The closure was announced at 7:00 p.m. after an afternoon of whiteout conditions

The highway has been closed in both directions due to "extreme winter conditions."

HOPE (NEWS 1130) — The highway has been closed in both directions due to “extreme winter conditions.”

The provincial transportation ministry is asking people to avoid all unnecessary travel.

#BCHwy1 – Closed in both directions due to extreme winter conditions between #Chilliwack and #HopeBC. Avoid all unnecessary travel if possible. Major delays and congestion within the corridor. Exercise caution and watch for emergency vehicles and crews. #FraserValley #BCStorm — Drive BC (@DriveBC) January 13, 2020

White-out conditions through the Fraser Valley east of Abbotsford began Sunday afternoon.

Reports on social media suggest a multi-car pile-up — involving dozens of vehicles — just east of Hope.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure says there is no estimated time for reopening.

“A vehicle incident eastbound on Highway 1 at Herrling Island has prompted the closure of Highway 1 in both directions between Chilliwack and Hope. The closure was implemented by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure at the request of the RCMP,” reads a statement.