Extreme winter weather continues to affect travel on Vancouver Island.

With high winds and blowing snow forecast through Wednesday evening and into Thursday, motorists are advised to avoid all but essential travel.

A travel advisory applies to the following Vancouver Island routes:

• Highway 1 from Nanaimo south to Victoria
• Highway 4 west to Taylor River
• Highway 19 north to Tsitika (approximately 100 km north of Campbell River)

A travel advisory is also in effect for Highways 14, 17 and 18. The ministry will reassess conditions on Thursday morning.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure advises travellers to expect winter conditions for the rest of the week. Those who must travel are asked to use extreme caution. All motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and drive according to weather and road conditions, slowing down when they encounter bad weather or limited visibility.

Winter tire regulations are in effect, and drivers are encouraged to get the best tires they can. People should ensure their vehicles have tires with the mountain/snowflake or mud and snow (M + S) symbol when travelling on designated routes.

Also, keep space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of yours so you can stop safely.

Keep well back of all the winter maintenance equipment on highways so operators can perform their maintenance safely.