RCMP Warn Against Travel as Spring Snowstorm Batters Eastern Alberta

Alberta RCMP are urging motorists to avoid travel across eastern Alberta as a powerful spring snowstorm continues to hammer the province, creating whiteout conditions, road closures and leaving hundreds of motorists stranded.

Police said heavy snowfall, high winds and blowing snow have made travel extremely hazardous, with multiple collisions reported across the region. Emergency crews are dealing with a high volume of calls, and response times may be delayed.

The most serious conditions are in northeastern Alberta, where Highway 63 and Highway 881 remain heavily impacted.

Current closures include:

• Highway 63 northbound from Wandering River to Fort McMurray due to hazardous road conditions.

• Highway 63 in both directions between south of Mariana Lake and Fort McMurray.

• Highway 881 north and south of Imperial Mills following a collision.

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RCMP announced Highway 63 would be fully closed Friday evening. Northbound traffic is being stopped at Wandering River by Alberta Sheriffs, while southbound traffic is being halted at the Highway 881 junction by Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo bylaw officers. Highway 881 remains closed north of Imperial Mills.

Approximately 300 vehicles are believed to be stranded along Highway 63, according to Wood Buffalo RCMP.

Snowdrifts measuring two to three feet have slowed efforts to clear the highway. Snowplows, tow trucks and RCMP continue working to assist stranded motorists and reopen the route. The HERO Foundation also conducted an aerial survey to help assess the situation.

RCMP are advising stranded motorists to remain with their vehicles. Emergency crews, tow operators, snowplows and sanding trucks are actively working throughout the affected areas.

Drivers are also being reminded to carry emergency supplies, including blankets, food, water and a winter survival kit and to postpone all non-essential travel until conditions improve.

Central Alberta is also seeing deteriorating travel conditions. Areas around Stettler, Hanna and Coronation are experiencing blowing snow, reduced visibility and icy highways as the storm moves through the region.

Motorists travelling on Highways 12, 9, 36 and surrounding secondary roads should use extreme caution and check current conditions before departing. Conditions can change rapidly.

Anyone facing an emergency should call 911. Up-to-date highway information is available through Alberta 511.