The promised snow has arrived.
Residents of the Cowichan Valley woke up to at least 10 centimetres of snow on the ground and more falling steadily on Saturday morning, Feb. 13.
The Cowichan Valley is under a winter storm warning according to Environment Canada, with significant amounts of snow expected.
“Pacific moisture associated with an approaching frontal system is colliding with the arctic front along Vancouver Island. Snow heavy at times will continue this morning and the ease this afternoon. Further snowfall accumulations of up to 15 cm are expected. In addition, strong easterly winds will give areas of poor visibility in snow and blowing snow,” the storm warning reads.
It further warns highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may be difficult for drivers and walkers, and visibility will be near zero at times with heavy and blowing snow.
Few people took to the roads Saturday morning, though many were out shoveling driveways and sidewalks.
The Municipality of North Cowichan will be clearing roads in priority order. More information is available here. The municipality was also reminding residents that everyone, businesses included, are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the sidewalks that border their property within 48 hours of it starting to accumulate. Don’t shovel it into the street.
“This is important to ensure pedestrians can safely get to their destination — in particular, people with limited mobility such as the elderly and disabled, those who use motorized scooters, or parents with strollers. A fine of $100 may be issued to those who don’t comply with the bylaw,” a notice on the municipal website states.
The municipality was also reminding people to consider helping any elderly neighbours who may have trouble doing the labour without help.
More snow is also expected Sunday and Monday, with the possibility increasing that it could be mixed with rain as the long weekend continues.
