Air travel in northwestern British Columbia could face significant disruption as WestJet Encore pilots have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a strike mandate, with potential strikes impacting flights as soon as April 17. This move comes after contract negotiations concerning pay, schedules, and career progression reached a stalemate, according to the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). The vote saw 97 per cent of participating pilots in support of the strike action, with an 89 per cent turnout.

The Terrace-Kitimat Northwest Regional Airport, a crucial hub for the region, stands to be directly affected by the strike. This potential disruption would impact not only WestJet Encore flights in Terrace but also flights to and from a wide range of destinations across British Columbia, including Abbotsford, Comox, Fort St. John, Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, Penticton, Prince George, Vancouver, and Victoria.

Carin Kenny, who leads the union's WestJet Encore group, highlighted the pilots' frustration in comments to The Canadian Press, noting the critical role these negotiations play in addressing the concerns of the pilots, who are considered the lowest-paid regional pilots in Canada. "What that signals to me is that our pilots are frustrated."

The looming strike could initiate as soon as the union leadership files a formal strike notice, which can occur 72 hours after a 21-day cooling-off period that began following the end of federal conciliation efforts last week. This timeline places the earliest possible start date for the strike on April 17, casting uncertainty over travel plans for many in the region.

READ MORE: Helicopter crash north of Terrace claims 3 lives, prompts emergency response

WestJet's President Diederik Pen has expressed a commitment to reaching an agreement that addresses the pilots' concerns while maintaining the competitiveness and sustainability of the airline in a statement to The Canadian Press. "We are steadfast in our commitment to reach an agreement with ALPA that addresses the unique concerns of our Encore pilots, is competitive within Canada's airline industry and ensures we have a long-term sustainable future so that we can continue to operate critical air service for millions of Canadians, while providing meaningful employment for thousands at the WestJet Group."

WestJet narrowly averted a strike last year after talks with a different set of pilots came down to the wire, prompting the carrier to cancel more than 230 flights in preparation for job action before a deal was reached hours ahead of the walkout deadline.

The collective deadline with pilots at WestJet and its now-shut Swoop subsidiary granted a 24 per cent pay increase over four years. That agreement did not include WestJet Encore.

WestJet Encore operates roughly 35 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft throughout its regional network, including to and from the Terrace-Kitimat Northwest Regional Airport.

With files from The Canadian Press

The Regional-District of Kitimat-Stikine is running a survey to establish the levels of support for a small tax increase to fund Heritage Park Museum.

The proposed increase would affect approximately 5,000 people.

Currently, operational funding for Heritage Park Museum comes from the City of Terrace, as well as residents in Electoral Area E, the community of Thornhill, and part of Electoral Area C, which is defined in the survey as “an area westerly to the Exstew River, southerly to the south end of Lakelse Lake, easterly including Chimdemash area to Ste. Croix Creek, and northerly to Goat Creek and the south end of Kitsumkalum Lake.” However, the map in the supporting documents only shows a series of ellipses instead of labels.

“$40,000 is the maximum amount that the Regional-District of Kitimat-Stikine will collect and contribute towards the funding of Heritage Park Museum,” said Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Communications Coordinator Marta Nelson. “A property with a net taxable value of $300,000 would pay $8.18 per year.”

Some residents, especially those in Thornhill, are skeptical of how the process is being conducted and frustrated by the limited advertising the Regional-District of Kitimat-Stikine has done to promote the survey.

Thornhill resident and regular council attendee Claudette Sandecki expresses even though the increase is only $8 “it’s the principle of the thing” that frustrates her.

Sandecki adds that the only notice she’s seen was a post on the Regional-District of Kitimat-Stikine’s website, noting that some residents do not have internet access.

If 10 per cent of residents oppose the increase, the issue will go to a referendum.

The survey can be found here and will run until March 31 at 4:00 p.m.

A report of an unresponsive man at a Thornhill residence has led the Terrace RCMP to initiate a suspicious death investigation, with the North District Major Crime Unit (NDMCU) now spearheading the probe.

In the early hours of Tuesday, Terrace RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive man at a residence in the 3700 block of Mueller Avenue in Thornhill. Frontline officers discovered a deceased man inside the home, triggering an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

READ MORE: UPDATE: Helicopter crash north of Terrace claims 3 lives, prompts emergency response

In a press release Thursday, Terrace RCMP announced the involvement of the NDMCU. The unit, which is called when deaths are suspicious, and murder can’t be ruled out, is working closely with local police and the BC Coroners Service.

