Yesterday’s weather system was expected to deliver shower/ flurries mixes at lower elevations and flurries/snow mixes at higher elevations, with precipitation being heaviest in the northern areas of the region.

The East Kootenay was affected, as expected, overnight and into the early hours this morning, reported Mainroad East Kootenay Contracting Ltd. today (Dec. 8).

“Temperatures in most areas were warm enough that the snowfall remained fairly wet; this causes additional maintenance challenges, as it allows compact snow to form on the highway surface faster than cold, dry snow. Our patrols reported the most precipitation along Highway 3 east of Morrissey, and on Highway 93/95 north of Canal Flats. These areas may presently be affected by compact slush/ snow on the roads. We are advising motorists to drive with caution, especially in these areas,” Mainroad stated in a stakeholder’s advisory.

Mainroad’s forecast includes low surface temperatures, especially in northern areas towards Panorama and Elkford, for the next few days. Motorists should continue to exercise caution while driving, even where compact snow/ slush is not visible, as the cold surface temperatures increase the probability of ice formation.

Mainroad crews will continue applying anti-ice chemicals and/or winter abrasive, and performing snow removal operations where necessary, until road conditions are returned to the acceptable standard.

Lead image: Highway 3 at Morrissey at 12:48 p.m. today (Dec. 8). DriveBC images

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