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Snow shuts SFU, triggers driving delays across the Tri-Cities

Snowfall is expected to continue into the night
burnaby mountain sfu bus snow
Buses traditionally struggle going up Burnaby Mountain to SFU and the UniverCity residential community. FILE PHOTO BY Colin Fowler

Snow has returned to the Tri-Cities and, with it, commuting has become a little more complicated. 

While all Tri-Cities public schools remain open, Simon Fraser University has cancelled classes. 

“Due to significant snow forecasted and concerns about commuting conditions and the safety of our community, SFU’s Burnaby, Surrey and Vancouver campuses are closed today,” read a statement. “Buildings remain open on all SFU campuses but classes, exams, services and campus activities are cancelled.”

DriveSafe BC and Translink are both urging drivers to exercise caution and patience as the inclement weather is expected to create delays. 

Maintenance crews have also shut the Port Mann bridge's eastbound HOV lane as they complete winter maintenance. It will remain closed until 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4.

Between five and 20 centimetres of snowfall are predicted in the Tri-Cities throughout the day and into the night.

The latest snow is the result of a front tracking down the B.C. coast and smashing into a cool airmass. Snowfall is expected to vary significantly across the Lower Mainland and will depend on such factors as proximity to water and elevation.

Environment Canada predicts the highest snowfalls to accumulate in the northern and inland sections of Metro Vancouver, where snowfall could continue into Wednesday morning. For those in lower elevations, expect rain by Wednesday.