Authorities have assured the public that this appears to be an isolated incident, with no perceived ongoing risk to community safety. However, residents can expect a noticeable increase in police activity in the area as detectives continue their work over the coming days.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to come forward and contact Terrace RCMP at (250) 638-7400.

Environment Canada issued a winter storm warning for Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat on Wednesday morning, forecasting snowfall beginning today and intensifying through Thursday morning and into Friday afternoon due to a strong low pressure system approaching British Columbia’s North Coast.

Residents of Terrace and Thornhill are warned to expect between 20 and 30 centimetres of snow, while Kitimat could see between 25 and 40 centimetres. Environment Canada’s advisory details that periods of snow will start today, with snowfall intensifying late Thursday morning when a warm front collides with the coastline. "The heaviest snowfall is expected Thursday night through Friday morning, with accumulations of 20 to 30 cm for Terrace and Stewart, and up to 40 cm for Kitimat. Snowfall will taper off to a few flurries or mixed precipitation by Friday afternoon," the advisory states.

The weather authority also highlighted potential challenges due to temperatures hovering around the freezing mark, suggesting that "snowfall accumulation may be highly variable and dependent on precipitation rate and temperature."

READ MORE: PHOTOS: Terrace, Thornhill and Kitimat experience first snowfall of the season

Environment Canada advises the public to "consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve" and urges caution for those who need to walk or drive in the affected areas.

The latest weather forecast for Terrace, issued at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, anticipates near-freezing temperatures during the storm, with today's high reaching -4 degrees Celsius under cloudy skies and a few flurries beginning late afternoon. Tonight, the temperature is expected to remain at -4 degrees Celsius with an additional two to four centimetres of snow and winds reaching up to 15 kilometres per hour, creating a wind chill near -6 degrees Celsius.

Thursday is expected to bring a high of zero degrees Celsius, with snowfall anticipated to be at least five centimetres, increasing significantly into the evening. The weather agency expects the heaviest snowfall from the storm to occur during this period. By Friday, the temperature is forecast to rise slightly to one degree Celsius, but snowy conditions are expected to continue, with an evening low of zero degrees Celsius.

Environment Canada issues winter storm warnings when more than 25 centimetres of snow falls in a 24 hours period, or more than 20 centimetres of snow — combined with freezing rain, strong winds, blowing snow and/or extreme cold — occurs over a 24 hour period.

A severe snowstorm continues to hammer Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat on Tuesday, causing significant travel disruptions across the region. DriveBC has issued multiple warnings for drivers, including of a vehicle recovery incident on Hwy 16 that is causing delays in both directions between the Chimdemash Loop and West - Binwall for a stretch of 1.9 kilometres, with traffic being directed to alternate through a single lane.

The provincial agency, in a series of weather advisory notices posted on its website, alerted motorists of "limited visibility with snow" impacting travel between the Selma Island area on Hwy 16 West and Doreen on Hwy 16 East. Conditions on Hwy 37 South between Nalabila Blvd. and Terrace for 57.8 kilometres are also treacherous, with "limited visibility due to blowing snow" creating hazardous driving conditions.

Furthermore, DriveBC has issued warnings for Hwy 113, indicating limited visibility between Gingolx and Terrace. The advisory specifically cautions drivers to be vigilant for "slippery sections" along the route.

READ MORE: Environment Canada issues snowfall warning for B.C.'s North Coast

In Terrace, dynamic message signs are informing drivers of the perilous road conditions. Westbound on Hwy 16, just west of Griffith St., a sign broadcasts warnings of blowing snow, limited visibility, compact snow, and slippery sections. Similarly, southbound on Hwy 37 South at Churchill Dr. and Krumm Ave., another sign alerts commuters to blowing snow, limited visibility, and the risk of slippery sections.

The storm has significantly reduced visibility in Terrace to less than 1.6 kilometres, with sustained winds exceeding 20 kilometres per hour and gusts reaching up to 40 kilometres per hour. These conditions have notably impaired visibility on the roads, leading to slower commute times this morning. The temperature in Terrace hovered around -10 degrees Celsius in the morning, with an expected slight increase to -6 degrees Celsius by the evening and overnight.

Environment Canada has forecasted a temporary reprieve with temperatures expected to rise to -1 degrees Celsius tomorrow before dropping back to -6 degrees Celsius in the evening and overnight. More snow is anticipated to accompany the temperature changes.

According to Environment Canada, the Pacific weather system causing the current disruptions across B.C.'s North Coast is expected to move on by tomorrow morning. The agency's latest snowfall warning, updated just after 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, advises residents and travellers to stay informed on weather updates as the situation evolves.

Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning for British Columbia's North Coast, including the communities of Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat, on Monday afternoon, with the forecast predicting significant snowfall from Tuesday morning through to Wednesday morning.

