B.C. Highways Could Be Hit By Snowfall During long Weekend

Drivers traveling across British Columbia during the Victoria Day long weekend are being warned to prepare for possible snowfall on several major highways, especially through higher mountain passes in the Interior region. Environment Canada has issued special weather statements for parts of the province, saying colder temperatures and unstable weather conditions could bring snow accumulation to key travel routes between Friday evening and Sunday morning.

According to weather officials, the areas most at risk include the Coquihalla Highway, the Okanagan Connector, and sections of Highway 3 near Allison Pass. Meteorologists say falling snow levels combined with moisture moving across the province may create winter-like driving conditions despite the spring season. Travelers using mountain highways are being advised to slow down, allow extra travel time, and stay updated on road conditions before starting their trips.

Environment Canada said snowfall could affect important summit areas including the Pennask Summit and Coquihalla Summit, where temperatures are expected to remain low enough for snow accumulation during overnight and early morning hours. Forecasters warned that mountain weather can change very quickly, creating sudden visibility problems, slippery roads, and hazardous driving conditions for motorists unfamiliar with B.C.’s interior highways.

The warning comes during one of the busiest travel weekends in British Columbia, when many residents head to camping sites, lakes, and tourist destinations across the province. Long weekend traffic is expected to increase significantly on major routes connecting the Lower Mainland to the Interior. Officials say even light snowfall in higher elevations can quickly lead to traffic delays and dangerous road situations when combined with heavy holiday travel.

Transportation authorities are encouraging drivers to check road and weather updates regularly through DriveBC and Environment Canada before traveling. Emergency supplies, warm clothing, food, water, and properly maintained vehicles are also being recommended for anyone driving through mountain passes. Although winter tire requirements officially ended earlier this month on some routes, experts say drivers should still remain cautious because spring snowstorms are not unusual in B.C.’s higher elevations.

Weather experts say the snowfall risk is connected to a cooler upper-level weather system moving across the Interior region this weekend. While lower elevation communities may mostly see rain showers, mountain highways could receive wet snow and slushy conditions, particularly overnight. Some areas may experience rapidly changing weather patterns within only a few hours.

Authorities have not announced any highway closures so far, but officials say conditions could change depending on snowfall intensity and temperatures. Drivers are being reminded to stay alert, reduce speed during poor weather, and avoid unnecessary risks while traveling through mountain corridors during the holiday weekend.