The Malahat is reopening to essential travelers Tuesday morning following an assessment of damage caused by Monday’s flooding.
Highway contractor Emcon Services Inc. says crews will be allowing single-lane alternating traffic through the area by 9:30 a.m. after a geotechnical assessment determined it is safe. Drive BC says essential travelers will be allowed through in 30 minute intervals and major delays are expected.
The stretch of highway between Finlayson Arm Road and Wellswood Road has been closed on and off since approximately 9 a.m. Monday morning when flooding swamped the road. Photos and videos from drivers who made it through before the initial closure showed water at times up to their vehicle bumpers.
READ ALSO: Throwback Thursday: 110 years since crews paved the Malahat
The highway was briefly reopened after crews managed to release some water off the road, but it was quickly closed again when they realized there could be further risk to drivers.
Shortly before 2 p.m. Monday, Emcon said it was working to remove the centre median to allow for water in the southbound lane to drain. By 5 p.m. though, it reported that a geotechnical assessment couldn’t confirm road stability at the time due to the large volumes of water remaining on the highway.
Crews were able to complete the assessment Tuesday morning though, and the highway has been deemed safe for travel.
READ ALSO: Flooding causes chaos, extensive evacuations and power outages for thousands in B.C.
READ ALSO: Chalet Road damaged as municipal crews tackle flooding across Saanich Peninsula
via @DriveBC – #BCHwy1 / #Malahat is open for 30 minute intervals to single lane alternating traffic at 9:30 AM for essential travel only. Watch for traffic control. Expect major delays.
#VanIsle
For more information: https://t.co/XdLlUvLQgG pic.twitter.com/Maq3BmWDJR— BC Transportation (@TranBC) November 16, 2021
Do you have a story tip? Email: vnc.editorial@blackpress.ca.
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