The national weather agency indicated that a potent Pacific weather system is set to impact the north coast inland sections, leading to substantial snow accumulation.

"A Pacific weather system will bring a snowstorm to the north coast inland sections starting Tuesday morning," Environment Canada said in the weather advisory.

The weather agency said Terrace is expected to receive 10 to 15 centimetres of snow, while Kitimat could see 10 to 20 centimetres. Further northwest of Terrace, Environment Canada expects Stewart to be hardest hit, with 15 to 25 centimetres of snow expected when all is said and done.

READ MORE: PHOTOS: Terrace, Thornhill and Kitimat experience first snowfall of the season

The impending snowfall is anticipated to pose challenges for road navigation in the region.

"Roads may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow," Environment Canada said.

Environment Canada said that reduced visibility, attributed to "northerly outflow winds giving local blowing snow conditions," could further complicate travel and outdoor activities for at least 24 hours.

The advisory indicates that snowfall is expected to ease by Wednesday morning, offering a reprieve from the inclement weather conditions.

Environment Canada issues snowfall warnings when 15 centimetres of snow or more falls within 12 hours or less. So far this winter, the weather agency has issued a snowfall warning for Terrace, Thornhill and Kitimat at least three times.

The annual Guns and Hoses Hockey game is a beloved community tradition in Kitimat. Last year, the firefighters got a taste of victory, and the event raised around $10,000 for the KidSport charity. KidSport helps provide financial support to local families and allows kids to participate in their favourite sports. This is the second year the game has gone ahead since the pandemic. The game last night was played at the Tamitik arena in Kitimat.

The Guns scored the first goal of the evening, followed quickly by a goal from #34, Jamie Waikta of the Hoses. The Guns scored two more goals, and by the end of the first period, the score was 3 to 1 in favour of the Guns.

The adorable Timbits hockey players showed off their skills during the break between the first and second periods.

Then the first goal of the second period was scored by Firefighter #23 Tayden Fowler-McNab, assisted by #42 Jordan Venditelli from Prince Rupert.

The Guns then scored two back-to-back goals from #18 Lucas Aiken of RTA Securiguard, assisted by #96 Jordan Sheasgreen, also from RTA. Then a hat trick from #18, assisted again by #96. The score at the end of the second period was 5 to 3 for the Guns.

There were two impressive live figure skating demonstrations from Snow Valley Skating Club, followed by the airplane toss during the second intermission.

Then the first goal of the third period was scored by firefighter #7 Brandon Maag, assisted by #23 and #42.

This was quickly followed by another goal for the Guns, scored again by #18.

Then another goal for the Guns, scored by #88 Constable James Fennema.

Emotions were running high during the last five minutes of the game. One of the Hoses screamed at the Guns, “[Expletive] off! Go back to the zoo, you [expletive] giraffe,” while holding a child. Other children who were nearby heard this and laughed.

The game ended shortly after #7 Conservation Officer Michael Geuze scored an unassisted goal, bringing the score to 4-7 for the Guns.

“It was a good game; wrong team won but that’s alright, that’s the way it goes sometimes. At the end of the day, it’s not about the game, it’s about the charity,” said Trent Bossence, the Kitimat Fire Chief.

Many community members helped make the event a success. From the cadets enthusiastically encouraging donations, to the intermission performances and all of the hardworking volunteers and venue staff, it was a fantastic showcase of community engagement and a fun demonstration of sportsmanship and quality gameplay from the town’s heroes.

Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for the B.C. North Coast and inland regions on Friday afternoon, alerting residents to significant snow accumulations anticipated from a Pacific weather system.

Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat are advised to prepare for a substantial snow event expected to intensify this evening. Originating from the Pacific, this weather system is forecasted to bring heavy snowfall to these communities, significantly impacting travel as rush hour in the area begins.

Kitimat and Stewart are braced for a notable snow dump, with accumulations expected to reach at least 15 centimetres by Saturday morning. Meanwhile, Terrace and adjacent inland areas are forecasted to see snow accumulations ranging from five to 15 centimetres. The most intense snowfall is slated for tonight as the main thrust of the weather system makes its presence felt.

READ MORE: PHOTOS: Terrace, Thornhill and Kitimat experience first snowfall of the season

Improvements in weather conditions are expected by Saturday morning, although Environment Canada warns of another system potentially arriving on Sunday.

With the accumulating snow poised to complicate travel, rendering highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots difficult to navigate, Environment Canada urges those in the impacted areas to proceed with caution. Residents and travellers are advised to adjust their driving to the evolving road conditions, staying vigilant to ensure safety during this significant weather event.

