No snow warnings but warming weather could be another problem in Metro Vancouver

VANCOUVER – A chilly, snow-filled week has caused troubles for residents of southern British Columbia and the wintry weather isn’t over yet.

Some people woke to fresh flakes Monday, although snowfall warnings in effect for Metro Vancouver and areas in the Fraser Valley were cancelled by mid-morning.

The Alex Fraser Bridge between New Westminster and Delta was closed Monday afternoon, with the Ministry of Transportation saying the combination of snow buildup and rising temperatures created a safety concern about snow and ice falling from the bridge’s cables.

The major route was opened hours later, just in time for the evening commute.

But the overnight snow still caused school closures and power outages.

Environment Canada meteorologist Matt MacDonald says 60 centimetres of snow fell in Hope, Squamish got 25 centimetres, while 12 centimetres of snow accumulated in North Delta.

MacDonald says cooler temperatures are expected this week, with the mercury dipping to -9 C overnight Tuesday.

He says there’s a low chance of some flurries in the region on Thursday, and the next notable storm may arrive around Dec. 20.

As for a white Christmas, he says that depends on the area.

“We’ve only had snow on the ground one out of 10 years in Vancouver at Christmas, but given all the snow we’ve had recently and the cold outlook, we’re not going to be losing all the snow that’s on the ground right now.”

MacDonald says the long-term outlook calls for temperatures that may be slightly cooler than normal until about the middle of January.