If you put your shovel away after the last big snowfall in New Westminster, you may want to pull it back out.
New West residents could find themselves digging out from under the white stuff one more time, as Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement warning of impending heavy snowfall over Metro Vancouver — including New Westminster and Burnaby.
Environment Canada says a "significant weather system" will push across the South Coast this weekend, bringing widespread snow to the region.
Periods of light snow are expected to start on Saturday and intensify to heavy snow Saturday night, with the heavy snow easing off on Sunday morning for most areas.
And they're not kidding about "heavy" — though amounts remain unpredictable and will vary around the region, Environment Canada is predicting from 10 to 20 centimetres, with as much as 30 cm on higher terrain.
As a result, Lower Mainland residents should expect "challenging travel conditions," so leave the car at home if you can.
Watch for warnings to be issued as the weather system moves closer.
How does the City of New Westminster deal with snow?
City crews have already been hard at work this week keeping the roads de-iced for the ongoing cold snap.
Residents are reminded that the city has a priority order for road clearing, starting with keeping major transportation routes clear and clearing around hospitals, school zones, transit routes and city facilities.
You're also reminded that property owners and occupants are responsible for keeping the sidewalk clear in front of their own property, no later than 10 a.m. of the day after a snowfall.
The city has a few reminders for clearing sidewalks:
- Sidewalks should be clear of snow and ice the full length and width and down to bare concrete to ensure accessibility for all citizens.
- Please do not shovel onto the street.
- Please do not use table, rock salt, or a sodium based product as it will damage the surface of the sidewalk. Suitable de-icing products are available for purchase at local retailers.
You can get all the details on the city's snow removal page.
What about people who need shelter from the streets?
The city has opened its warming centre at 40 Begbie St. to help folks deal with the cold snap. It's open 10:30 p.m. to 8 a.m. nightly up to and including Saturday, Feb. 25.
The nightly shelter at 502 Columbia St. is also open from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Follow Julie MacLellan on Twitter @juliemaclellan.
Email Julie, jmaclellan@newwestrecord.ca
