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Long lines at BC Ferries, busy roads as British Columbians travel for the long weekend

Click to play video: 'Vancouver Island-bound ferry sailings extremely busy at start of August-long weekend'
Vancouver Island-bound ferry sailings extremely busy at start of August-long weekend
The August long weekend has normally always been the busiest travel weekend of the year in B.C., particularly for those catching a ferry. But many have been surprised by just how long the waits have been for those heading to Vancouver Island. Not just today, but since Thursday. John Hua reports from Tsawwassen. – Jul 30, 2021

Lineups were already forming at ferry terminals Friday morning as people aim to get away for the long weekend.

Sailings from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay and Duke Point are already full for Friday and most of Saturday.

In addition, some sailings were delayed Friday morning due to staffing issues and heavy traffic outside of the terminal.

Masks are not mandatory on BC Ferries but they are recommended, especially for anyone who is not double-vaccinated.

Anyone travelling without a reservation should expect to be waiting for a few sailings, BC Ferries has warned.

Click to play video: 'Demand for domestic travel ramps up'
Demand for domestic travel ramps up

But with the long weekend and travel restrictions lifted for most of the province, the roads are likely to be busy as well.

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Health officials are reminding people not to travel to the Central Okanagan unless they have received two doses of the COVID vaccine, due to a spike in cases there.

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“We’re happy to have you come, fully vaccinated,” provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said Thursday. “When you’re here, we expect everyone to take the measures here in British Columbia, both to protect people from wildfires, from the smoke, and also from COVID-19.”

Wildfire officials are also reminding people not to travel to any area that is under an evacuation order or alert.

There are still 242 wildfires burning in B.C. with 36 of them being wildfires of note.

Wildfire crews are hoping for cooler temperatures out of the heat wave which is expected to alleviate on Saturday.

Click to play video: 'Residents who refuse to evacuate hinder the wildfire fight'
Residents who refuse to evacuate hinder the wildfire fight

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