It took nearly three years for snow to stick to the ground in Victoria – but it likely won’t be long until it happens again.

The capital city got its first taste of winter Monday night and Environment and Climate Change Canada says more is on the way.

The organization forecasts a “very potent Pacific storm” will hit the South Island on Thursday.

“Early afternoon we’re going to see the first flakes fall, certainly we’re going to see clouds ahead of that,” said Armel Castellan, a warning preparedness meteorologist. “The snow has the potential to fall in much larger accumulations than what we’ve seen over the last 36 hours.

A special weather statement is in effect for parts of Vancouver Island. 

It states mixed precipitation is expected throughout the weekend.

If you think snow is a rare sight in Victoria, then you're right.

It’s been 1,015 days since snow stuck on the ground in the capital city, Castellan says.

He added that the southern region of the Island could see between five to 10 centimetres, while areas higher up could be hit with 30 centimetres over the course of Thursday and Friday.

Tuesday night will be the coldest night this week with overnight lows between -4 and -7. 

CTV meteorologist Astrid Braunschmidt says cold, clear conditions will remain in place over Vancouver Island through Wednesday.

The snow will change to rain at some point during the day on Thursday. 

There are some areas that will not see the transition of rain, depending on the elevation and proximity to the water, Braunschmidt says.

Up to five centimetres of snow dusted certain neighbourhoods in the Greater Victoria area Monday night into Tuesday morning.

The white stuff also allowed for kids to enjoy a rare treat: building a snowman.

The wet flurries froze overnight and caused icy conditions for the Tuesday morning commute.

Police reported a number of accidents on roads in Greater Victoria, issuing a reminder to drivers to slow down.

West Shore RCMP also issued a reminder after receiving numerous calls about the weather. 

Island Health saw an increase in the number of fall-related injuries due to slips on the ice.

The health authority said about 20 cases were reported at emergency departments at Victoria General Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital.

The City of Victoria has activated its extreme weather protocol and opened up 395 shelter spaces. 

The city has bylaws in place for both residents and businesses in terms of snow and ice removal: