Update (4:40 p.m.)
The Coquihalla Highway has reopened between Hope and Merritt in both directions, following avalanche control work on Saturday afternoon, March 4.
DriveBC says the road is now cleared at the start of Highway 5, following the removal of more than 70 centimetres of snow.
It had been closed for more than 24 hours.
Delays are expected.
✅OPEN - #BCHwy5 both directions between #HopeBC & #Merritt after avalanche control. #Coquihalla #Kamloops
— DriveBC (@DriveBC) March 5, 2023
Original (1 p.m.)
The Coquihalla Highway remains closed in both directions Saturday afternoon, March 4, between Hope and Merritt due to extreme avalanche conditions.
More than 70 centimetres of snow has fallen on the road in the last two days, according to the B.C. Ministry of Transportation (MOTI).
It said Saturday avalanche control activities are underway and maintenance crews are working to reopen the road.
Highway 5 between Hope and Merritt was hit with a snowfall warning Wednesday, eventually closing the road in both directions for 109 kilometres.
DriveBC says alternate routes are available via Highway 1 and 3, however, significant delays should be expected.
In an update yesterday, the MOTI said the Coquihalla would remain closed until at least Saturday afternoon.
An update from DriveBC is expected at 3 p.m.
Our avalanche technicians prepping for avalanche control on the #Coquihalla this morning.
— BC Transportation (@TranBC) March 4, 2023
Via @driveBC - #BCHwy5 is closed #HopeBC to #Merritt). Crews continue to clear snow in anticipation of an opening early afternoon Saturday. https://t.co/FgKMoKg26y pic.twitter.com/fM78oQfd2L
READ MORE: Coquihalla remains closed overnight
