The Cameron Bluffs wildfire burning close to Hwy. 4 is believed responsible for tree and rock slides on Hwy. 4, severing access between Port Alberni and Oceanside. (BC Government)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

reconnected

Detour established around Cameron Lake wildfire & Hwy. 4 closure

Jun 7, 2023 | 12:22 PM

NANAIMO — Vancouver Island’s east and west are connected once more.

The provincial government say they’ve established a detour route between Port Alberni and eastern Vancouver Island, via Lake Cowichan, which will skirt stranded travellers around an active wildfire and related highway closure.

“The detour will route traffic from Port Alberni through to Lake Cowichan via Bamfield using forest-service and privately owned industrial roads,” the province said in a release. The gravel detour route has narrow sections, sharp curves, single-lane bridges and challenging terrain.”

The route will eventually connect travellers to Hwy. 1 between Duncan and Nanaimo.

It’s estimated the detour will add four hours of travel time and will be in place until Hwy. 4 can be re-opened. No timeline for a resumption of travel along Hwy. 4 is available.

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No cell service, gas stations or washroom facilities will be available on the temporary route.

“Regular passenger vehicles, such as cars, vans and commercial vehicles weighing less than 14,500 kilograms, can travel through the detour corridor,” the province added. “No over-height or over-weight vehicles will be permitted.”

Signage is going in place Wednesday to help direct travellers.

Information checkpoints for travellers will be set up at Youbou Road near Lake Cowichan and at Hwy. 4 at Aspeden Road near Port Alberni.

The province is urging caution and patience for those who have to use the route. For others, it’s recommended they wait.

“Drivers should fuel up, bring extra supplies, food and water to be prepared for the high temperatures at this time of year, and note that conditions can change quickly. Drivers are encouraged to plan trips during daylight hours and to drive with caution.”

A map of the detour connecting Port Alberni with Lake Cowichan, and eventually, eastern Vancouver Island. (Google Maps)

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