Snow, high winds, power outages expected for Metro Vancouver
Posted January 15, 2020 12:41 pm.
Last Updated January 15, 2020 2:34 pm.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — More snow is on the way for Metro Vancouver with high winds, which could make for a difficult commute for drivers Wednesday.
NEWS 1130 Meteorologist Michael Kuss says snow is expected in the afternoon, with a possible five to 10 centimeters.
“This round will be wet and heavy and could last through the afternoon drive. The winds will follow for the evening, touching at least 70 km/h. I’m expecting power outages with branches and trees coming down under the combined snow load and wind,” he says.
BC Hydro spokesperson Susie Reider says there are crews on standby as its meteorologist continue to track the storm.
RELATED: STORM CENTRE: Whiteout conditions, slick roads as Lower Mainland hit with more snow
“Our crews can activate their emergency response plans at a moment’s notice,” she tells NEWS 1130, while she assures crews will be prepared for all outages, including if street lights go out.
“We will restore power as quickly and safely as possible,” she says.
During a windstorm, Reider says trees falling on power lines are a high concern.
“They do fall on lines and cause outages in windstorms, such as these,” she says, adding customers should be prepared with a 72-hour emergency kit.
Similarily, Rieder emphasizes the threat of downed power lines and reminds everyone to stay back at least 10 metres.
Your #MetsOnTheMic @Kusswx & @NEWS1130Weather keep track of the #winter #BCStorm elements across the Lower Mainland. It ain’t over yet! #vancouversnowstorm2020 #wind #cold pic.twitter.com/UQ6JXWSB9j
— Russ Lacate (@NEWS1130Weather) January 15, 2020
“A downed line is an emergency. Call 911 if you do see one,” she says.
Winter conditions have already impacted transit, major highways, and businesses around Metro Vancouver. BC Ferries also had to cancel major sailings because of the wind.
Heaviest band of snow hitting Metro Vancouver now at 2:30 & staying steady to at least 4-5 PM. @NEWS1130 pic.twitter.com/1Oyo2z7Ixp
— Michael Kuss (@Kusswx) January 15, 2020
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