British Columbia

Let it snow? Cold snap to arrive in Metro Vancouver this weekend

A rainy November in Metro Vancouver could turn into a snowy December — at least in the first week of the month.

After an unseasonably warm November, below-freezing temperatures are expected next week

B.C.'s North Shore mountains, including Mount Seymour, are now all open for the 2016 ski season. (@Mt_Seymour/Twitter)

A rainy November in Metro Vancouver could turn into a snowy December — at least over the next week or so.

The first Arctic outbreak of the season is set to hit the region on Sunday, bringing with it below-freezing temperatures to much of the Lower Mainland.

"A big high-pressure system over Yukon will help push that cold air across the province," said CBC senior meteorologist Johanna Wagstaffe. 

"That means temperatures will be well below zero for the Interior, which will come with blustery winds and very cold overnight temperatures. For the South Coast, that will be moderated, but we could be talking about our first freezing temperatures for overnights starting Sunday."

The best chance of snow for the region is on Sunday night and Monday morning, when the front is expected to arrive, and on Thursday when it departs.

"The big question for Metro Vancouver is who sees the slushy snow, and who sees accumulation. We'll have to watch that carefully."

The snowy prediction comes on the heels of Mount Seymour beginning its ski season on Wednesday, joining Cypress, Grouse and Whistler Blackcomb, which all opened last week