‘Yellow’ winter storm heads for Peace region, with up to 25 cm of snow forecast

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Environment Canada has issued a ‘yellow’ snowfall warning for the Peace region, Highway 97 and Pine Pass. 

According to Environment Canada, the area has been issued a ‘yellow’ warning because it is forecasted to receive 15 to 25 cm of snowfall starting midday on Tuesday, March 24th to Wednesday morning, March 25th in northeastern B.C., including Highway 97 east of the Pine Pass. 

That covers Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, Tumbler Ridge and more. 

This comes after a yellow warning was issued for South Peace to receive up to 15 cm of snow on March 20th. 

A ‘yellow’ warning refers to hazardous weather that may cause damage, disruptions or health impact, but these impacts are moderate, localized or short-term.

It said that a deep low-pressure system will move into the B.C. Interior alongside strong easterly or northeasterly winds gusts of up to 60 kilometres per hour. 

The warning forecasts near-zero visibility at times during blowing snow. 

The heavy and blowing snow is expected to ease late in the afternoon on Wednesday, March 25th as the system moves further east across the Prairies. 

Environment Canada said it might become difficult to navigate roadways and walkways, and changes in weather in the mountains can result in hazardous driving conditions. 

The surrounding communities are advised to prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.

Commuters are asked to postpone non-essential travel and outdoor activities until conditions improve. 

People are also advised to adjust to winter driving behaviour and use winter tyres and chains. 

The community is asked to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on X using #BCStorm.