Updated Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025
This is a developing story and will be updated as new information becomes available.
Highway 16 remains closed in both directions after a washout near Jungle Beach removed a section of roadway, cutting off access between Skidegate, Daajing Giids, and communities north of Lawn Hill.
The closure is in effect between Lawnhill Road and Miller Road, spanning approximately 5.3 kilometres, about 8 to 13 kilometres west of Skidegate. According to DriveBC, assessments are ongoing and there is no estimated time for reopening.
The Queen Charlotte mainline is also closed, meaning there is no detour available around the Highway 16 closure. As a result, Lawn Hill, Tlell, and northern communities remain isolated from Skidegate and Daajing Giids by road.
Tamara Davidson, the MLA for North Coast–Haida Gwaii, said she has been in contact with the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, the Ministry of Health and Northern Health to coordinate response efforts.
“They are all aware of the Highway 16 road closure on Haida Gwaii and are working to ensure public safety,” Davidson said, adding that local coordination is underway.
Emergency response efforts have expanded as access through Jungle Creek remains shut down. OMVC Emergency Services has activated an Emergency Operations Centre at Level 1 and is coordinating with the Village of Masset.
Food trucks arrived in Skidegate and are being held while a plan is finalized to transport food and supplies by barge or boat to the North End. Officials are asking residents to avoid panic buying, saying food and essential supplies are expected to be delivered within the next 24 to 36 hours.
First Nations Health Authority has a helicopter on standby for potential medical emergencies.
In Skidegate, Sk’aadgaa Naay Elementary School has opened its doors to residents and travellers stranded by the closure, offering a warm place to wait along with coffee and food. The Skidegate Band Council is also coordinating accommodation options in southern communities to assist those affected.
Ocean House and several local bed-and-breakfasts are opening rooms for people in need of accommodation due to the ongoing closure.
Taan Forest has issued a safety advisory stating that all access to back roads is closed due to multiple blockages and debris. The company said it is working with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to reopen roads when conditions allow.
Drivers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and continue monitoring official updates through DriveBC and local emergency services.
Highway 16 Closed After Washout Near Jungle Beach Cuts Off Northern Haida Gwaii
Next update expected at 5 p.m.
