Environment Canada predicts snow this evening, turning to possible rain or frozen rain overnight.
Some parts of the region are already beginning to see light snow.
The forecast for Pitt Meadows shows a risk of freezing rain tonight and through 5 a.m. on Friday in Pitt Meadows, then changing to wet snow.
TransLink works closely with the municipalities across the region on clearing snow for major bus routes. It will have additional staff throughout the transit system to assist with customers and operations, and will have salted and sanded transit exchanges. It does warn customers to watch for black ice which may accumulate overnight due to freezing temperatures.
Should temperatures increase tomorrow, snow would melt or turn to slush which could lead to flooding in some areas.
TransLink’s plan for all modes of transportation in anticipation of snow this evening:
BUS
• Many 60-foot articulated buses are replaced with 40-foot buses as they have better traction in snowy conditions. This will mean increased crowding in some areas tomorrow during the morning commute.
• Please check Trip Planner or follow TransLink on twitter to learn about any updates to bus schedules impacting you directly.
SKYTRAIN
• The extreme cold and ice buildup causes issues with SkyTrain’s track intrusion system, so TransLink has made adjustments and have turned off the system.
• TransLink continues to deploy SkyTrain attendants on trains to clear the snow and ice off the tracks. This work is done mostly overnight while trains are not in service. Attendants will staff the trains watching for guideway issues and to ensure the safety of our passengers.
• Passengers should expect reduced frequency and be prepared to wait a bit longer on the platform between trains.
• Passengers should anticipate crowding at peak periods. Passengers should build in enough time and plan travel around peak periods where possible.
HANDYDART
• Currently operating regular service.
• TransLink will monitor weather conditions overnight and conduct an on site physical assessment of secondary streets early tomorrow (Friday) morning in order to determine service. If driveways, sidewalks and stairwells appear to be in poor shape covered with snow, slush or black ice we will resort to essential service for our passengers.
SEABUS
• Service is operating normally at this time.
WEST COAST EXPRESS
• Service is operating normally at this time.
• Please remind passengers to exercise caution when proceeding to the trains on the platforms as conditions could be slippery.
If there is snow or ice, remember to dress for the elements, wear proper footwear and expect occasional service disruptions throughout the day.
Remember to plan ahead and give yourself extra travel time.
Check Trip Planner or m.translink.ca for a mobile device, or sign up for transit alerts to be the first to know if there are changes to the transit schedule.
Follow the customer information team on Twitter (@translink), Facebook (TransLink) and save 604-953-3333 on your mobile device.