‘Wintery conditions’ coming to B.C.‘s South Coast this weekend

A heavy layer of snow covers a branch of a tree in this file photo. (Source: AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

People on B.C.‘s South Coast should prepare for “wintery conditions” in the coming days, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

The agency issued a special weather statement Wednesday covering the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.

“A low-pressure system is making its way towards the B.C. coast with steady precipitation beginning Thursday afternoon,” the statement said.

Wet snow is likely at higher elevations by Friday morning, with accumulations of up to five centimetres possible. However, the weather is expected to warm up, bringing rain – heavy in some places – throughout the day.

“Friday night and through the weekend, temperatures will fall as cold arctic air begins to invade the region and mix with the Pacific moisture,” ECCC says,

“Amounts are uncertain at this time but accumulating snow is likely in many areas this weekend.”

Warnings will be issued if and when necessary, the weather agency adds.

The wintery weather comes at the end of what has been an unseasonable dry January in the region, following a particularly warm and wet December.