Extreme Flooding on Haida Gwaii
This page will be continue to be updated when information is available.
Update from December 30 at 5:45pm
Highway 16 between HlGaagilda and Tllaal is open! Reminder that it is single lane alternating. Watch for traffic control.
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Update from December 30 at 2:30pm
Work is currently being done to open up the highway by this evening to restore one lane. Stay updated through the Drive BC website for the official opening at: https://www.drivebc.ca/?pan=-131.79814677766586%2C53.17777001001272&zoom=8.871168912717685&type=event&id=DBC-85284&display_category=closures
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Nature of Flooding
Haida Gwaii has experienced high levels of rain after heavy levels of snow. These events have caused washouts across Haida Gwaii specifically near Xyangt’is Jungle Beach and the backroads between Daajing Giids and ‘Wáan Kún Port Clements. There is also multiple areas of flooding on the roads of Oceanview Drive in Daajing Giids, Front Street in HlGaagilda Skidegate and the highway between ‘Wáan Kún and Tllaal Tlell.
Highway Closure - Now Reopened!
Highway 16 has been reopened as of December 30 at 5:45pm. It was closed in both directions due to a washout between Lawnhill Rd and Miller Rd for 5.3km since the evening of December 28. Crews have assessed the situation and with the lower water levels they were able to add in a temporary overflow culvert. Assessment will be done for a more permanent solution.
Backroads and Remote Routes
Be aware that backroads and remote routes are not safe alternatives. Conditions are unstable, many forest service roads are inaccessible or impassable, and attempting to use them may put individuals at serious risk and impede emergency response efforts. As of December 30, the backroads are still unsafe to explore.
How You Can Support
We ask that the public to:
Avoid attempting to bypass the closure via backroads or trails.
Follow all traffic control and signage.
Monitor official channels for updates.
Stay Updated!
For ongoing updates, see:
Contacts
Ministry of Transportation - Skeena Office: 250-615-3970
Health Emergency Management BC - 24/7 On-call: 1-855-554-3622
Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs)
Old Massett Village Council + Village of Masset: Level 1
Phone: 250-626-7293
Port Clements Village Council: Level 1
Phone: 250-557-4295
Email:office@portclements.ca
Skidegate Band Council + Village of Daajing Giids: Level 1
North Coast Regional District: Level 1
Phone: 250-624-2002