Highways closed, BC Ferries busy as holiday travel season continues
Heavy snow and treacherous conditions have disrupted major routes in British Columbia this week. The Coquihalla Highway shut down for over 12 hours after multiple crashes, while Highway 3 remains closed from earlier storm damage.
Travel delays continue as BC Ferries warns of packed sailings following Monday’s weather cancellations.
The Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt was closed in both directions on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Severe winter weather triggered several collisions, forcing the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (DriveBC) to halt traffic.
Northbound lanes reopened around noon, while southbound lanes followed just before 1 p.m. The closure lasted over 12 hours, causing significant delays for drivers.
Meanwhile, Highway 3 between Hope and Princeton stays closed due to lingering damage from an atmospheric river weeks earlier. Multiple sites along the route remain unsafe for travel.
BC Ferries is also facing high demand after Monday’s weather cancellations. Customers without reservations now face long waits for sailings throughout the day.
A snowfall warning is now active for the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler, with forecasts predicting up to 20 centimetres of snow.
The Coquihalla Highway has reopened, but Highway 3 remains shut due to earlier storm damage. Travellers should expect delays on roads and ferries as winter conditions persist. BC Ferries advises booking in advance to avoid extended waits at terminals.
