The misty blanket hanging over Vancouver shows no sign of lifting as Environment Canada extends its fog advisory until Thursday afternoon. The city has been shrouded in near-zero visibility for days, with a ridge of high pressure trapping moisture close to the ground.
According to meteorologist Michael Kuss, this phenomenon, known as a temperature inversion, has led to cooler air being trapped at sea level while higher up remains relatively warmer. This weather pattern has prevented the usual mixing and dispersion of the fog.
Many are finding solace in the mountains, where the cityscape can still be admired from above. However, the fog is causing disruptions at Vancouver International Airport, with delays and cancellations becoming more frequent.
The fog has also made the coastline busier than usual, with ships sounding their foghorns as a safety precaution. Although modern technology aids in ship detection, the foghorns remain a crucial last resort for navigation along B.C.’s coast.
Despite efforts to clear throughout the day, the fog persists, hinting at a prolonged stay ahead. Slippery conditions are also a concern due to the possibility of black ice forming in low-lying areas.
As the city grapples with this unusual weather, residents are reminded to exercise caution on the roads. While some may find the fog a welcome change from the harsh winter conditions elsewhere in Canada, the persistence of this atmospheric anomaly continues to impact daily life in Vancouver.