Dangerous road conditions due to the snow
Posted February 6, 2017 9:19 am.
Last Updated February 6, 2017 12:21 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
ABBOTSFORD (NEWS 1130) – It’s a very rough go on the roads if you’re in the Sumas Prairie area of Abbotsford today. White-out conditions are leading police to warn drivers to stay away.
All through the night and into this morning, firefighters, police officers and people who live in the area were rescuing drivers whose cars couldn’t handle the treacherous weather.
Abbotsford Police Constable Ian MacDonald says farmers even brought out their equipment to clear paths. “On the prairie itself, especially the back roads, even some of the main roads in spring and summertime conditions, we’re asking people to just basically stay out of Sumas Prairie.”
At last check, MacDonald estimates they had rescued about 20 people out of their cars.
MacDonald adds the areas around Vye Road and Fadden Road are especially bad. “Part of the problem we had, especially with the last few inches of snow that have fallen, it’s very light stuff if you’re shoveling, but it’s not great if you’re dealing with blowing snow. A lot of that recent snowfall from overnight is blowing around on Sumas Prairie pretty good.”
Abbotsford Police are asking people to avoid the Sumas Flats, east of Whatcom Road and north of Vye Road. Holly Street between Glenwood and Peardonville Road is closed and so is Beach Avenue between Centre and Holly Street.
Drivers are also being reminded to clear the snow off their back windows — you could be handed a hefty fine if you’re pulled over. It might seem mundane but police warn it can be a serious hazard if it flies off into the windshield of the driver behind you. The fine for not clearing your car of snow and ice starts at $81 but can go as high as $368.
