Area roads, particularly secondary streets, remain slick and lined with compacted snow as near white-out conditions persist through much of Nanaimo. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

take precautions

‘If you’re not comfortable driving in these conditions, don’t drive:’ Nanaimo roads a mess with blowing snow

Nov 29, 2022 | 2:27 PM

NANAIMO — The message is simple: if you don’t have to go, stay home.

Local roads remain in whiteout conditions through many parts of the region as blowing snow persistent throughout much of Tuesday afternoon.

Nanaimo Fire Rescue have responded to eight motor vehicle incidents in under four hours already on Tuesday, Nov. 29, while Nanaimo RCMP Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said people need to stay home.

“If you’re not comfortable driving in these conditions, don’t drive, it’s as simple as that. If you can get somebody else to drive, or you have a taxi service, please take advantage of it.”

He added if people do need to go out, they need to be prepared.

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Carrying an emergency kit, some gravel or kitty litter to use for traction in slippery spots, ice scrapers, gloves and a hat are all key elements during winter storms.

“Take a hard, honest look at your tires and if they’re unacceptable in this weather, you are part of the problem,” O’Brien added.

A snowfall warning remains in effect for much of eastern Vancouver Island with heavy snow expected through until around 10 p.m. according to Environment Canada.

Air temperatures are expected to warm overnight, turning falling snow into rain and further complicating matters.

O’Brien said all vehicle types need to take extra time and travel with caution.

“4×4’s are great for starting, they’re great for traction but they don’t help you stop. Vehicles have to leave a significant distance between you and the car in front of you and you have to leave room for stopping.”

Nanaimo RCMP have not shut down any roads or hills as of Tuesday afternoon, however have in the past as a safety measure.

Highway road conditions are messy throughout the region, with slick conditions and compacted snow. (DriveBC)

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