UPDATE: 12:50 p.m.

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt and Highway 3, Paulson Summit and Kootenay Pass.

Snowfall accumulations are expected to range from nearly 25 cm at the Coquihalla summit to nearly 40 centimetres at Kootenay Pass by Tuesday morning.

Strong and gusty westerly winds will begin this afternoon.

According to Environment Canada, the combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds will result in severely reduced visibility and blowing snow conditions.

A special weather statement is in effect for Highway 3 from Hope to Princeton via Allison Pass.

With more than 25cm of snow expected to fall on the summit of BC Highway 5, also known as the Coquihalla, on Nov. 4, Drive BC has enacted the 'Coquihalla Snowshed Protocol,' for the first time this winter.  

The Protocol is put into action or when more than 15-20 cm of snowfall is expected to fall over a 12 hour period in the 'Snowshed corridor' between Merritt and Hope. 

A winter storm warning is currently in effect for the Coquihalla with snowfall expected to accumulate to 25cm at the Coquihalla summit and 35cm at Kootenay Pass by Nov. 5.

 expects heavy rain, snow, and strong winds to impact Okanagan Highway 97C, also known as the Connector, as well as the Coquihalla.

Drivers should re-assess plans and consider postponing their trip when the Snowshed Protocol is in effect.

When snow is in the forecast, the Ministry of Transportation asks that drivers pick a route that does not travel through through high elevation mountain passes. 

Up-to-date road conditions and incidents are reported on the  website andDrivers are encouraged to use the "plan your route" function on the website before hitting the road to be aware of the conditions for their proposed journey. 

The Ministry of Transportation reminds people to slow down when driving on the Coquihalla during the winter.

"Speed limits are set for ideal driving conditions and winter driving conditions are NOT ideal."

Additionally, all cars and trucks when travelling on the Coquihalla between Oct. 1 and April 30.

When theis in effect, the BC RCMP, highway maintenance contractors with snowplows, tow trucks, flagging and traffic services are all notified and prepare for action. 

Once the snow begins to fall, the contractor dispatches snow removal teams comprised of plow trucks, tow plows, loaders and snow blowers. Tow trucks will be on standby to respond to vehicular incidents. 

When the protocol is in place, commercial drivers are required to chain up.