Landslide closes B.C.'s Sea to Sky Highway; reception centre opened for stranded travellers

A landslide shut down the Sea to Sky Highway in both directions near Lions Bay Saturday morning, and authorities expected the road to remain closed for at least the rest of the day.

There have been no reported injuries thus far, according to local RCMP, who say emergency crews are working to assess damage and confirm if anyone was hurt.

A geotechnical assessment is being performed via helicopter, transportation officials said.

Paramedics also responded to the incident, BC Emergency Health Services told CTV News.

“At this time, we are not aware of any injuries and have not treated or transported any patients related the landslide,” a spokesperson wrote. “Our teams are working to minimize the disruptions to other patients and our staff in the area.” 

Drivers caught in traffic posted photos to social media showing a pile of trees blocking the road.

Police say the highway is not expected to open back up until midnight, and there are no detours.

North Shore Emergency Management opened a reception centre for travellers stranded by the landslide at Lions Gate Community and Recreation Centre in North Vancouver. 

The agency was also offering information and support for North Shore residents whose homes were damaged and "deemed uninhabitable" due to Saturday's windstorm. Those affected were asked to leave a message with NSEM at 778-338-6302.

On the north side of the slide, Mounties set up a checkpoint in Squamish to prevent travellers from attempting to drive south toward Metro Vancouver.

"There is no estimated time of reopening," DriveBC said late Saturday afternoon. 

"If you are leaving Whistler right now, you will not get through."

The Resort Municipality of Whistler said on social media that "options for overnight shelter" would be made available "before evening." 

As of 6 p.m., however, the municipality's website only had a statement advising those who are able to find accommodation in a hotel or with friends and family.

Whistler said further updates would be provided on its website.  

Wind warnings from Environment Canada are in effect for most of B.C.’s South Coast Saturday, with forecasters saying to expect up to 100 km/h gusts.