November 14th marks one year since the atmospheric river of 2021 that flooded homes and communities, destroyed infrastructure, and left a trail of devastation in its path. Almost all roads and highways that connect the Interior to the Coast were extremely damaged, and in some cases obliterated, severing access to the Port of Vancouver. While all major inland routes were damaged, goods kept moving. Commercial drivers worked diligently to navigate new and extended routes to ensure essentials got to those people that needed it most – and for that we are grateful!

Significant progress has been made since with rebuilding of BC’s infrastructure. Emergency response workers and road crews worked at unprecedented speeds to restore our highways and continue to do so as permanent repairs and improvements occur.  Regular updates from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure regarding the status of highways have not been uncommon over the past year, with the latest regarding Highway 8.

Highway 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge is now open to all vehicle traffic. November 2021’s heavy rains and flooding destroyed more than 25 sections of the highway, leading to the closure between Merritt and Spences Bridge. More than seven kilometres of Highway 8 was lost due to the event.

Please note that while temporary repairs are complete, Highway 8 remains an active construction zone. Crews continue to install roadside barriers, place riprap (large rocks) to stabilize road embankments and process rock to undertake permanent repairs along the corridor. Some sections of the highway have reduced speed limits and differing surface materials, including sections of gravel road. Ongoing construction will lead to delays and intermittent closures. Please continue to follow DriveBC.ca for conditions and events that may be affecting Highway 8.

*Image courtesy of Government of BC