Winter Storm Warnings Issued Across British Columbia

Elk Valley and Cranbrook are under a winter storm warning due to an expected 20 to 30 centimeters of snow from December 17 to 18, causing hazardous travel conditions with near-zero visibility. Environment Canada has warned that heavy snowfall will also impact roads and highways, urging motorists to exercise caution. Concurrently, a significant storm is impacting British Columbia's coast, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, with rainfall warnings in effect for areas including Metro Vancouver and the Southern Gulf Islands. This storm has already resulted in a mudslide near Lions Bay, leading to one confirmed death and another person missing. Additional snowfall warnings are issued for Whistler and the North Coast, where conditions may further deteriorate with freezing rain expected. Residents are advised to stay alert and monitor updates as weather conditions can change rapidly.