Coquihalla now open after night of crashes, closures and harsh conditions

MERRITT – The Coquihalla highway has reopened after several collisions and harsh winter driving conditions caused delays and multiple closures of the mountain pass last night.

As of 10:35 a.m. today, Feb.11, Highway 5 is open.

DriveBC first reported heavy traffic and delays at Great Bear Snowshed at 8 p.m. last night, Feb. 10. Shortly after that, a crash closed Highway 5 southbound at Coldwater Interchange, exit 286, south of Merritt at 8:36 p.m. There was no detour at the time.

At 8:57 p.m., Highway 5 was closed in both directions from Portia Interchange, exit 202, to Merritt because of severe winter conditions. The highway remained closed overnight.

According to DriveBC, crews were actively clearing traffic queues and accessing blocked vehicles during the closures.

Traffic started moving again this morning, Feb. 11 at 4:09 a.m., southbound at Coldwater Interchange, exit 286.

Stalled motorists took to social media, posting photos and videos of the ordeal.

Just because it said it was open, doesn't mean you should go. #coquihalla @DriveBC #whatamess #driversafety pic.twitter.com/bSXRdWLi8T

— Jess Trukker (@Jesstrukker) February 11, 2017

Current standstill on the #coquihalla. #notimpressed. #6hoursandcounting pic.twitter.com/UaFcxiYfW1

— Margaret McCormick (@mmccormi) February 11, 2017

The #coquihalla has been at a standstill going on for a hour @DriveBC @KGordonGlobalBC The wind is picking up too pic.twitter.com/wd6xI56oKU

— Dave B (@DavidButt1) February 11, 2017

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