Coquihalla Highway overnight closure continues

A major BC highway is closed Tuesday morning due to what the provincial government describes as multiple vehicle incidents.

The BC Ministry of Transportation’s DriveBC says the Coquihalla Highway, or Highway 5, is closed in both directions from its origin in Hope to Exit 286 in Merritt.

DriveBC began reporting the closure around 9:30 p.m. Monday. Details are limited, but the ministry’s regular updates cite multiple incidents, including one at Snowshed Hill, as recently as 6:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Webcam images from along the highway show snow-covered roads and heavy snowfall throughout the night.

Meanwhile, a stretch of Highway 3, southeast of Hope, is also closed as crews work to repair severe damage done by rain storms earlier in the month. Highway 3 is not expected to reopen until some time between Dec. 26 and Jan. 1, 2026.

Drivers hoping to reach the Interior from the Lower Mainland are currently limited to Highway 1 or Highway 99.

The ministry issued a reminder that winter driving conditions can change quickly in B.C.

“Provincial highways can be closed at any time as conditions warrant. Be prepared for delays and closures by packing warm clothes, snacks and water, and by ensuring your vehicle’s fuel tank or EV battery is full.”

In it’s latest update around 8:15 a.m., DriveBC said Highway 5 remains closed. Another update is expected around 10 a.m.

source: CityNews photo: Drive BC