City of Vancouver says it's in "full snow response" mode

The snow began on Tuesday morning and the City of Vancouver says that they’re on “full snow response.”

According to Environment Canada, anywhere between five and 20 cm of snow is expected throughout the day, with rain entering the forecast in the afternoon and evening.

A release from the city says that “staff and equipment are concentrating on priority routes,” including main roads, bus routes, bridges, priority hills, and the 15 most popular bike routes.

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Crews have also been pre-treating popular routes since Sunday in anticipation of possible snow.

The City of Vancouver is also reminding its residents to clear any snow from walkways and sidewalks before it hardens to ice. Property owners and occupants are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks around their property by 10 am, seven days a week.

Four warming centres have also been opened, with visitors encouraged to bring their carts and pets. Powell Street Getaway, Britannia Community Centre, Vancouver Aquatic Centre and the Overdose Prevention Site opened on Monday night and will continue to be open throughout Tuesday.

Since the start of winter, the city says that they’ve received more than 4,500 visits.