Floodwaters surrounded buildings at Jem Farms near the Sumas border crossing in Abbotsford on Thursday, December 11, 2025, as heavy rain caused water levels to rise in the area. The Canadian Press
Heavy rain caused major travel trouble across British Columbia on Thursday. An atmospheric river dumped intense rainfall across the Fraser Valley. Flooding and landslides forced the province to close key transportation routes. Many travellers faced long delays and sudden detours.
Truck driver Jesse Haire experienced the disruption firsthand. He left Vancouver at 3:30 a.m. on a delivery bound for Whitehorse. His route along Highway 1 ended in Chilliwack. A mudslide blocked the road ahead and cut off his path. The closure added several hours to his journey.
“It’s been the trip from hell,” Haire said.
Highways Shut as Conditions Worsen
The storm forced the closure of several major highways. Highway 1 shut down east of Bridal Falls. Highway 3 closed between Hope and Princeton. Highway 99 closed east of Pemberton. A rock slide shut Highway 7 east of Agassiz. Highway 5 later reopened in both directions.
Transportation officials urged people to avoid travel. They warned that conditions could change quickly. Heavy rain reduced visibility. Pooling water caused localized flooding. Rising rivers increased the risk of washouts.
“All travellers should be aware that conditions can change rapidly,” the ministry said.
Flooding Hits Abbotsford and Border Areas
Floodwaters spread across parts of Abbotsford. Areas near the Sumas Prairie saw rising water levels. Several homes faced flood risk. One business evacuated as water moved closer. Emergency crews responded throughout the day.
The storm also disrupted rail service. A landslide damaged part of a freight rail line near the Sumas Prairie. The line carries farm goods and cross-border shipments. Crews worked to assess the damage and secure the area.
Cross-Border Travel Also Disrupted
Flooding affected travel between Canada and the United States. The Sumas border closed to commercial traffic. Officials asked drivers to avoid Highway 11. Flooding in Washington state worsened conditions.
Train service between Vancouver and Seattle stopped due to high water levels. Officials expected service to resume Friday if conditions improved.
Crews Assess Damage and Reopen Routes
Transportation crews worked through the storm. Engineers inspected highways from the ground and air. The transportation minister said damage remained limited. She compared the situation to the severe flooding of 2021.
“While there are road impacts, we are not near that level,” she said.
Crews confirmed no damage through the Fraser Canyon. Officials reopened Highway 1 fully in that area. Work began to clear rockfall on Highway 7. That road will reopen with alternating traffic.
More Rain on the Way
Weather forecasts show more rain ahead. Friday will bring additional showers. Saturday may offer brief relief with cloudy skies. Rain is expected to return Sunday and continue through midweek.
Officials continue to monitor conditions. Drivers should expect delays. Authorities urge caution across the region.
