Advisory for Kootenay Pass extended

A Special Weather Statement for Highway 3 from the Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass was extended early Sunday morning.

Conditions along the stretch of highway have already, or will, include high, gusty winds, rapidly accumulating snow, blowing snow and poor visibility.

The statement also covers other mountain passes in the Southern Interior including Highway 5 (Coquihalla) Highway 97C (Okanagan Connector) and the Allison Pass (Highway 3) between Hope and Princeton.

Heavy snow and strong winds are forecast to continue through Tuesday.

Environment Canada is indicating a strong frontal system passing through central B.C. will cause a strong frontal band to sweep through southern B.C.

“Strong south winds ahead of the front and up slope snow will arrive on Monday. Behind the front, strong west and northwest winds will sweep across the regions beginning Monday evening. Snow accumulations on the highest summits like Coquihalla and Kootenay Pass may exceed 20 cm on Monday,” said the statement.

It warns weather in the mountains can change suddenly, resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

For updated Drive BC highway conditions, please click here.