The Coquihalla is closed in both directions between Hope and Merritt due to what Drive BC calls a multi-vehicle incident.

The southbound lanes of the highway have been closed since about 6 p.m. with the northbound lanes closed around 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Drive BC says there are reports of spun out vehicles on the highway.

“Winter conditions exist on mountain passes like the Coquihalla which is currently closed due to spun out vehicles and vehicle incidents,” Drive BC said in a 6:46 p.m. statement.

Webcams on the Coquihalla showed a number of vehicles stranded with owing to the winter conditions. Environment Canada was calling for as much as 25 centimetres of snow brought on by a late season snow storm.

The heaviest snow was expected Friday night into Saturday, before easing off into Sunday.

⛔ UPDATE #BCHwy5 – #Coquihalla remains CLOSED in both directions between #HopeBC & #MerrittBC.
Assessment continues, expect delays and congestion.
Next update at approximately 12:00 AM.

ℹ️ Information & updates:https://t.co/BqwlTOu8Qqhttps://t.co/3FKK4hMWQt pic.twitter.com/NzbgvT3avW

— DriveBC (@DriveBC) April 2, 2023

“A strong frontal system is spreading moderate to heavy snow to the Coquihalla Highway. Freezing levels are expected to remain below summit level through the event,” Environment Canada said in its forecast Saturday. “Moderate to heavy snowfall rates will persist much of the day and evening.”

“Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. Weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions.”

It’s unclear when the highway might reopen. Drive BC says the next update is expected around midnight.

While some winter tire restrictions ended today, winter tires are required on the Coquihalla until the end of April.