(UPDATE: 4:05 p.m.) – The Government of B.C. is warning drivers about heavy snowfall that has hit sections of Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada Highway).

Snow plows are out in full force and ministry of transportation staff continue to monitor weather reports to maintain the safest possible driving conditions.

Photo Credit: DriveBCHwy 1 between Revelstoke and Golden

A travel advisory has been in place for the Revelstoke to Golden section of Hwy 1, which is expected to get up to 15 centimetres of snow in the next 24 hours.

Hwy 5 (the Coquihalla) and Hwy 97C (the Connector) are expected to receive some bursts of heavy snow as well, with 10 cm expected overnight.

Drivers are reminded to slow down, drive to conditions and check the DriveBC website for the latest conditions.

(Original story: 1 p.m.) – If you’re heading to or from the coast this afternoon, you’ll want to make sure your car is equipped with winter tires.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement that calls for “bursts of heavy snow” for B.C.’s southern highway passes.

Photo Credit: DriveBCThe Pennask Summit is starting to see some snow as of 1 p.m.

“Cold air mixed with a moist southwesterly flow will bring bands of heavy snow at times to some of the local mountain pass summits including the Coquihalla and Connector this afternoon,” explains Wesla English, NowMedia meteorologist.  

Travellers using the Coquihalla or Connector this afternoon or evening are advised to prepare for rapidly accumulating snow.

Environment Canada says poor visibility will also be an issue and that “weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions.”

You can check up to date road conditions and webcam images on the DriveBC website.