Skeena MLA Ellis Ross recently announced his candidacy to run under the federal Conservative banner in the next election scheduled on or before October 2025.

In an exclusive interview with The Skeena Reporter, Ross offered insights into his motivations to leave BC United and run for the Conservatives, as well as some of the policy positions that he would zero-in on, assuming he’s elected as the Member of Parliament for Skeena–Bulkley Valley.

Ross admires federal Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre’s commitment to “stick to the basics” of governance. Ross defines the short but ambitious list of governmental basics as “fiscal responsibility, crime, and drugs."

Ellis, who has openly discussed his past struggles with alcoholism, emphasized his personal connection of his campaign against drug addiction.

“The toughest part for me in this drug crisis is trying to keep my emotions out of it,” Ross said. "I’ve been advised a couple times being an MLA to keep my emotions in check because I get angry and I have a tough time hiding my anger on the issue."

Ross added that Poilievre’s statements on the drug crisis in Canada were part of the reason why he decided to run under the Conservative banner.

For Ross, the provincial and federal government’s efforts to decriminalize possession of small amounts of drugs in British Columbia have been difficult for him to reconcile.

During the interview, Ross contradicted himself a number of times on the issue of drug decriminalization. In comments made to another media outlet last year, Ross had indicated he supported decriminalization, but that has changed.

While Ross acknowledges the need for treatment, he said he would prioritize re-criminalizing possession of small amount of drugs.

READ MORE: Skeena MLA Ellis Ross to run in Skeena–Bulkley Valley for Conservatives in next federal election

Later in the interview, when asked about whether it would do more good to focus on re-criminalizing possession of drugs, or treatment, Ross declared he would focus on both.

Ross said he supports the Portuguese model, but says it hasn't been implemented fully. Despite his personal connection to the issue, Ross has been a vocal critic of decriminalization, arguing for a more punitive approach towards drug crimes.

Ross's vision for addressing the drug crisis in British Columbia involves looking at various models, including those of Portugal and Alberta. (In Portugal, possession of small amount of drugs is decriminalized, leading to “drug courts” where residents fined for possession are forced to either get treatment, or pay a fine. Alberta’s model involves the criminal justice system and also treatment on-demand.)

"Portugal came up with this whole different model that I believe was the correct one. … We haven’t done that in BC," Ross remarked, highlighting his interest in a model that combines healthcare innovation with stringent law enforcement.

The Portuguese model has a significantly better track record than Alberta. There are far fewer drug-related deaths, even accounting for Portugal’s much larger population. According to Statista, drug overdose deaths in Portugal peaked at 72 in 2019. However, data past 2020 is not available. Comparatively, a report from the RCMP says that Alberta’s death toll for opioids climbed to 1,262 in 2023, from January to August.

Ross also made the point to zero-in on the challenge of integrating treatment centres with the private sector and First Nations, but didn’t explain his plan to prevent the private sector from exploiting addiction for profit.

"There is a need for a program that works hand in hand with the private sector, along with First Nations, on how to deal with this once and for all," Ross said.

Ross acknowledged the nuanced debate surrounding decriminalization by saying that "I think people have truly misunderstood what decriminalization actually means.” He suggested that a return to criminalization could serve as a deterrent to use, despite potentially complicating access to treatment.

In a candid moment, Ross expressed doubts about the immediate effectiveness of his approach, recognizing the enduring nature of the drug crisis.

"It’s probably not going to work for a long time. … This drug war has been going on for decades, but now we’ve got this problem to the point where no one seems to have an answer."

A helicopter belonging to Northern Escape Heli-Skiing crashed in a remote mountainous area 50 kilometres northwest of Terrace on Monday, prompting a swift emergency response and leading to the deaths of three individuals and four injuries, Terrace RCMP confirmed on Tuesday.

The crash occurred during a heli-skiing operation involving three helicopters with numerous passengers. Terrace RCMP revealed that the accident involved one of these helicopters, which had lost communication before its crash site was located in a snowfield. Seven passengers were aboard the helicopter.

In the wake of the crash, the remaining two helicopters successfully evacuated the other four passengers from the scene. These individuals were then taken into the care of BC Ambulance Service and Terrace Fire Rescue, and subsequently hospitalized, Terrace RCMP said in a statement.

Eryn Collins, a spokesperson for Northern Health, told The Skeena Reporter that the four people initially admitted to Mills Memorial Hospital in critical condition were later transferred to other medical facilities across British Columbia for higher levels of care. Northern Health also updated the condition of two of those patients to serious condition, while the other two remain critical.

