Sooke announces temporary closure of Whiffin Spit due to storm surge

The District of Sooke has announced the temporary closure of Whiffin Spit due to a storm surge. 

The area will be closed to the public starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, December 14th as a proactive safety measure. 

The closure comes in response to a significant weather event forecasted to bring high waves and elevated ocean water levels to the area, and conditions along the shoreline are expected to be hazardous.

Environment Canada has issued a warning for waves up to 7 metres high, with ocean water levels potentially rising 50 or more centimetres above the highest astronomical tide. 

The storm surge is expected to coincide with midday’s high tide, increasing the likelihood of coastal flooding and dangerous wave activity, especially in low-lying areas.

A site assessment will be conducted at 3 p.m. on Saturday to determine if the public can safely return to the area later in the day. 

Visitors are advised to stay away from Whiffin Spit and any other coastal areas affected by the storm during this closure.

If you wish to learn more about staying safe along the coast during storm surges, you can visit Coast Smart’s website. 

Once the storm passes and Whiffin Spit reopens, visitors should be aware that there may be debris along the path due to the storm’s impact. 

Full maintenance, including clearing larger debris, is scheduled for early spring 2025, once the storm season has subsided.

Stay safe!