A key highway on Vancouver Island that has been cut by wildfire activity will remain shut for at least another 10 days and may not be fully open until mid-July, dealing a blow to communities already facing major disruptions. The B.C. Ministry of Transport says crews are working to make Highway 4 safe by clearing debris and dangerous trees before installing protective measures, including a temporary wall to shield drivers from falling rubble. The highway is the only paved road linking the communities of Port Alberni, Ucluelet and Tofino with the rest of B.C., and they have been relying on a long, rough detour forgetting supplies including fuel and food. Highway 4 has been closed since June 6 when the small but aggressive Cameron Bluffs wildfire began in the steep hills above Highway 4. The ministry says a “phased reopening” will initially operate with single-lane-alternating-traffic as early as the weekend of June 24.
