The Alberta RCMP issued a province-wide travel warning on Wednesday afternoon due to dangerous whiteout conditions caused by heavy snowfall and strong winds, with gusts forecast to reach 130 km/hr in some areas.
Widespread Travel Disruptions
Initially issued for southern Alberta, the travel advisory was expanded around 1 p.m. to include central and northern regions of the province. The hazardous conditions led to numerous collisions, prompting the RCMP to temporarily close the QEII highway – a major roadway – between Calgary and Red Deer.
By 5 p.m., RCMP confirmed that most vehicles had been cleared and the majority of the QEII highway reopened, with the exception of the significant pileup south of Airdrie. “We have about 80 to 100 vehicles involved in that one,” said RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney, describing numerous jackknifed semi-trucks and widespread backups.
Photos and videos shared on social media by motorists depict vehicles in ditches and multiple-vehicle crashes, illustrating the severity of the conditions. Environment Canada has issued blowing snow advisories for much of southern Alberta, with wind gusts up to 100 km/hr along the QEII south of Calgary and up to 130 km/hr in the Crowsnest Pass.
Warnings and Safety Concerns
The Edmonton area is under a heavy snowfall warning, anticipating up to 30 cm of snow by Wednesday evening. Further east, near the Saskatchewan border, a winter storm warning is in effect, forecasting freezing rain transitioning to heavy snow and strong winds.
Cpl. Slaney emphasized the risk to first responders and emergency services, stating, “It’s not worth risking the lives of all the first responders and emergency services that have to go and help you if you get in a collision or get stuck.” She directly urged residents: “Just stay home. It is not worth your life.”
The RCMP also advised anyone who must travel to be fully prepared, acknowledging that emergency response times will likely be significantly delayed due to the hazardous road conditions.
Looking Ahead
While no timeline was provided for the full reopening of the QEII highway, the RCMP directed motorists to 511Alberta for the most current highway condition updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the travel advisory?
The Alberta RCMP issued the travel advisory due to whiteout conditions caused by falling snow and strong wind gusts, with some areas experiencing winds up to 130 km/hr.
Which highways are affected?
The travel advisory covers all highways in Alberta. The QEII highway between Calgary and Red Deer was temporarily closed, with a significant pileup remaining on the southbound lanes between Airdrie and Calgary as of 5 p.m.
What is the RCMP’s advice to motorists?
The RCMP is advising motorists to avoid all non-essential travel. If travel is necessary, they urge individuals to be prepared for delays and potential emergencies, and to check conditions at 511Alberta.
Given the ongoing and widespread nature of the storm, what steps are you taking to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you?
