Environment Canada's snowfall warning is in effect for Metro Vancouver with two to four centimetres expected for tonight, followed by five to 15 centimetres at higher elevations on Friday.
Ridge Meadows RCMP are warning people to adjust to driving conditions.
"While we often get mocked by our friends and family in eastern Canada, but the reality is we have had very little snowfall in the last few years and snow and cold temperatures can create very dangerous driving conditions," said Ridge Meadows RCMP Supt. David Fleugel.
"We urge citizens to follow the latest weather forecasts and as snow begins to fall please adjust your driving habits to suit the conditions. If a heavy snowfall does hit, we encourage citizens to stay off the roads for any non-essential travel to keep routes clear for snow removal vehicles and first responders."
Strong easterly winds combined with the snow will cause reduced visibilities in blowing snow, especially in the Fraser Valley. Snow could turn to rain by Friday evening.
Maple Ridge city's emergency program coordinator Patrick Cullen reminded people they have to clear the sidewalks in front of their homes and businesses by 10 a.m.
"The city's webpage titled Extreme Snow and Cold found at http://www.mapleridge.ca/1230, outlines our cold weather program and provides information on what you can do to be prepared for any snowfall. There are links to the city's plan for snow removal as well as the provincial contractors who keep Lougheed Highway and the bridges clear throughout a snowfall."
By Saturday however, the weather system could change. Environment and Natural Resources is calling for a daily high of 3 C with rain showers or flurries and a low of -1 C. Monday, it's supposed to be sunny.
Motorists shold have a snow brush and window scraper handy for the next few weeks because the long-term forecast is for cooler temperatures. All windows of your vehicle should be cleared before starting off.
In a Thursday release, the City of Maple Ridge said it has 12 snow removal vehicles that can be deployed and in operation 24/7 if the need arises. The priorities for snow removal are major transportation routes, steep hills, bus routes and assisting fire, police or ambulance.
Up to date weather forecasts and road conditions are broadcast on the local AM radio stations including CBC AM690, CHMJ AM730, CKNW AM 980 and CKWX AM1130. Heavy snowfall can result in power outages. You can get the latest updates from BC Hydro on their website bchydro.com and from their Twitter feed at @bchydro<https://twitter.com/bchydro>.