As the flood continues to impact much of the Fraser Valley, commuting almost anywhere between Abbotsford and Hope has become a bit of a challenge.
With several road closures still in place, including Highway 1 between Sumas Way and Number 3 Road, massive traffic delays are starting to form on detour routes.
One of the biggest buildups is on Highway 7 in both directions, with Google Maps indicating that the drive between Mission and Agassiz could take more than an hour and a half with the traffic conditions at approximately 4 p.m. on Friday.
With driving times nearly doubled for many areas in the Fraser Valley, residents are recommended to avoid travel unless it is urgent.
Sgt. Paul Walker of the Abbotsford Police Department explained that drivers are being forced to rely on Highway 7 right now, which is resulting in an abnormal buildup of traffic.
“All those people travelling in from the Interior that are coming through Hope westbound on Highway 1, in order to get into Abbotsford or beyond into the Greater Vancouver area, you’re going to have to exit on Highway 9, the Bridal Falls exit, and proceed to Highway 7,” said Walker.
“We know Highway 7 is backed up. There’s a lot of traffic on there, and it’s going to take some time, and we ask for your patience.”
He said that while the water alongside Highway 1 is receding, it will still take a little while for crews to reopen the highway.
To accommodate the increased volume of traffic, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit said it is adjusting signals and increasing timings at Highway 7 intersections.
“Increased traffic control will be stationed at key locations to support improved efficiency through the network where there is capacity,” said the ministry.