Arctic front on its way

Photo: Castanet Staff - file photo

UPDATE NOV. 22 NOON:

Winter is on its way.

Environment Canada has updated its Arctic weather warning Sunday morning to include the Okanagan and the entire southern half of the province.

The special weather statement is in effect for the entire southern half of B.C., including Vancouver Island, calling for blowing snow and freezing arctic air starting Sunday night and into Tuesday.

“The first Arctic outbreak of the season will bring Arctic air, blowing snow and difficult winter driving conditions to the Southern Interior of British Columbia beginning Monday,” writes Environment Canada.

“An intensifying upper trough of low pressure over the Pacific will develop into a powerful upper low near the Washington coastline by Tuesday morning. As the deepening trough approaches, light snow will spread over the Southern Interior Monday.”

At the same time, an Arctic high-pressure system in Northern British Columbia will intensify and push Arctic air southward. By early Tuesday morning, the leading edge of the Arctic air – the Arctic front – will be poised to traverse the Southern Interior.

“As the coldest air of the season arrives, temperatures will fall, wind chills will worsen and poor visibility in snow will be further reduced in areas of blowing snow,” adds Environment Canada.

Snowfall amounts of five to 15 centimetres are possible by late Monday.

The Columbia regions will receive the most snow and further accumulations are expected everywhere on Tuesday. Snowfall warnings may be issued at that time.

The storm will end by Tuesday evening and the Southern Interior will settle into an extended period (four to six days) of chilly, but otherwise weather-less winter days.

The public is advised to monitor future forecasts and warnings as warnings may be required or extended.

Check DriveBC for current road conditions. Weather alerts and statements are available on the Environment Canada website.