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People in the Lower Mainland are advised of the special weather statement with snow that is expected to impact Vancouver International Airport and local roads.

Photo courtesy Vancouver International Airport

Incoming winter weather will impact airport, roads

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 4:41 PST, Fri February 24, 2023

Last Updated: 5:14 PST, Fri February 24, 2023

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Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is preparing for winter weather conditions over the weekend.

Weather models are expecting 12 to 20 cm of heavy, wet snow between Saturday afternoon and overnight, followed by rain. Airport staff are monitoring weather closely and working with airlines and other partners to ensure passengers and planes get on their way as quickly and safely as possible.

Equipment and crews are ready, and the airport’s de-icing facility is fully operational. Airlines have been asked to ensure full towing capacity during the snow event so that empty aircraft are not stuck at gates preventing other planes from being able to de-plane passengers.

As is common practice at airports around the world, YVR teams are working closely with airlines as they adjust their schedules to the conditions. Additionally, YVR is ensuring the ability to modify how planes are gated to optimize operations if necessary and keep passengers moving.

As always, passengers are encouraged to check the status of their flight on their airline’s website or the flight information on yvr.ca before coming to the airport. Latest updates will continue to be available on Twitter @yvrairport and @yvraeroport and at yvr.ca.

Drivers are also advised of the special weather statement that has been issued. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and its maintenance contractors closely monitor conditions when snow and cold temperatures are in the forecast and are prepared for this late-season snowfall. On provincial highways across the south coast, based on the current forecasts, maintenance contractors are proactively applying anti-icing brine, and will plow and sand to manage any accumulation of snow.

The ministry’s snow and ice technicians will be stationed at the Port Mann and Alex Fraser bridges, activating the cable collars as necessary to clear accumulations of snow. Lane closures on the bridges to support snow and ice operations will be in place. Drivers should be aware that provincial bridges and highways may be closed on short notice to prioritize driver and passenger safety.

Drivers are reminded to avoid all unnecessary travel when weather conditions are poor, prepare for delays and longer commutes, and ensure their vehicles are properly equipped with winter tires.

Drivers can help maintenance crews by providing space for them on highways and moving over safely when they see a vehicle with an amber light approaching. This will allow crews to improve road conditions to reduce hazards for drivers.

Forecasts and conditions will be changing quickly. For up-to-date information about road conditions, visit DriveBC.ca.