Traffic

Crews still removing debris from landslide that closed I-5 North near Bellingham

Officials were unable to provide an estimate Monday for the reopening of northbound Interstate 5 south of Bellingham after a March 19 landslide forced a closure of both lanes.

Drivers are being diverted off the freeway at North Lake Samish Road, exit 246. Southbound I-5 remains open.

An aerial image shows the landslide that closed I-5 northbound south of Bellingham on March 19, 2026.
An aerial image shows the landslide that closed I-5 northbound south of Bellingham on March 19, 2026. Thor Povlsen Courtesy to The Bellingham Herald

The Washington State Department of Transportation estimates about 2,000-3,000 cubic yards of debris came down in the landslide.

Crews were able to remove trees blocking the road Sunday, and are now working to remove rock and stabilize the slope, according to WSDOT.

An aerial image shows the landslide that closed I-5 northbound south of Bellingham on March 19, 2026.
An aerial image shows the landslide that closed I-5 northbound south of Bellingham on March 19, 2026. Thor Povlsen Courtesy to The Bellingham Herald

WSDOT encourages motorists to allow for extra time when traveling north and to take State Route 11 or 9. Updates will be provided throughout the week.

This story was originally published March 23, 2026 at 11:05 AM.

Profile Image of Jack Belcher
Jack Belcher
The Bellingham Herald
360-715-2206
Jack Belcher covers transportation and recreation for The Bellingham Herald. He graduated from Central Washington University with a degree in digital journalism in 2020 and joined the staff in September 2022. Belcher resides in Bellingham.
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