Highway 3 in B.C. reopens early after washouts—with strict safety limits
A stretch of Highway 3 in British Columbia has reopened ahead of schedule after severe washouts forced its closure earlier this month. The damage, caused by atmospheric rivers, left parts of the road impassable and required urgent repairs. Crews worked around the clock to restore access between Hope and Princeton, though restrictions remain in place for safety.
The highway suffered extensive damage, including five failed culverts that led to partial washouts. Repairs involved excavating affected areas and replacing the culverts entirely. Despite the challenges, the reopening came sooner than expected due to the non-stop efforts of ministry contractors and the quick availability of materials.
The reopened section now operates with single-lane alternating traffic and a reduced speed limit of 30 km/h. Commercial vehicles, however, are still advised to use an alternative route until two-way traffic is fully restored. Long-term fixes will require major design work and reconstruction, meaning the current detour alignment will stay until permanent repairs are finished. Drivers travelling westbound towards Hope will be held roughly 500 metres east of the site to prevent queues in an avalanche-prone zone where stopping is banned. Meanwhile, Environment Canada has issued fresh warnings for the Sea to Sky Highway and Highway 1, forecasting up to 20 centimetres of snow. This could create dangerous driving conditions, with sudden closures possible as weather shifts. Motorists are urged to prepare for delays by carrying warm clothing, food, water, and ensuring their vehicles have enough fuel or a charged battery.
The partial reopening of Highway 3 brings relief to travellers, though ongoing restrictions and winter weather warnings highlight the need for caution. Permanent repairs will take time, and drivers must stay alert to changing conditions on this and other affected routes.
Read also:
- United States tariffs pose a threat to India, necessitating the recruitment of adept negotiators or strategists, similar to those who had influenced Trump's decisions.
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
