Photo: DriveBC
Conditions at Kaleden Junction from 7:40am
UPDATE: 10:05 a.m
More southern interior roads have been added to a growing list of routes under a freezing rain travel advisory.
Non-essential travel is not recommended on many roads.
These now include Highway 6 between Vernon and Cherryville and Highway 97A between Vernon and Sicamous.
In addition, a South Okanagan advisory has been expanded to include the entire valley along Highway 97, from Osoyoos in the south to Monte Creek in the north.
On the Trans-Canada Highway, the advisory extends from west of Chase to east of Sicamous.
UPDATE: 9:20 a.m
Those planning to drive into the southern interior of BC this Christmas Day may want to reconsider.
Environment Canada has issued freezing rain warnings for many of the interior mountain roads this Monday, and slippery conditions are expected.
In its latest advisory, Environment Canada says ice is expected to accumulate on the Coquihalla and Okanagan connector, along with roads in the South Thompson, Nicola and Similkameen regions.
Freezing rain is also expected in the Fraser Canyon, north of Boston Bar, and on Highway 3 east of Allison Pass.
“Another Pacific frontal system will continue to spread warmer, moist air into the Southwest interior this morning while Arctic air remains trapped at lower elevations. As a result, freezing rain is likely to produce a some ice accretion,” warns Environment Canada.
“Surfaces such as roads, highways, walkways and parking lots will become icy, slippery and dangerous. Use extreme caution when walking or driving in affected areas. Be prepared to adjust your driving to changing road conditions.”
DriveBC says non-essential travel is not recommended on most high-elevation roads in the southern interior.
“Travellers should expect rapidly deteriorating conditions, consider changing travel plans and be prepared for closures at short notice. Unless essential travel is advised.”
Kootenay-Boundary region road contractor Yellowhead Road & Bridge took to Twitter to say even their plow trucks are having some issues.
“Roads have received freezing rain and travel will be challenging until temperatures warm,” YRB posted. “Crews are out sanding and salting, but it’s a challenge even for the plow trucks.”
Freezing rain has hit roads and travel will be a challenge until temperatures warm. Crews are out sanding and salting, but it’s a challenge even for plow trucks. Please follow the travel advisory and only travel if absolutely necessary. pic.twitter.com/I0fu5wzt2G
— YRB – Kootenay Boundary (@YRBKootenayBdn) December 26, 2022
ORIGINAL: 7:40 a.m
Watch out for freezing rain if you’re driving in the South Okanagan today.
DriveBC reports that travel advisories are in place for Highway 97 between Penticton and Osoyoos and Highway 3A between Kaleden and Keremeos.
“Watch for freezing rain and avoid non-essential travel,” DriveBC warns.
An update is expected at noon.
The warnings follow several travel advisories on Christmas Day.
Extreme snow and freezing rain advisories were issued for much of the interior south on Sunday, including the Coquihalla Highway, the Okanagan Connector, Hwy 3 and the Trans-Canada.