India, Dec. 16 -- The Hood Canal Bridge was closed to traffic on Monday 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.

The Hood Can...