The Terrace Fire Department told The Skeena Reporter on Monday afternoon that they were dispatched to the crash site shortly before 4:00 p.m. In response to the incident, Mills Memorial Hospital declared a Code Orange around 4:15 p.m. Collins elaborated that a Code Orange is activated in mass casualty incidents to manage hospital capacity and resources efficiently.

Collins expressed deep concern for those impacted by the tragedy and extended sympathies to their families and friends. She commended the hospital staff for their prompt and compassionate care of the crash victims and other patients. Northern Health had requested the public to delay non-urgent visits to the hospital during the emergency.

Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway by the BC Coroners Service, Transport Safety Board (TSB), WorkSafe BC, and Terrace RCMP. Due to the crash site's remoteness, accessible only by helicopter, officials from the Terrace RCMP and the BC Coroners Service planned to visit the site on Tuesday for investigate further during daylight hours.

Terrace RCMP has reported that the identities and hometowns of the deceased will remain confidential until their families have been duly notified.

This is a developing story. More to come.

This story was last updated on Jan. 23, 2024 at 1:40 p.m.

Skeena MLA Ellis Ross has decided not to seek re-election as an MLA in the upcoming provincial election this October. The Skeena Reporter has learned that Ross is shifting his political focus to the federal level, where he plans to run under the Conservative banner in the next federal election, expected by October 2025.

Ross, a key figure in BC's political landscape, is set to officially announce his intention to represent the Conservatives in the Skeena–Bulkley Valley riding on Wednesday. His move marks a significant shift in his political career, which began with a strong victory in Skeena for BC United, which was formerly known as the BC Liberal Party. Despite an unsuccessful bid for the leadership of the BC Liberals in 2021, losing to Kevin Falcon, Ross has remained an influential voice within the party that later rebranded as BC United.

Under the leadership of former BC Premier Christy Clark, Ross was recognized as a rising star, holding significant portfolios including Natural Gas Development Minister and Housing Minister. His earlier political experience includes his role as Chief Councillor for the Haisla Nation, where he played a crucial role in negotiating a $50 million agreement with Kitimat LNG for the establishment of a liquefied natural gas plant.

Ross's decision comes as Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre intensifies his campaign efforts in British Columbia. Poilievre is scheduled to host a rally in Prince Rupert on Tuesday, a day before Ross's expected announcement.

The Skeena–Bulkley Valley riding, currently represented by former Smithers Mayor Taylor Bachrach has been a stronghold for the NDP since its formation in 2004. However, the Conservatives have been steadily increasing their presence in the area, narrowly losing by only 2,400 votes in the 2021 election. According to the latest projections from 338Canada.com, the Conservatives are highly likely to flip the seat, with a 94 percent chance of doing so in the next election.

Dear Readers,

Today, I come to you with an announcement that marks both an end and a beginning. After much contemplation and with mixed emotions, I have decided to step away from my role as co-founder of The Skeena Reporter, effective immediately. This decision, though challenging, is motivated by my desire to achieve a healthier work-life balance.

Since launching The Skeena Reporter on October 6, 2023, alongside my co-founder Hunter Wild, we have embarked on a remarkable journey. Together, we created a platform that stands as a beacon of reliable, community-focused journalism in Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat. Our goal was to address the news vacuum in northwestern B.C., and I am proud of the role we have played in connecting and engaging with our community through impactful journalism.

As I take this step back, I want to assure you that The Skeena Reporter remains in the incredibly capable hands of Hunter Wild. Their dedication to delivering insightful stories fills me with confidence about the future of The Skeena Reporter. I fully support Hunter and will be available to assist in any capacity during this transition period.

Reflecting on our journey, The Skeena Reporter has been more than a news outlet; it has been a community pillar for engaging local news. Our commitment to integrity, transparency, and respect for every community member has been at the heart of everything we do. We have not only narrated the community's story but also actively contributed to its fabric through various initiatives.

Our platform on Substack has provided a user-friendly and efficient way for our readers to stay informed and engaged. It has been a privilege to witness our community come together, sharing their curiosity, concerns, and interests related to Terrace, Thornhill, Kitimat, and the surrounding areas.

While I am stepping away now, the possibility of returning to The Skeena Reporter in the future remains open. I carry with me the memories and experiences that have shaped our outlet into what it is today and look forward to seeing how it continues to evolve and serve our community.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your support, engagement, and trust in our vision. Your participation has made our endeavor a truly communal one.

Although I am stepping away from my operational role, the mission of The Skeena Reporter to provide thriving communities with reliable, transparent journalism continues. I encourage you all to keep supporting this vision and Hunter as they lead our beloved outlet forward.

