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Victoria, Sooke schools open, Saanich closed due to ‘significant snow’

Greater Victoria, Sooke school districts maintain classes

As snow and ice settle over the region, schools in Saanich are closed while Greater Victoria and Sooke school district classes are in session on Wednesday (Jan. 17).

Saanich School District announced the closures shortly before 6 a.m. due to “significant snow levels in many areas.”

“Most side streets on the Peninsula are not plowed and we expect more snow before today finishes. Schools will remain closed for the day to allow municipal crews to clear streets and our district crews to clear parking lots and sidewalks at our schools,” SD 63 said in a statement.

READ ALSO: Simple steps for preparedness as extreme weather set to hit Greater Victoria

The Greater Victoria School District schools are open and buses running with the caveat that may change as weather changes. Thirdwave buses are running with altered service, and the district says parents will be notified if their child’s route is altered.

Buses are cancelled, but schools are open in the Sooke School District.

“It is up to the parent/guardian to decide if they feel comfortable sending their child to school. We support and respect your decision. If you decide not to send your child to school, please notify the school of their absence,” the district said in an online update.

Camosun College and the University of Victoria were originally open, but closed their campuses midday.

BC Transit is reporting that they are running most routes to UVic, but there may be delays due to snow accumulation or slippery conditions, the school said in an online update.

READ ALSO: Victoria says snow-clearing vehicles and crews ready for forecasted flurries

Transit is seeing delays and cancelled trips on several routes. Visit bctransit.com or call 250-382-6161 for the latest updates.

The winter weather is also impacting flights, according to Victoria International Airport, where staff recommend confirming flight status before heading to the airport in North Saanich.

Snowfall could hit 10 cm in some parts of Vancouver Island with Greater Victoria potentially shifting to rain later Wednesday, according to Environment Canada.

Thursday in the Capital Region could see more snow starting in the afternoon with two centimetres expected and winds at 20 km/h gusting 40. Temperatures are expected to remain in the 1 C to 2 C range.

Are you taking a snow day? Share your photos with our readers! Email your photos and videos to christine.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca.

READ ALSO: Island drivers urged to prepare for the rain, snow, and fog of winter



Christine van Reeuwyk

About the Author: Christine van Reeuwyk

Longtime journalist with the Greater Victoria news team.
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