The Nicola Valley is expected to be hit with snow and cold temperatures this week.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt and Merritt to Kamloops along with the Okanagan Connector from Merritt to Kelowna, saying up to 20 centimetres of snow is expected today through Tuesday.
An Arctic front will to bring strong winds and blowing snow to most routes overnight tonight and on Tuesday.
The snow on the Coquihalla Highway, Okanagan Connector and Kootenay Pass is expected be light to start and become heavy at times Monday night and Tuesday.
Merritt is expected to receive 5 centimetres of snow tonight and there is a 40 per cent chance of flurries Tuesday morning and afternoon, clearing late in the day. Tuesday’s temperature is expected to fall to -3 C by the afternoon. Strong winds are in the forecast tonight and tomorrow as well.
Even chillier temperatures are expected Wednesday and Thursday with a low of about -13 C and a high of about -4 C.
Despite the snow and cold temperatures, Merritt is expected to have sunny skies, according to Environment Canada’s seven-day forecast.
An Arctic high-pressure system in northern British Columbia will intensify and push Arctic air southward. By early Tuesday morning, the leading edge of the Arctic air — the Arctic front — will begin to cover the Southern Interior.
Friday is forecasted to be warmer with a low of -6 C and a high of -1 C.
Environment Canada advises the public to monitor future forecasts and warnings, which may be required or extended.