Sea to Sky Highway closed after devastating mudslide in British Columbia

In early December 2024, British Columbia experienced severe weather, leading to a windstorm that caused significant damage. The storm affected various regions, including Lions Bay, a village north of Vancouver. Over the weekend, torrents of mud fell into the area, resulting in the destruction of a home and one confirmed death. A resident was killed due to the mudslide, while search and rescue teams were tasked with locating two people unaccounted for at the time. The mudslide also temporarily blocked the Sea to Sky highway, which connects Vancouver and Whistler, creating difficulties for travelers. While the highway was eventually cleared for travel, investigations began into the risks posed by geological hazards in the region. Authorities reviewed the situation to determine whether preventative measures could have been implemented. An assessment published by Cordilleran Geoscience in 2018 identified the area surrounding Lions Bay as vulnerable to multiple geohazards, emphasizing the need for real estate developers to conduct risk assessments. However, village Mayor Ken Berry noted he was unfamiliar with the report and was focused on current rescue efforts. As climate change intensifies storms in southern British Columbia, experts warn that many communities may face increased risks of landslides. The process of searching for the missing individuals involves local authorities, including the RCMP and emergency services, who have deployed heavy-duty equipment and personnel to assist in recovery efforts. Despite the challenges, the local community's focus remains on ensuring safety and providing support to those affected. There is a call for better mapping of logging roads in the regions, many of which are unmaintained and pose risks for landslides. Experts have urged the provincial government to use technology such as LiDAR to identify these areas and prioritize resources to mitigate future incidents. As the rescue operations continue, the people of British Columbia reflect on the implications of climate change and the structural vulnerabilities within their communities. The collaborative effort from local and provincial agencies aims to address these risks and enhance disaster preparedness moving forward.