Bitter cold, windy conditions and possibly snow are expected to hit B.C.'s South Coast as the first "arctic outbreak" of the season hits the region this weekend.
On Friday, Environment Canada issued a special weather statement saying the South Coast and Vancouver Island will be hit with an icy chill – and maybe even flurries – starting Sunday night.
Temperatures are expected to plummet up to 10 degrees below seasonal averages, around minus five degrees Celsius, that evening.
"After the cold air arrives, incoming Pacific weather systems may produce snow over coastal communities," the agency said in a statement.
Environment Canada says the areas affected by snowfall are still uncertain, but if it happens it will begin Sunday night.
Another strong Pacific system on Wednesday may increase the chance of snow yet again, but it will dissipate later in the week when it will be replaced by warmer air.
Environment Canada says people should prepare for winter-like conditions, and stay tuned to the latest forecasts and updates.
The City of Vancouver said its crews would work through the weekend to salt and brine major routes to prepare for the anticipated snowfall.
The city says it has a "comprehensive snow response plan" in place, including a fleet of 44 trucks that can salt the roads.
