Avalanche warnings in B.C. highways amid snowstorm
Posted December 23, 2022 10:01 pm.
Last Updated December 23, 2022 10:14 pm.
Avalanche warnings have now been mixed in to the already treacherous road conditions in British Columbia, caused by a combination of heavy snowfall and freezing rain.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure warns conditions on Highway 3 from Hope to Princeton and Princeton to Hedley are expected to be particularly dangerous throughout the weekend.
#AllisonPass between Hope and Princeton is considered a moderate hazard and could transition to high hazard and a road closure overnight, depending on the storm's severity.
Full advisory: https://t.co/XkVq3nroov— BC Transportation (@TranBC) December 24, 2022
In a statement released Friday, the Ministry advised drivers to avoid non-essential travel on this route, and for those who choose to travel to exercise caution, expect difficult road conditions, and be prepared for closures on short notice.
Parts of Highway 3 and Highway 1 through the Fraser Canyon have been closed citing “moderate to high avalanche risk.”
Highway 1 near Jackass Mountain will be closed due to “moderate avalanche hazard” between Friday midnight and Saturday morning, Dec. 24, when the situation will be reassessed.
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Highway 1 through the Fraser Canyon has also been deemed a “moderate avalanche hazard,” with a possible transition to “extreme hazard” status Saturday morning, Dec. 24.
Allison Pass between Hope and Princeton is considered a “moderate hazard” and could transition to “high hazard” and a road closure overnight, depending on the storm’s severity.
Crews are prepared to work until all lanes are open
Be extremely cautious when approaching highway maintenance equipment ~ your best defense is to keep a safe distance.
Travel conditions are treacherous – avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. #Shiftintowinter #bcstorm pic.twitter.com/JMvdBwGpWF
— Mainroad Lower Mainland Contracting (@MainroadLM) December 24, 2022
Authorities have asked drivers to provide contractors space on highways to allow them to carry out maintenance work, and to refrain from passing equipment in operation until it is safe.
