Heavy Snowfall Expected Tuesday

Brace yourself for some winter weather beginning Tuesday.

A low pressure system nearing the Island will generate heavy snowfall amounts and windy conditions over East Vancouver Island.

A winter storm warning is in effect for East Vancouver Island - Courtenay to Campbell River and Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay.

The snow will begin near midday ]with southeast winds of 70 kph, gusting 90 near the Strait of Georgia, before mixing with rain later tonight.

The highest snowfall amounts of 15 to 25 cm will occur over inland areas and the region to the north of Courtenay where the snow will continue until early Wednesday morning.

How you can prepare:

City crews will be working hard to keep communities clear and safe during this winter storm event and remind residents that there are ways you can help too!

•             Please park off the street – both during and after a snowstorm – so plows can clear snow.

•             Whether you’re an owner or renter of residential property, please clear snow and ice from sidewalks...and please, don’t shovel snow onto the road!

•             Contractors cleaning snow from commercial businesses, please do not pile snow on City ROW (Right Of Way) as it causes issues for City crews removing snow off the streets.

•             Owners or tenants of all commercial, industrial, institutional, and multi-unit residential buildings are reminded to clear sidewalks by 10 a.m. on days buildings are open.

•             Try to keep catch basin grates in front of your property clear to help prevent puddles and flooding once the snow melts.

•             In bad weather, use transit whenever possible.

•             Be sure you have good snow tires and an emergency kit when driving.

•             For everyone’s safety, don’t try to pass or follow snow plows closely.

•             City crews work closely with police, fire and ambulance. When necessary, crews clear a residential route for emergency responders. Please help keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

People who need fire, ambulance or police help in an emergency should call 911. If necessary, emergency responders will arrange for assistance with access in snowy conditions.

City staff will update residents on the latest road clearing conditions on the City website and social media and ask residents to avoid calling front desk staff for snow removal updates when possible. This helps staff focus on clearing the roads during this winter storm event.