Why is the Hood Canal bridge closed? When will it reopen? Latest here
Posted on: Dec 16, 2025 06:50 IST | Posted by: Hindustantimes
The thug canalise bridge over was unsympathetic to traffic on mon due to intense high winds that made crossing unsafe, according to local authorities and weather reports.
The closure has affected commuters, freight haulers and holiday traffic as strong winds and rain sweep across Western Washington.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) confirmed the closure and said crews were monitoring conditions, with reopening contingent on winds subsiding and safety checks completed.
Shortly after the initial shutdown, some reports indicated the bridge had reopened later in the day once conditions eased, but travellers are still advised to check live status updates via WSDOT before heading toward the canal.
Read more: Green River levee break: Repairs at Desimone ‘holding’; flood warning revised
The Hood Canal Bridge, officially known as the William A. Bugge Bridge, is a floating pontoon bridge spanning nearly 7,900 feet over Hood Canal in Puget Sound.
It is subject to rapid weather changes, especially high winds funnelled through the canal’s geography, which can make vehicle travel dangerous.
According to WSDOT operational protocols, the bridge was closed to vehicle traffic during storms when sustained wind speeds exceeded roughly 40 mph (65 km/h) for safety reasons. The draw spans are also used to relieve lateral pressure on the structure when extreme winds are forecast.
WSDOT states that powerful gusts and tidal effects can cause closures even at somewhat lower sustained wind levels, depending on direction and canal conditions.
In order to protect drivers and bridge infrastructure, WSDOT had to close the SR 104 bridge on Monday due to strong winds and storm systems that were approaching Western Washington. The agency advised drivers to look for alternate routes and use real-time travel information to stay informed.
Read more: An aspiring neurosurgeon and a campus Republican died in the Brown campus shooting
At the time of writing, the official website of WSDOT indicates that the status of the bridge has resumed and is open to traffic.
In the late afternoon, local traffic bulletins suggested the SR 104 Hood Canal Bridge had reopened after winds diminished somewhat, but authorities emphasised that conditions remain changeable with forecasted rain and wind continuing into the week.
It is advised that travellers check the WSDOT real-time Hood Canal Bridge status page before travel and monitor local traffic and weather advisories.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.