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Highway in B.C. Reopens After Atmospheric Rivers Washed Out Sections

The Ministry of Transportation and Transit announced on Dec. 25, 2025, that Highway 3 reopened between Hope and Princeton following the Dec. 16 washout, crediting the "around-the-clock efforts of ministry contractors and the availability of materials."
An atmospheric river on Dec. 16 caused the washout, including five culvert failures requiring excavation and full culvert replacement by BC government crews.
A temporary single‑lane detour now runs with a 30 km/h speed limit, and drivers heading west are held 500 metres east of the slide site 42 km east of the Highway 3 and 5 junction.
The ministry recommends commercial vehicle drivers use alternate routes between the Lower Mainland and southern Interior until two‑lane traffic restoration, and officials said the temporary detour alignment will stay until permanent repairs finish.
Long‑term work will require significant design and reconstruction, and drivers are reminded to prepare for sudden closures by packing warm clothes, snacks and water and ensuring a full fuel tank or EV battery charge.

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