Update

Around 2 p.m. on December 24, the B.C. government announced that the Alex Fraser Bridge had reopened.

"Snow, wind and extremely cold temperatures are in the forecast for the Lower Mainland into next week," the province stated. "Drivers are advised that bridges or highways may be closed as needed in order to prioritize driver and passenger safety."

Prior to heading out, motorists are being advised to check the DriveBC.ca website.

Original story

An important transportation route across the Fraser River has been shut down this morning (December 24) for safety reasons.

A buildup of snow on the cables of the Alex Fraser Bridge has elevated the risk of ice bombs falling on passing vehicles.

"With the high winds, rope technicians are unable to deploy the drop system that would normally clear the cables causing the likelihood that snow or ice may shed from the cables onto the lanes," the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure stated. "Conditions are being closely monitored. It’s not known how long the bridge closure will be."

The Alex Fraser Bridge connects North Delta with Richmond. In the past, ice bombs from the bridge have caused numerous ICBC claims.

This morning, Environment Canada forecast five centimetres of snow for Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.