More snow today for highways between Hope and the B.C. Interior

HOPE — Travelling between the B.C. Lower Mainland and the B.C. Interior could be a challenge on this Christmas Eve. Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope through to Kamloops.

While the busy highway is open, the national weather agency is forecasting up to 15 cm of snow to fall on the highway Wednesday (Dec. 24). It says a frontal system from Washington State is moving north into the region. Snow began to fall on the highway early Wednesday morning. It is expected to intensify later in the day.

The B.C. Ministry of Transportation has a Travel Advisory in place for the highway between Hope and Merritt. Authorities warn drivers to slow down and allow for more time to make it to their destination. Motorists should be prepared to deal with any unexpected interruptions by having food, water and blankets in their vehicle.

Plows will be on the highway to clear the snow. Drivers should maintain a safe distance behind them and avoid making passes on the right. Earlier this week, a plow was pushed into a ditch on the Coquihalla when a vehicle tried to pass on the right and made contact with the equipment. Luckily, no one was seriously injured.