Strong winds, snowy highway conditions expected across Interior B.C.

Ellie JonesDecember 16, 20251 Mins read8

Environment Canada weather alert map highlighting strong-wind and snowfall warning zones across Interior B.C. and coastal inlets.

An Environment Canada alert map highlights the regions under special weather statements and warnings, with strong winds expected overnight Tuesday, Dec. 16, stretching from coastal inlets near Bella Coola and Port McNeill through the Cariboo and down to Osoyoos—areas where drivers can expect rough, snowy highway conditions across much of Interior B.C.

Powerful cold front targets Interior B.C.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for a large swath of the Interior. A vigorous cold front will sweep through overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning, driving strong southwesterly winds across the Okanagan, Similkameen, Nicola, South Thompson, Fraser Canyon, Cariboo and Chilcotin.

Forecasters say the winds will ease by Wednesday morning but could still cause tree damage, power outages and delays on exposed highways and rural roads.

Heavy snow for key mountain passes

Alongside the wind, a winter storm warning is in effect for the stretch from Eagle Pass to Rogers Pass. Light snow will begin Tuesday afternoon, then intensify overnight and into Wednesday, with up to 30 centimetres expected.

Gusts up to 80 km/h are forecast in this corridor, and blowing snow may reduce visibility to near zero at times. Drivers should be prepared for sudden whiteout conditions and rapidly changing traction on steep grades.

Warnings for the Coquihalla and other routes

A separate snowfall warning covers the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt, where as much as 35 centimetres of snow could fall from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning. Snow may mix with rain south of the summit, but winds gusting to 70 km/h will still create blowing snow and slick pavement.

Highway alerts are also in place for the Coquihalla from Hope to Kamloops and for the Okanagan Connector from Merritt to Kelowna because of strong winds. Drivers on Highway 1 between Lytton and Hope face additional hazards from heavy rain, with a risk of debris flows, localized flooding and possible washouts.

Travel advice and how to stay informed

With strong winds snowy highway conditions expected for much of Interior B.C., officials advise motorists to reconsider non-essential travel, especially overnight and early Wednesday. Those who must drive should carry winter tires, emergency supplies and allow extra time for slow, unpredictable traffic.

Environment Canada and DriveBC will provide ongoing updates on conditions, warnings and closures. People can report severe weather by email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or by posting observations on X using the hashtag #BCStorm.

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