As vehicles fishtail up the Malahat mountain pass, the BC Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure is reminding travellers to be extra cautious while driving today.
“If you’re not ready, don’t go,” said BC Transportation in a tweet this morning.
If you're not ready, don't go. Vehicles are spinning out on the #Malahat. As well, we are enacting chainup regulations for all commercial vehicles via CVSE check points on each side @ Westshore Parkway and Bamberton. #yyj #vanisle pic.twitter.com/2MCJQmplAM
— BC Transportation (@TranBC) February 8, 2019
The ministry is also reminding drivers that winter tires (or chains for commercial vehicles) are legally required if you’re commuting through mountain passes today. BC Transportation recommends planning for extra travel time on your trips and to be wary of limited visibility.
This cautious attitude is being echoed by municipalities across the island.
The City of Victoria is asking that people take extra care when travelling today, and are reminding the community to help pitch in to keep sidewalks in the city safe.
“There are over 450 kilometres of sidewalks in Victoria, so a community effort is required to make sidewalks safe,” said the city in a post issued today.
“Residents and businesses are reminded that under the Streets and Traffic Bylaw, they are required to clear ice from sidewalks in front of their property by 10 a.m. each day.”
When clearing sidewalks, the city asks that you use environmentally sensitive ice melting products, and to avoid using rock salt as it can be harmful to concrete, pets’ paws, and the environment.
The District of Saanich is advising residents to dress warm, keep their cell phones charged, and plan for extra travel time to reach destinations.
Red banners in #Saanich forecast; wind & snow. Give yourself peace of mind; take a few minutes to plan & #prepare. Dress warm. Know the plan at kid's school in the event of closure. Charge cell phone. Leave extra time for travel. Secure items around home. https://t.co/QiBO42HYaz pic.twitter.com/96MyGqlqVH
— Emergency Program (@SaanichEP) February 8, 2019
Meanwhile, several BC Transit routes have been cancelled due to these extreme conditions. The transportation company’s website is down, and all updates are being posted on Twitter. Follow them at @BCTransit for updates.
Thank you for your patience on this snowy day. We want to get you to your destinations safely, and as we are notified of route impacts across Vancouver Island, we will post them here. #yyjtraffic
— BC Transit (@BCTransit) February 8, 2019
Looking for a snow and ice removal service during this snowfall? Contact Tidy Grounds Snow & Ice at 250-516-3731 or visit them on Facebook – they’ve got the equipment to get the job done!