Freezing rain is expected to start falling in the Peace tomorrow morning, and drivers are being urged to watch for slippery patches.
In response to the risk, Environment Canada issued a yellow, or moderate, warning for Friday’s forecast.
“(On Jan. 30) a warm front will push through the region beginning early Friday morning, which will lead to periods of freezing rain and the potential for some ice accretion. The freezing rain may at times be mixed with snow and will taper off Friday afternoon,” the weather tracker’s warning reads.
“Roads and walkways will likely become icy and slippery. Icy surfaces could be difficult to detect.”
Motorists should plan to drive according to road and weather conditions, which is essential this season, according to Road Safety at Work, an initiative managed by WorkSafe B.C.
“A lot of highway maintenance contractors will tell you they see people stranded who are simply not prepared for the conditions,” said Trace Acres, a spokesperson for the organization’s winter driving safety campaign.
Early-morning drivers should be especially careful, with the sun not expected to fully rise until around 9 a.m.
“Darkness and poor visibility raise the danger of being struck by other vehicles,” the group said. “If you need to pull over because of poor roads or mechanical troubles, turn on your hazard lights while you find a safe place as far from traffic as possible. If there’s a pull-out or side road, use it.”
Despite the warning for Friday, Environment Canada is predicting a tame weekend in the region, with sunny skies on Saturday and cloudy weather with a 40 per cent chance of flurries on Sunday.
