Traffic has resumed on Highway 4 between Parksville and Port Alberni after a crash that blocked the road for several hours on Saturday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m., forcing drivers to wait in long lines as authorities worked to clear the scene. The closure caused significant delays for commuters and travelers in the area.
Initially, officials could not provide a time for when the highway would reopen. DriveBC, the provincial traffic service, had announced that an update on the closure would be available at 7 p.m. However, earlier updates indicated the information might not include a clear reopening time.
The crash created confusion for drivers looking for alternate routes. DriveBC did not post any official detours, leaving many travelers uncertain about how to bypass the blocked stretch. Social media users shared that some drivers were turned back after reaching the closure due to the long wait times.
Highway 4 is a key route connecting the city of Parksville on Vancouver Island’s east coast to Port Alberni in the west. The closure highlighted the impact of road incidents on local traffic, particularly on routes with limited alternative paths.
Local authorities advised drivers to allow extra travel time and remain patient while crews handled the crash. Emergency responders worked quickly to ensure safety and reopen the road as soon as possible.
Officials did not immediately release details about the crash, including the number of vehicles involved or whether there were any injuries. Investigations were ongoing, and authorities urged drivers to continue monitoring traffic updates through official channels.
With Highway 4 now reopened, traffic is returning to normal, though travelers are advised to remain cautious and alert, as cleanup and any investigation-related activities may still be in progress near the crash site.
The incident underscores the importance of road safety and the potential for major disruptions when accidents occur on heavily used highways. Drivers are reminded to follow traffic updates and plan trips accordingly to avoid delays in case of unexpected road closures.
Authorities continue to stress the need for careful driving, especially on routes with higher accident risks or limited alternative paths. Motorists are encouraged to drive responsibly and be prepared for delays when traveling through areas prone to crashes.
