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Sudden snowfall may impact morning commutes as warning is issued for the Tri-Cities

Environment Canada says the shift in spring weather could result in limited visibility and delays for commuters tomorrow (April 12).
CoquitlamWestwoodPlateauSnowDec42021EricMewhort
A property in Coquitlam's Westwood Plateau neighbourhood covered in snow.

Snow is on the way... not a typo.

Environment Canada has issued a warning for the Tri-Cities as tomorrow morning (April 12) could bring a decent amount of snow at higher elevations in the region.

The alert went into effect after 4 p.m. today (April 11).

Meteorologists explain up to five centimetres of the white stuff is expected to fall on places like Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Anmore.

It may also impact road conditions as commuters may suddenly have limited visibility at any given moment — or possible slippery sections.

"The south coast remains under the influence of a cold and unstable airmass," reads Environment Canada's warning.

"A low pressure system offshore will draw in moisture resulting in convective flurries similar to Sunday's weather across the Lower Mainland. While snow is possible even down to sea level, the higher elevations are more likely to see accumulating snow.

"The snowfall accumulation will be highly variable and dependent on precipitation rate, and surface and air temperature."

Experts are advising local residents to allow extra commute time tomorrow as road delays may be possible.

Drivers should also turn on the headlights and maintain a safe distance between vehicles if visibility is reduced.

The wet flurries may also be coupled with 20 km/h southeasterly winds, according to the latest 24-hour forecast.

A risk of thunderstorms is also on tap for the afternoon.

The daily high is expected to reach around 7 C, while the low may drop to just above freezing point.

Environment Canada - April 11, 2022
Environment Canada's seven-day forecast for the Tri-Cities and Metro Vancouver for the week of April 11, 2022. By Environment Canada