Sunday, February 10, 2019 ~ WEST SHORE.
[UPDATE: Malahat open again 7:35 pm this evening, according to Drive BC]
The Malahat section of Highway 1 (Trans Canada) between West Shore Parkway and Bamberton Provincial Park has been closed by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as of about 5:00 pm this evening Sunday, February 10.
“The highway is closed until further notice,” says City of Langford Director of Engineering, Michelle Mahovlich. This is due to near white-out conditions on that highway and much of the south Vancouver Island area this evening.
Mainroad South Island which is responsible for road maintenance in the west shore area (as well as Highway 14 and Sooke) says there is “lots of snowfall hitting Vancouver Island and some areas with almost whiteout conditions”.
If you see an issue on South Island Highways, you can report it 24/7 to 1-877-391-7310.
Northbound traffic is closed at West Shore Parkway, Langford. Southbound traffic is closed in Mill Bay and at the South Shawnigan Lake Rd. “Highway maintenance crews with Mainroad Contracting are attempting to clear the roadway with plows,” says West Shore RCMP. “Prior to the closure, several vehicles were stuck on the roadway blocking the plows from getting through.” say RCMP.
“Expected time frame for this road closure is unknown at this time and dependent on weather conditions,” says RCMP.
Environment Canada issued a snow-warning mid afternoon today, advising of 5 to 10 cm coming for the Greater Victoria area.
“Weather conditions are bad. If you have to drive, have your winter tires and chains and drive to conditions,” says Mainroad. “Avoid driving when road and weather conditions are bad.” Check @DriveBC | www.drivebc.ca for current conditions. #ShiftIntoWinter
City of Langford Engineering advises that the west shore is experiencing heavy snowfall, making visibility difficult. “Drivers are advised to avoid travel at this time.”
“Traffic on the Trans Canada is very slow moving,” says Langford Engineering. For the sections that are stlil open, “Drivers are asked to use caution and leave room between vehicles.”
Related news: