Yukon’s South Klondike Highway south of Carcross has been partially reopened to traffic, although officials have cautioned that it may close again without warning. The highway had been shut down for nearly 48 hours following two rock slides on Tuesday that caused debris to block the road between Carcross and the B.C. border.
Highway authorities announced that the road would be accessible from 1:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, with single-lane alternating traffic and reduced speed limits. Motorists were advised to anticipate delays as maintenance crews continue to operate in the region.
Bailey Moreton from the Department of Highways and Public Works explained that a temporary detour has been established around the landslide area to enable the flow of traffic. The highway is projected to fully reopen on Friday, operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. before closing overnight.
However, Moreton emphasized that the road’s closure could occur abruptly due to potential slope stability issues or adverse weather conditions. Drivers are urged to monitor updates on 511Yukon for the latest information.
Geologist Theron Finley, along with a colleague, visited the slide site to investigate the incident. Through the use of drones, they were able to observe the starting point of the slide on the high slope. Finley noted that the slides were likely triggered by heavy rainfall, causing debris flows to reach the highway.
The vulnerable nature of the highway in that area is attributed to the steep terrain adjacent to the road. Documenting and understanding these occurrences is crucial for collaborating with government agencies to address and mitigate geological hazards in the future.