Winter storm warning issued for Howe Sound

Updated January 3, 2019: Environment Canada has ended a winter storm warning for Howe Sound. A rainfall warning is in effect. 

Rain, at times heavy, is expected.

An intense Pacific frontal system will stall over the region tonight and Thursday. The rain over Howe Sound will intensify tonight as the front stalls. Rain will be mixed with snow at times this evening with some local snowfall accumulations possible.

70 to 100 mm of rain is expected by Thursday night before the rain tapers to showers as the front moves inland.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.

If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.

Rainfall warnings are issued when significant rainfall is expected.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. 

More details on the alert are available here.

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An approaching Pacific frontal system will bring a messy winter mix to the Sea to Sky corridor Wednesday, January 2 through Thursday, January 3. Hazardous winter conditions are expected. 

Wet snow is expected to change to heavy rain in Squamish on Wednesday night. Local snowfall accumulations of up to 15 cm are possible. Rainfall amounts are then expected to exceed 50 mm by Thursday afternoon.

Snow is expected to become heavy along the Sea to Sky highway tonight with significant accumulations. The transition from heavy snow to heavy rain will begin near Squamish overnight and progress towards Whistler on Thursday.

Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

Please expect and prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions, and continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm.

More details on the alert are available here.

January 2, 2019