Highway washouts isolate parts of Haida Gwaii and northwest B.C. after torrential rain

Sections of Highway 16 in Haida Gwaii and northwest British Columbia have been washed out following days of intense rainfall linked to an atmospheric river system, leaving communities isolated and critical routes impassable.

On Haida Gwaii, a major washout forced the closure of Highway 16 between Lawnhill Road and Miller Road, cutting a 5.3-kilometre stretch of the island’s primary north–south corridor. As of Tuesday morning, no detour was available, and transportation officials said an update on reopening timelines was expected later in the day.

Local residents say the closure has severed access between communities, affecting travel to hospitals, essential services and infrastructure across the archipelago. The Haida Nation issued a warning Monday describing “extreme flooding” in several areas, including Skidegate, Daajing Giids and surrounding backroads.

The Nation said temporary shelter resources are available at both the northern and southern ends of Haida Gwaii for anyone displaced or unable to travel due to flooded roads.

The storm has also caused significant damage on the mainland. Highway 16 — also known as the Yellowhead Highway — is closed for roughly 42 kilometres between Prince Rupert and Terrace after another washout. There is no detour for that stretch, further complicating travel and supply routes in the region.

Rainfall totals have been exceptionally high. Weather stations reported up to 180 millimetres of rain at Green Island Lighthouse off the North Coast, while parts of Haida Gwaii recorded as much as 148 millimetres. Although rainfall warnings have been lifted for Haida Gwaii and Prince Rupert, they remain in effect for inland areas of the North Coast, including Kitimat.

Forecasters say the atmospheric river stalled over the region, bringing prolonged periods of rain. Additional rainfall of 20 to 30 millimetres was expected before conditions eased to lighter showers Tuesday night.

Emergency access concerns

The highway damage comes as the Northern Haida Gwaii Hospital in Masset continues a series of emergency room diversions. Until Jan. 4, the ER is diverting patients during afternoon and evening hours, meaning anyone requiring urgent care outside limited daytime hours must be redirected south to the hospital in Daajing Giids.

Health officials say they are exploring air ambulance options and are aware that washed-out highways are complicating ground transportation between communities.

A flood watch remains in effect for Haida Gwaii and the North Coast, with river levels expected to rise quickly due to heavy rain and snowmelt at higher elevations. Provincial forecasters warn of swift water, further road washouts and an increased risk of landslides.

Meanwhile, winter weather is adding to travel concerns elsewhere in the region. Snowfall of up to 20 centimetres is forecast along northern highway routes connecting the Alaskan Panhandle and Yukon, as well as in mountainous areas near the B.C.–Yukon border.

Officials are urging residents to avoid flooded roads, monitor conditions closely and be prepared for further disruptions as cleanup and assessments continue.