Thank you for being an integral part of this journey.

Warm regards,

Viktor Elias

Co-Founder, The Skeena Reporter

Environment Canada is warning of life-threatening cold weather in B.C. North and Central Coast from Wednesday until at least the end of the week.

In an Arctic Outflow Warning issued on Tuesday afternoon just before 4:30 p.m., the meteorological agency warns of the "first arctic intrusion of the year," adding that the strong outflow winds and cold wind chill values are expected to bring with it a risk of frostbite and hypothermia for residents venturing outdoors.

Wind chills, according to Environment Canada, are expected to be between -20ºC and -30ºC in Terrace and Kitimat, as arctic air combined with strong outflow winds generate temperatures that put residents at risk of frostbite and hypothermia within minutes if precautions are not taken when outdoors.

The arctic blast is expected over central and inland sections of the north and central coast starting Wednesday night, but areas like Bella Bella will see a slightly delayed onset to the cold air, with an expected start time of Thursday morning.

"Wind chill values may moderate on Sunday but uncertainty remains on the timing of the warm-up," said Environment Canada in the weather warning.

In an interview with The Skeena Reporter, Environment Canada meteorologist Armel Castellan said that the arctic outflow and its corresponding weather warning is nothing new, since Terrace and Kitimat will typically one at least a few times a year.

"What is bizarre is that we haven't had an arctic outflow yet this year and we're coming up on mid-January," Castellan said. "By the first week of January, 45 per cent of the snowpack has usually fallen, so there's typically a good few weeks if not couple months, just like we saw last year, where in November the switch was flipped, where we start seeing arctic outflows down the coast, both north and south.

In previous years, Terrace and area would see one or two arctic outflows, Castellan said. "This one just happens to bring us temperatures significantly below seasonal."

The temperatures Environment Canada is forecasting for Wednesday are approximately 10 degrees Celsius cooler than normal, Castellan said, but by the time Thursday rolls around, it'll be more than 15 degrees Celsius below normal. "The story here isn't so much about the temperatures than it is the winds and the wind chill."

"The frostbite and the potential for hypothermia, coupled with the fact that December was extraordinary for much of the province, in terms of temperature, is concerning," Castellan said. He added that Terrace saw its 12th warmest December on record and that's the least-warmest ranking they saw in all locations, with the exception of Old Crow, Yukon.

"The main thing with our arctic outflow warnings is that we're talking about strong winds to bring those temperatures down," Castellan said. "In this case, we're talking about the winds bringing those temperatures down below minus 20 degrees Celsius and even closer to minus 30 degrees Celsius."

When asked about when the extreme cold weather will end in Terrace and area, Castellan said that it will be with us until at least the end of the week but even then there's a lot of uncertainty. "Quite a few models agree on one thing: We cool off very quickly and peak, at least for the northwest, on the weekend, but it's a relatively slow warm up. It's going to take us a while before we get back up to seasonal averages, which are about zero degrees Celsius during the day and minus five degrees Celsius in the evening, for this time of the year."

Castellan said that it's likely going to be well into the fourth week of January before we see temperatures in the above-freezing figure, or just barely cresting over that.

Castellan also mentioned that there's also some uncertainty over a snowfall event that occur as early as Saturday or as late as Monday.

"There's a couple of models that bring some moisture down the panhandle. It could stall there and deliver almost nothing for Haida Gwaii, Prince Rupert, Terrace and Smithers, or it could dump snow on the area," Castellan said. "It could also create a situation in Vancouver and Seattle where you have widespread snow down to sea level that will warm up quickly because it's coming from the southwest and turn into a big slush fest," Castellan said.

Ultimately, Castellan said, a snow event is certainty part of an event like this, but that's by no means guaranteed.

The wind speeds Terrace is expecting are fairly significant because they're part of the reason we'll be seeing such cold air, Castellan said. "That cold, dense pool of arctic or modified arctic air is unable to go up and over mountains the same way; it's very terrain-specific."

"For the Skeena, the valleys are wide enough to allow a lot of movement of air, but it's still confined between the peaks and so that's why you end up getting relatively strong gusts and sustained winds," Castellan said.

In its 4 p.m. forecast, Environment Canada was forecasting winds of 20 kilometres per hour on Wednesday for Terrace, eventually leading to wind gusts of 40 to 60 kilometres per hour.

Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat, bracing the region for a significant storm system set to arrive tomorrow and intensify into the evening.

The federal weather agency predicts a substantial snowfall, ranging from 10 to 20 centimetres, across various locations including Kitimat, Terrace, along Highways 37 and 16, Rosswood, and Meziadin Junction.

