Driving conditions in the eastern half of Langley are challenging, and nowhere is that more the case than on Highway 1.
RCMP began advising drivers on Monday afternoon to stay off the highway east of 232 Street, as there have been dozens of crashes. More were expected, given winter weather conditions.
Much more snow has fallen in the eastern half of Langley than in the western corridor along 200 Street.
The highway remains open, but police advise drivers to stay home if they don’t have to travel. More snow is expected to fall on several more days this week.
On Monday afternoon, a jack-knifed semi-trailer truck blocked 16 Avenue near 244 Street, shutting down another crucial east-west route in Langley.
Sgt. Peter Thiessen said police instructed tow companies not to remove vehicles that had gone off the road at this point; only to remove those that were a hazard to traffic flow.
“I want to remind drivers that they are required by law to slow down when passing emergency vehicles pulled over on the side of the road, or tow trucks,” he said.
Abbotsford Police Const. Ian MacDonald said the roads have been busy with “dozens” of vehicles sliding off the road or getting stuck.
MacDonald cautioned drivers to be prepared if they are venturing out.
“If your vehicle isn’t properly equipped for these kind of roads, it’s a good day to make a snowman,” he said.
For road conditions see the website: drivebc.ca