A stretch of Highway 3 may be reopened as early as Boxing Day, according to the Ministry of Transportation and Transit. This stretch of highway, which was closed for several days due to heavy rain and flooding, could be accessible again by New Year's Day at the latest. The ministry initially estimated that it could take weeks to restore access, but repairs are progressing well. However, the highway won't fully reopen until the detour has been completed. In the meantime, drivers are advised to take an alternate route, as the closure is expected to cause heavier-than-normal traffic on highways 1 and 5. This isn't the only section of Highway 3 affected by recent flooding and slides. On Dec. 10, the highway was closed between Hope and Princeton due to an atmospheric river that led to flood advisories, watches, and warnings. While the ministry is working to complete repairs at all other sites affected by the flooding and slides, drivers should plan extra time for their journeys and drive with caution.