Snow covered Coquihalla slows travellers

KELOWNA, B.C. – A storm front from the Pacific continues to bring snow to the Coquihalla Highway east of Hope.

The rain turned to snow on the Coquihalla Pass through the Great Bear snow shed, Summit and Coquihalla Lakes areas around 5 A.M. Wednesday, and is expected to accumulate through the day.

Environment Canada says about 5cm more is expected to fall as the temperature hovers around -4°C.

Winter tires are required by B.C. law on the Coquihalla between October 1st and April 30th, when winter driving conditions are mostly present.

Snowfall May through September is less common on Highway 5, but has been frequently experienced in the routes 28 year history.

The Coquihalla Pass, where the snow is currently falling, is located at 1,244 m or 4,081 ft elevation.