This storm system, originating from the North Coast, is expected to bring snowfall starting before dawn on Saturday and continuing through the evening.

Environment Canada, in its latest weather alert, highlights the potential for rapidly accumulating snow, which is likely to complicate travel and reduce visibility, especially during heavy snowfall.

Adding to the complexity, a relatively warmer air mass is forecast to enter the region by Saturday evening, which may lead to a mix of snow and rain in some areas. This shift in weather conditions is anticipated to result in quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions, as temperatures in the area plunge.

Residents in Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat last experienced a significant snowstorm on Dec. 2, which left some areas buried in over 20 centimetres of snow.

The latest weather forecast for Terrace, released at 4:00 p.m. PDT, indicates temperatures hovering around the freezing point. Tonight, the forecast predicts cloudy skies with a 60 per cent chance of flurries, transitioning to light snow overnight and a low of minus one degree Celsius.

The outlook for tomorrow includes persistent snowfall throughout the day, expected to accumulate between 10 to 15 centimetres. The region will also experience winds up to 15 kilometres per hour, with steady temperatures near zero degrees Celsius and a wind chill of minus six in the morning.

As for tomorrow evening, the snowfall is expected to cease around midnight, followed by cloudy conditions and an additional two to four centimetres of snow. The temperature is projected to rise slightly to one degree Celsius by Sunday morning.

Residents are advised to prepare for challenging travel conditions.

The Tom and Eliza Thornhill Community Association (TETCA) is hosting a Christmas social on Dec. 6 at the Thornhill Community Centre from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The event, open to all, combines holiday cheer with a community-driven charity initiative.

Attendees are invited to bring non-perishable food items and an unwrapped gift to the social, though these donations are optional. This initiative aims to gather resources for local individuals and families in need during the holiday season.

Adding a special touch to the event, the Thornhill Fire Department will be present, offering an opportunity for community members to interact with local firefighters.

The social will feature an array of refreshments, including sandwiches, pastries, juice boxes, water, and oranges, catering to a diverse range of tastes.

Thornhill resident Bob Erb encourages locals to join in, saying, "Stop in, visit and hear what's happening in Thornhill."

The Thornhill Community Centre is located at 3091 Century Street.

Residents of Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat woke up to a winter wonderland Saturday morning, following an unexpected snowfall warning issued by Environment Canada early in the day. The Skeena Reporter, having first reported the news just before 2:30 a.m., indicated that snowfall amounts could reach up to 20 centimetres in these areas.

As temperatures teetered around zero degrees Celsius, the precipitation initially fell as rain before transitioning to snow in the early hours of Saturday. This weather pattern led to snowfall beginning just after midnight, followed by rain again in the early morning.

In Terrace, only a few centimetres of snow were recorded, similar to what was observed in much of Lower Thornhill. However, higher elevations experienced greater snowfall. Highway 37, the route connecting Terrace, Thornhill and Kitimat, saw some of the heaviest accumulations, as well as areas east of Thornhill, according to snowfall reports and photographs shared with The Skeena Reporter.

Adding to the excitement of the first snowfall, The Skeena Reporter launched a contest inviting residents of Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat to share their winter wonderland photos on various Facebook Groups. The initiative was met with an enthusiastic response, as community members eagerly captured the beauty of the season's first snow. Here are some of the best photos we received, each telling its own unique story of this early winter surprise.

Note: In an exciting collaboration, The Skeena Reporter has partnered with Lens of Love Terrace, a local photography business spearheaded by the talented Callie-Mae Carriere. She is a stay-at-home mom with a remarkable flair for photography and her work is featured as our featured image at the beginning of the article.

Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning early Saturday morning for Terrace, Thornhill, and Kitimat, anticipating significant snowfall. According to the national weather service, these areas are expected to receive 15 to 20 centimetres of snow, particularly over inland regions of the North Coast.

The warning comes with a caution about heavy snowfall continuing through the night. "Snow, heavy at times, will continue over inland areas of the North Coast tonight," stated Environment Canada in their snowfall warning. Residents in these areas are advised to prepare for reduced visibility and challenging travel conditions.

Additionally, a change in weather conditions is expected Saturday morning, with the snow turning to rain. However, before this transition, certain areas, especially those on higher terrain along Highway 37 between Terrace and Kitimat, could see up to 20 centimetres of snow accumulation.

"Periods of heavy snow are possible tonight before the snow changes to rain this morning," warned Environment Canada. They also highlighted potential hazards such as suddenly reduced visibility during heavy snow.

