Temperatures are expected to drop in British Columbia this weekend as an arctic air mass blankets most of the province.
January has been warmer than average so far, but that’s about to change, according to Environment Canada.
“We’re in for a pretty big change in weather this weekend,” said Environment Canada meteorologist Alyssa Charbonneau.
The Met Office has issued special weather statements for most of the province, warning residents of freezing temperatures from Friday night.
The air mass will begin to spread over the area on Saturday.
Environment Canada is predicting temperatures up to 20 C below normal for this time of year in central and southern interior British Columbia and up to 10 C colder for the South Coast.
Wind gusts of up to 80 km/h will make the air even colder, Charbonneau said.
The cold weather is expected to linger through the weekend and into next week, with the lowest temperatures on Sunday and Monday.
“If you’re going to be spending extended periods outdoors, make sure you’re dressed appropriately and have places where you can maybe take a break to warm up,” Charbonneau said. “Especially because it’s going to be a big change from what we’ve been seeing for the past few weeks.”
Driving conditions
The cold, accompanied by wind and fog in parts of the South Coast, can cause problems for drivers, according to Road Safety at Work, an organization funded by WorkSafeBC.
“The critical safety zone for driving in cold weather is between 5C and -5C, so keep an eye on the thermometer before you set off,” said the Trace Acres spokesperson.
“You have to look out for yourself and for others who slide your way.”
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They suggest having four matching winter tires in good condition, and ideally tri-peaked mountain and snowflake tires.
They also recommend drivers check conditions before hitting the road, increase following distance and reduce speed.
“The posted speed limit is the maximum speed under ideal driving conditions. Winter conditions are far from ideal.”
The organization says if there’s ice on your windshield, there’s probably black ice on the road.
Reduce speed near shaded areas, bridges and overpasses and watch out for black, shiny patches on the road.
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