Some B.C. schools cancel in-person learning as snow batters South Coast, Vancouver Island

As winter weather continues to batter the Lower Mainland and parts of Vancouver Island, post-secondary schools in British Columbia have made the decision to move to online learning on Tuesday. Environment Canada has forecasted two to four centimetres of snow for Metro Vancouver, with the snow expected to taper off in the afternoon. Meanwhile, areas of Vancouver Island are expected to receive even more snow.

The University of British Columbia has cancelled all in-person learning on its Vancouver campus, with classes moving online. Capilano University’s campuses in North Vancouver, Lonsdale, and the Sunshine Coast have also shifted to online learning, while the Squamish campus remains open. Vancouver Community College has cancelled all on-campus classes, and elementary and secondary schools in North Vancouver and West Vancouver are closed for the day.

On Vancouver Island, the University of Victoria, Camosun College, and Vancouver Island University campuses are all closed on Tuesday. School districts in Greater Victoria, Cowichan Valley, Gulf Islands, Saanich, Campbell River, Qualicum, and Comox Valley have also confirmed that all their schools are closed for the day.

Meteorologist Alyssa Charbonneau from Environment and Climate Change Canada has stated that below-average temperatures are expected to linger in the region, with icy conditions likely. Localized flurries may continue into Wednesday, with daytime thawing leading to overnight refreezing. Multiple highway collisions have been reported, and commuters are being advised to stay off the roads if they are not prepared for winter driving conditions.

Extreme weather shelters and warming centres have been opened in the City of Vancouver to provide additional space for unhoused individuals. The shelters are set to remain open until at least Thursday. Environment Canada has issued snowfall, arctic outflow, and extreme cold warnings across the province, with wind chill values reaching as low as –25 C in certain regions.

Overall, as the winter weather continues to impact the region, safety precautions are being taken by schools, transportation authorities, and local governments to ensure the well-being of residents and students. It is important for individuals to stay informed about weather updates and to take necessary precautions when venturing outside in these extreme conditions.