The Coast Mountains School District 82 Board of Education has imposed sanctions on Thornhill trustee Mike Maxim following a vote to censure him for an alleged breach of confidentiality. This decision, announced via a news release on Nov. 2, comes after in-camera discussions earlier this fall raised concerns about Maxim's conduct.

Elected by acclamation in 2022, Maxim now faces significant limitations in his role as trustee. The board relied on its Policy 5010 Trustee Code of Ethics to determine the sanctions applied to Maxim.

Under the imposed sanctions, Maxim will be excluded from committee work and in-camera meetings of the Board of Education. He will, however, continue to attend regular board meetings, albeit in a virtual format only. The board emphasized that despite these restrictions, Maxim remains a trustee and a member of the board, with ongoing responsibilities to all learners in the district.

In addition to these limitations, Trustees Ed Harrison and Margaret Warcup will temporarily assume the Trustee School Liaison roles for Thornhill Primary and Elementary Schools, respectively, for the remainder of the 2023-24 school year.

The sanctions also extend to Maxim's involvement in provincial meetings related to his trustee role. Any such engagement will no longer be funded by the school district, necessitating Maxim to personally bear these expenses.

These measures are set to remain in place until June 30, 2024, marking the end of the 2023-24 academic year.

The specifics of Maxim's alleged confidentiality breach have not been disclosed, adhering to privacy protocols for in-camera proceedings. Superintendent Aaron Callaghan and Board Chair Margaret Warcup have confirmed that the censure process was conducted in-camera and in line with the board's policies, in a statement to The Skeena Reporter.

Responding to the situation, Maxim told The Skeena Reporter, “Year one was for learning, years two to four are for taking a stand.”

Thelma Odell, a 72-year-old Terrace senior, experienced a startling yet fascinating wildlife encounter right outside her home on Friday afternoon. At approximately 3:30 p.m., Odell spotted a cinnamon bear ambling around her front yard on Molitor Street, near Mills Memorial Hospital.

Odell, who was watching TV at the time, noticed the bear near her van. Despite her limited mobility, she managed to capture a few images and videos of the bear from the safety of her home. "I took a few blurry pictures through my window," Odell said. "Of course, I wouldn't leave my home while it was meandering around."

Initially mistaking the bear for a grizzly due to its size, Odell later realized it was a cinnamon bear, a colour phase of the black bear, lacking the distinctive hump of a grizzly. "The first thing that ran through my mind was that it was scary because when my grandkids come over, they play outside."

The encounter lasted about 20 minutes, during which the bear explored her yard, sniffing around and showing curiosity towards Odell's van and sidewalk.

WATCH: Cinnamon bear meanders around Terrace senior’s property

Odell, who has observed a decline in bear sightings over the years, noted this was the first bear she had seen in the area for some time.

Odell recalled finding bear remains on her lawn a week earlier and had seen posts on Facebook about bear sightings near E.B. Horsman & Son and Mills Memorial Hospital. After seeing those reports, she thought it was only a matter of time until she saw it herself.

"I was wondering if I was going to run into the bear," Odell said.

While Odell described the encounter as "scary," she expressed concerns about mobility-impaired individuals like herself encountering the bear. She plans to report the sighting to the conservation office after the long weekend, believing the bear should be safely relocated out of town out of concern for the many children and seniors that live in the area.

In a bid to brighten up the holiday season and support a noble cause, the Greater Terrace Beautification Society is inviting community members to assist in adorning Heritage Park Museum with festive Christmas lights. This event, scheduled for Sunday at 11:00 a.m., aims to enhance the museum's grounds in preparation for the upcoming Dr. R.E.M. Lee Hospital Foundation fundraiser on Nov. 18 and 19.

Volunteers are encouraged to dedicate about an hour and a half of their time to hang the lights, contributing to a cause that promises to bring both joy and hope to the community. The Greater Terrace Beautification Society has a supply of lights and extension cords, but additional donations of lights, even those no longer functioning, are welcome for recycling purposes.

In a parallel effort, the Greater Terrace Beautification Society also plans to illuminate the front of the Terrace Sportsplex, adding a touch of festive cheer to another key community location. This endeavor underscores the Society's commitment to community beautification and engagement.

The fundraiser, hosted by the Dr. R.E.M. Lee Hospital Foundation, will continue until Jan. 2. Those interested in witnessing the festive lights can contact Heritage Park Museum to arrange a visit.

The Dr. R.E.M. Lee Hospital Foundation, established in 1988, is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to supporting Mills Memorial Hospital and Terraceview Lodge. Its current fundraising focus is on establishing a neonatal intensive care unit and special care nursery at the new Mills Memorial Hospital undergoing replacement.