A significant rockslide in Sinclair Canyon has led to the ongoing closure of BC Highway 93S and the popular Radium Hot Springs pools, disrupting travel and leisure activities in the region. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, prompted immediate action from authorities to ensure public safety.
Closure Details and Detour Information
Highway 93S has been shut down in both directions between the Kootenay National Park west boundary and the McKay Creek Operations Centre. For those needing to travel through the area, a detour is currently in place via BC Highway 95 and Highway 1 through Yoho National Park. This alternative route is expected to add extra travel time for commuters and tourists alike.
Impact on Radium Hot Springs
In addition to the highway closure, the Radium Hot Springs pools have also been closed as a precautionary measure. This closure affects visitors who frequent the hot springs for relaxation and recreation, highlighting the broader impact of the rockslide on local amenities.
Safety Measures and Ongoing Work
Parks Canada is actively conducting geotechnical assessments and removing loose rock from the area to mitigate the risk of future landslides. The agency has emphasized that the highway will only reopen once the threat to public safety has been sufficiently addressed. In a social media update, Kootenay National Park stated, "Highway 93S will reopen once the risk to public safety has been sufficiently mitigated."
Updates and Recommendations
The park authority plans to provide a further update on the situation this Friday. In the meantime, travelers are advised to:
- Check provincial road dashboards for real-time information before embarking on journeys.
- Ensure vehicles have a full gas tank or charged battery.
- Pack an emergency kit that includes warm clothing, food, water, and other essentials.
This rockslide serves as a reminder of the natural hazards present in mountainous regions and the importance of preparedness when traveling through such areas. The closures are expected to remain in effect until safety evaluations are complete and all necessary precautions have been taken.
