Residents in Port Alberni, British Columbia, face a high risk of black ice and slippery roads during the morning commutes on February 19 and February 20, 2026, due to a sudden drop in temperatures following rain and snow. Environment Canada expects another low of minus 4°C tonight, Thursday, February 19.
This weather pattern can create black ice, which is a see-through layer of frozen water that makes roads very dangerous. According to ICBC, this ice often forms on bridges and in shaded spots where the sun does not reach the pavement. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, leave more space between cars, and brake gently.
People driving over the Alberni Summit on Highway 4 should be especially careful. This area, often called The Hump, is 411 metres high and is more likely to have ice and snow than the city itself.
Provincial authorities from DriveBC recommend checking road reports before starting a trip. School District 70 Pacific Rim also has plans in place to cancel buses or close schools if the roads become too dangerous for travel.
