to -13 C and nighttime lows from -16 to -26 C, depending on elevation. Conditions are expected to get warmer by Saturday with daytime highs of -7.
Mainroad reminds drivers that winter operations priority is on numbered highways and school bus routes, with residential roads to follow.
“The recent snowfall has also increased the avalanche hazard, so travelers are advised to check conditions on DriveBC before setting out on a trip. Motorists should slow down, increase following distances and be alert for road hazards and rapidly changing conditions. Motorists are also reminded that vehicles should be cleaned of snow before setting out on the highway, for the safety of both themselves and other motorists,” Mainroad stated in a media release.
Mainroad East Kootenay Contracting’s 24-hour hotline is 1-800-665-4929. Please report road hazards and unsafe conditions. This hotline is used to update DriveBC, dispatch additional personnel and record public communication as required.
Lead image: The Highway 95A and Highway 93/95 Junction at Wasa – Tata Creek. DriveBC images
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