Snowfall warning issued as province warns of potential bridge closure
Posted December 8, 2016 9:32 am.
Last Updated December 8, 2016 2:20 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
SURREY (NEWS 1130) – Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Greater Victoria and the rest of the South Coast. Estimates now are that accumulations could reach 20 centimetres in some areas.
The agency says the arctic outflow conditions and combination of strong winds and low temperatures will cause wind chill values to drop to near -20 degrees and persist through tonight throughout the Howe Sound, Whistler and eastern Fraser Valley.
As a result, the Ministry of Transportation is warning drivers today that the Alex Fraser Bridge could be shut down temporarily if the conditions get particularly bad during tomorrow’s expected snowfall.
At the very least, crews could close some lanes on that span and the Port Mann Bridge for safety reasons if the weather warrants it. This move is in addition to more frequent de-icing efforts to prevent further ice bombs like we saw earlier this week on both crossings which led to a total of 80 drivers having to file ICBC claims.
“Drivers will see crew members performing precautionary safety measures. Traffic control personnel may also put lane closures in place depending on travel conditions and work underway,” the ministry says in a statement.
The province is changing its approach by applying de-icer more often on the Alex Fraser and using the collar system frequently on the Port Mann to clear ice build-up.
Drivers are being told to expect delays until conditions improve. Mainroad Group also wants you to be cautious around its snowplows. The contractor is asking you not to pass them and to keep a safe distance at all times.
Following Monday’s snowfall, ICBC confirmed 55 people had filed claims after ice bombs fell on the Alex Fraser Bridge, while another 25 filed claims after driving over the Port Mann. The provincial government says it will cover the deductible for everyone, including the toll on the Port Mann.
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