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Freezing rain could lead to power outages in Fraser Valley

Winter storm watch issued for Fraser Valley; residents urged to prepare for possible power outages, impassable roads
68929abbotsfordWeather_SnowAlert

Fraser Valley residents should prepare for possible power outages and localized flooding as heavy snow is expected to change over to freezing rain and then rain Wednesday night.

A Winter Storm Watch issued by Environment Canada states: "Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible."

Environment Canada meteorologist Matt MacDonald said "a prolonged freezing rain event" is possible. In addition to turning roads into sheets of ice, the freezing rain could accumulate on power lines, leading to outages across the region.

MacDonald urged residents to ensure they have an emergency preparedness kit ready. They should also be prepared not to travel on Thursday, he said.