Snow warnings along B.C.-Yukon border as southern B.C. braces for atmospheric river

Environment Canada has issued the first snowfall warnings of the season for regions along the British Columbia–Yukon border, with as much as 20 to 25 centimetres of snow expected in some areas by Saturday.

Forecasters say snow will begin spreading through southwestern Yukon today, covering communities such as Swift River, where up to 25 centimetres could accumulate, while most other regions are expected to receive around 10 centimetres.

By Sunday, an arctic ridge of high pressure is forecast to clear the skies, but temperatures are expected to plunge to -20°C by Monday, marking the season’s first deep freeze.

The “first substantial snow” is also expected south of the border in Fort Nelson, B.C., starting Friday, with up to 20 centimetres of accumulation near the Yukon border and about 10 centimetres elsewhere. Drivers are being warned of poor visibility and slippery conditions due to drifting snow Friday night.

Meanwhile, strong wind warnings have been issued for North Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii, and the North and Central Coasts, with gusts of up to 110 km/h expected.

Environment Canada has also issued alerts for an atmospheric river moving into southern B.C. this weekend, bringing heavy rain to regions including Surrey, Abbotsford, and Metro Vancouver, and possible wet snow along the Trans-Canada Highway near Rogers Pass before temperatures rise and conditions turn to rain.

Emergency officials are urging residents in northern and coastal regions to prepare for changing road conditions and potential power outages, especially in remote areas with limited highway access.