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UPDATE: Highway 3, Kootenay Pass remains closed due to avalanche hazard

The road is expected to re-open at 6p.m. on Wednesday, January 8, 2020.
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Highway 3 through Kootenay Pass remains closed today due to a high avalanche hazard between West Avalanche Gate and East Avalanche Gate for 18 km. The road is closed and an assessment is in progress. Drive BC says that the estimated time of re-opening in Wednesday, January 8 at 6 p.m..

According to Drive BC, motorists can detour from Nelson to Creston, although the estimated Kootenay Lake ferry travel time is 2.5 hours. Be sure to check Drive BC for updates.

Avalanche Canada is also reporting high danger ratings in the Kootenay Boundary region for the next two days.

“Intense stormy conditions are expected for Tuesday. Natural and human triggered avalanches will be very likely to occur and they could reach the valley bottom. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended,” says Avalanche Canada.

Winter storm warnings have swept across the province over the past several days, and Environment Canada is issuing several winter storm and snowfall warnings across the Kootenay region. Motorists are urged to drive with caution as rapidly changing conditions are forecasted.

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corey.bullock@kimberleybulletin.com

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Corey Bullock

About the Author: Corey Bullock

Corey Bullock is a multimedia journalist and writer who grew up in Burlington, Ontario.
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