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'Significant winter storm’ expected in Metro Vancouver

Travel conditions will be challenging between now and Christmas Eve
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More white stuff is on the way.

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm watch for Metro Vancouver.

Heavy snow followed by freezing rain is in the forecast for the next couple of days as a Pacific frontal system combines with the cold Arctic blast over B.C.

Another round of snow is expected to start Thursday night, changing to rain Friday night or Saturday morning over the mainland. Snow might accumulate to 10 to 20 cm and freezing rain is possible as temperatures begin to warm up.

Strong easterly winds mean blowing snow is also possible, which might result in near-zero visibility.

The alert by Environment Canada states that winter storm watches are issued when "multiple types of severe winter weather are expected to occur together."

It is unclear when it will start to rain and how much the rainfall will be, but it is expected to happen early Friday.

Community members are advised to watch out for difficult travel conditions due to rapidly accumulating snow, especially reduced visibility during heavy snow. 

"There may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas," reads the alert.