Drivers are advised that Highway 1 north of Hope and Highway 5 (Coquihalla) are fully closed in both directions due to heavy snowfall. The length of the closure of Highway 1 is unknown at this time, however the Coquihalla is expected to open at 5 p.m.

These temporary highway closures are necessary for the safety of the travelling public. Heavy snowfall in the Southern Interior region has totalled over 30 centimetres in five hours, and while our maintenance crews are doing everything possible to clear the roads with heavy snow expected until 10 p.m. tonight. The ministry has deployed over 25 snow plows, graders and other equipment, and will continue to work around the clock to clear the roads for drivers.

Motorists are encouraged to revise travel plans if they are heading north of Hope on Highway 1 or northeast on Highway 5.

Motorists are reminded to use extreme caution or consider alternative plans. If you do need to travel on these routes, motorists should use extra caution, increase their following distance and keep a safe distance from snow plows.

The ministry would like to remind motorists that winter tires are mandatory for travel on the Coquihalla and Highway 1 from Oct. 1 to March 31. Winter tires are defined as those labelled with either the Mountain Snowflake symbol or the Mud and Snow (M+S) symbol. Winter tires must be in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 mm.

Please check www.drivebc.ca for up-to-date traffic advisories.

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