(UPDATED) Arctic air blast: Sub-zero temperatures to hit Metro Vancouver this week

Update: Environment Canada has lifted the Arctic air alert for Metro Vancouver.

Earlier:

A blast of frigid arctic air will drop Metro Vancouver’s temperatures to sub-zero levels beginning early Tuesday.

According to Environment Canada, an Arctic outbreak is expected to arrive Tuesday and last until Sunday, bringing an enduring period of sunny skies and cold temperatures. At nighttime, windchill will cause temperatures to drop to -10°C to -15°C.

Rain is expected on Monday before the cold front arrives, bringing a chance of flurries for Metro Vancouver on Tuesday. Further up at Whistler, at least 15 cm of snow is expected tonight through Monday.

Cypress, Grouse and Seymour mountains in the North Shore are expected to receive significant snow accumulations beginning tonight through Monday. Further up at Whistler, at least 15 cm of snow is expected by Monday.

“The Arctic air will arrive from the east, spilling out the coastal inlets and valleys first, spreading west toward Vancouver Island on Tuesday,” reads the federal agency’s weather statement. “As the leading edge of the coldest air of the season arrives, bursts of snowflurries may rapidly reduce visibility.”

“After the Arctic arrival, the South Coast will settle into an extended period of chilly but otherwise weather-less winter days.”

While snowfall is not in the ski hill forecast after Tuesday, the cold temperatures and low freezing levels will provide perfect conditions for snowmaking.

Vancouver International Airport

Image: Environment Canada

Abbotsford

Image: Environment Canada

Squamish

Image: Environment Canada

Whistler

Image: Environment Canada