Coquihalla Closed Again as Winter Storm Impacts Southern B.C.

December 20 2025 - Drivers are once again facing major disruptions on the Coquihalla Highway, which was closed Saturday evening following a vehicle incident amid deteriorating winter conditions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0c02CvXW-c

Snow was the name of the game from Hope to Kamloops

As of 10 p.m., Highway 5 is closed southbound between the start of the Coquihalla near Hope and Exit 290 in Merritt, a stretch of roughly 111 kilometres. DriveBC says traffic is being detoured via Highway 1, noting that Highway 8 is not suitable as a detour for commercial vehicles. The estimated reopening time is 10:30 p.m. Saturday, though that could change depending on conditions.

In addition to the closure, a major travel advisory remains in effect in both directions between Hope and Merritt due to heavy snowfall forecast through the weekend. Motorists are being warned to expect significant delays, with chain-up requirements in place, including northbound through Box Canyon. Commercial drivers are advised to be prepared to stop due to congestion and weather-related impacts.

Environment Canada has issued a high-elevation snowfall advisory for the Coquihalla, calling for challenging conditions through Sunday night. Forecasts indicate periods of snow tonight with 10 to 15 centimetres expected, accompanied by gusty winds and local blowing snow.

Sunday will bring additional snowfall of 5 to 10 centimetres, with snow levels rising to around 600 metres in the afternoon before dropping back to valley bottoms Sunday night. Another 10 to 20 centimetres of snow is possible overnight into Monday, with winds strengthening again.

DriveBC also warns that power to rest areas, facilities, and electric vehicle charging stations along the route may be impacted or unavailable due to the storm.

Drivers are urged to delay travel if possible. Updates on the Coquihalla closure are expected hourly on DriveBC.