The Alaska Highway near Beaver Creek in the Yukon is currently flooded, prompting officials to shut down the road from the U.S. border to Canada’s Beaver Creek customs office. Julia Duchesne, a spokesperson for the government’s Emergency Coordination Centre, mentioned that crews are on-site addressing the issue, but the duration of the closure remains uncertain pending further investigation into the cause.
Duchesne explained that the spring thaw could lead to water accumulation on the highway through various means such as overflowing ditches or washed-out culverts. She highlighted concerns raised by the hydrology team in April regarding the heightened risk posed by steep streams intersecting roads and highways due to the widespread snowpack in the region.
Chelsea Johnny, an employee at the Beaver Creek visitor information center, noted signs of road shifting, indicating potential delays for stranded tourists until the highway is reopened. Duchesne advised drivers to visit 511yukon.ca for real-time updates on road conditions, emphasizing the importance of respecting barricades for both personal safety and the well-being of maintenance crews.
Territorial authorities assured the public that an official report on road status would be available before 2 p.m. on Monday, urging travelers to remain patient and comply with safety measures during the closure period.
