Environment Canada has issued a wind warning for parts of Metro Vancouver and a snow warning remains in effect.
The department notes that, "Strong winds that may cause damage are expected or occurring," due to an intense Pacific low that will move across the Lower Mainland on Jan. 10. Strong southeasterly winds of 70 km/h gusting 90 km/h near the water will develop over the morning.
The winds are expected to drop below warning criteria this afternoon. However, they will remain brisk until late this evening. Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage.
The wind warning is in effect for:
- Metro Vancouver - southeast including Surrey and Langley
- Metro Vancouver - southwest including Richmond and Delta
First issued on Jan. 9 around 4 p.m., a snowfall warning remains in effect for Metro Vancouver. The warning notes that an intense Pacific frontal system is producing snow over Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley this morning.
Total snowfall acmounts will be dependent on elevation and proximity to the water. The higher elevations of West and North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Surrey and Maple Ridge will get 15 to 25 cm of snowfall by late morning.
The City of Vancouver and Burnaby are expected to receive 10 to 15 cm total.
At low elevations and near the Strait of Georgia (for example, Richmond) accumulations will likely be up to 5 cm, while the Fraser Valley will see 5 to 15 cm total accumulation by early afternoon.
A snowfall warning is in effect for:
- Metro Vancouver - central including the City of Vancouver Burnaby and New Westminster
- Metro Vancouver - North Shore including West Vancouver and North Vancouver
- Metro Vancouver - northeast including Coquitlam and Maple Ridge
- Metro Vancouver - southeast including Surrey and Langley
Environment Canada advises that you should prepare to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. There may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas.
