Wildfires across the province and construction have also led to major road closures and delays for the August long weekend.
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The August long weekend is perfect for a summer getaway, but if you’re travelling in B.C. you should first check for major highway closures and delays.
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Wildfires have led to several highway closures, while officials are warning drivers about major delays on the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) this weekend between Hope and Merritt because of drainage construction.
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Lane closures will be in place in the area due to hazards within the closed lane and cannot be removed during the long weekend, B.C.’s Transportation Ministry said Friday.
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With increased holiday traffic, the continued closure of Highway 1, wildfire activity and evacuations affecting other major routes, traffic volumes on the Coquihalla Highway are expected to be higher than normal, particularly on Friday and Monday, the ministry added.
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Officials say travellers should plan ahead and expect significant delays, and ensure their vehicle has a full battery charge or a full tank of gas before leaving. Drivers are also asked to carry plenty of drinking water and food.
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Highway 1 is closed in the Fraser Canyon because of the Brunswick Complex wildfires. As of Friday there were closures on Highway 1 from the Alexandra Bridge, 44 kilometres north of Hope, to Jackass Summit, 25 kilometres south of Lytton.
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There is no estimated time for reopening, and the closure will remain in place until it is safe to reopen the corridor, according to Drive B.C.
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The alternative is Highway 5, where there will be construction delays.
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Another alternative is Highway 3 east of Hope, which reopened Tuesday. However, transportation officials said fire crews are still working between Skagit Bridge and Cayuse Flats.
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Closures could happen again on very short notice with a return of flagpersons and traffic control devices if conditions worsen, an advisory on Drive B.C. stated.
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Highway 97 is also closed through the Clinton area, where the Pear Lake wildfire has led to eight evacuation orders affecting thousands of residents.
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The B.C. Wildfire Service says ongoing drought combined with hot, dry weather means more wildfires could start or spread this long weekend.
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