Snowstorm disrupts travel across Terrace, Thornhill, Kitimat
Limited visibility, blowing snow causing hazardous conditions in the northwest amid Pacific weather system
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.