Heavy snow and strong winds forecast for Southern Interior highways

Drivers in the Southern Interior should prepare for difficult winter conditions as a storm brings heavy snow and strong winds to the region.

Environment Canada says the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt could see up to 60 centimetres of snow by Thursday morning, with wind gusts reaching 100 km/h.

Highway 3 over Allison Pass may receive 25 centimetres, while the Okanagan Connector between Merritt and Kelowna is expected to get about 10 centimetres.

Blowing snow could reduce visibility, making travel hazardous, particularly for trucks and high-profile vehicles. The storm is driven by a low-pressure system crossing the southwest Interior and is expected to ease Thursday morning, though gusts and scattered flurries could continue.

Authorities urge motorists to delay travel if possible and drive with caution until conditions improve.