Snowfall warnings now in effect for several highways in B.C.

Motorists heading up to the B.C. Interior are being urged to take extra caution Friday as forecasters expect a big dump of snow.

Environment Canada has posted snowfall warnings for several highways, including the Coquihalla and the Okanagan Connector, with 20 centimetres or more of snow expected in some areas. The federal weather agency says the snow is a result of a low pressure system and a passing Arctic front over the South Coast.

The snow will likely be mixed with rain before turning to snow later today. Forecasters predict between 10 to 15 centimetres of snow will fall in the valley, and 20 centimetres or more over higher terrain. The agency says snow will ease to a few flurries by midnight Thursday over the southwest Interior.

There’s also a warning posted for the Sea to Sky Highway, with 15 centimetres of snow expected from Squamish to Whistler.

Environment Canada is warning that visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow, and rapidly accumulating snow will make travel difficult. Poor weather conditions may contribute to transportation delays.

Meantime, a special weather statement issued Wednesday for Metro Vancouver remains in effect.

Environment Canada says the South Coast should expect some rain today with some snow falling later in the day.

Whistler is expected to see 10 to 15 centimetres Thursday night with up to five centimetres possible over parts of the Fraser Valley and Howe Sound.

Meteorologists say Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island could get several centimetres by tonight.

On Friday, there is a 30 per cent chance of rain showers or snow flurries in the morning. That should clear around noon.