Snowfall expected to begin on Coquihalla Highway Friday, intensify Saturday

KAMLOOPS — A heavy, late season snowfall is expected for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt this weekend.

In a special weather statement online late Thursday (March 30), Environment Canada says snow is expected to start on the stretch of Highway 5 Friday morning and last through until Saturday night. Up to 25 centimetres of snow could fall over the next two days.

The weather agency says it’s due to a robust frontal system sliding down the coast Thursday night. Light to moderate snow is expected for the Coquihalla Highway starting Friday morning, then intensify Friday evening and persist through to Saturday.

However, due to warmer roadway, Environment Canada says significant snow isn’t expected to accumulate until later Friday evening. Freezing levels are expected to remain below the summit level Friday afternoon.

Environment Canada reminds drivers that weather in the mountains can change suddenly and create hazardous driving conditions.