The Ministry of Transportation and Transit has issued a travel advisory for areas in the Fraser Valley where there is a risk of flooding.
People are asked to avoid travel unless necessary until the heavy rainfall passes and water levels subside.
The ministry issued the advisory on Wednesday at about 7:15 p.m., following a day of heavy rainfall in areas like Hope, Chilliwack, Abbotsford and Mission.
A portion of Highway 7 near Hope was closed due to a mudslide in the afternoon, and on social media, drivers were reporting small mudslides, large potholes, soft shoulders and pooling water in highway exits and other key transportation routes.
“All travellers should be aware that conditions can change rapidly, with limited visibility due to high-intensity rainfall, pooling water, localized flooding and the potential for rising river levels to contribute to flooding in areas of the Fraser Valley, which could further impact road conditions,” the press release said.
“Drivers are advised that Highway 1 and other provincial roadways could be closed with little or no notice, as ministry staff and maintenance contractors continue to monitor water levels. Contractors have increased patrols and traffic-control workers are being put on standby to close highways quickly, if needed,” the ministry added.
Highway 11 at the Sumas border crossing is also closed to commercial traffic and allowing local traffic only.
They confirmed that Highway 7 is closed west of Hope (between Highway 9 and Ross Road) due to rocks on the road, with no timeline for reopening. A slope assessment will take place on Thursday, Dec. 11. After the assessment is complete, the ministry will provide an estimated time of reopening.
For traffic updates, visit: https://www.drivebc.ca/
To see flood warning and watches in the Fraser Valley, visit: https://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/warnings/index.htm
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