Reminder: Winter tires required on most highways from Oct. 1

Winter tires or chains are required on most routes in British Columbia from October 1 to April 30.

For select highways not located through mountain passes and high snowfall areas, tire and chain requirements end March 31.

These routes are marked with regulatory signs posted on highways throughout the province, and are enforced by the police, ministry or other enforcement officials.

Motorists who are not compliant may be turned away and fined.

Due to a more temperate winter climate in the Lower Mainland and southeastern Vancouver Island, drivers are not required to use winter tires in many areas along the coast.

Meanwhile, Drive BC is urging caution to drivers as the first storm of the fall season hits southern BC.

Environment Canada has issued a warning for heavy rain and wind for Howe Sound.

Periods of heavy rain and strong winds can be expected in the first active storm cycle of the fall season.

The heaviest rainfall amounts are currently expected over Howe Sound and the North Shore.

For the mainland, total rainfall amounts will range from 50 mm to excess of 100 mm over the two-day period.