Drivers in Saskatchewan haven't pumped the brakes when it comes to keeping informed about road conditions, quite the opposite in fact, as the Ministry of Highways is reporting that the total number of visitors to the Highway Hotlines digital platforms have surpassed records set in years prior.
Between April 2024 and March 2025, the provincial road information service accumulated over 60 million pageviews, with a full third of the total coming from the mobile app. The ministry attributes the accelerated usage of the service to the particularly stormy winter experienced in the province.
Usage of the service blew the doors off the previous record, past 2023-24's record-high 10 million online pageviews, while mobile app usage increased nearly seven-fold.
"Thank you to all drivers who take the time to check the Highway Hotline to make an informed decision before heading out on the road," Highways Minister David Marit said.
"Understanding what may be on the road ahead can help you plan safer and more efficient trips, which supports our quality of life and export-based economy."
The Highway Hotline service rolled out over 50 years ago as a telephone service and continues to provide the service via automated audio reports of road conditions by dialing 1-888-335-7635 (across Canada) or 511 (in Saskatchewan). The service receives approximately 33,000 calls per year.
The service has seen some new additions over the years, including the creation of a free mobile app—available through the Google Play and Apple online stores—and boasts 50 camera locations which can be viewed in real time. The Track My Plow feature allows motorists to track snowplow progress and maneuver into a freshly cleared lane.
The Highway Hotline can be checked year-round, as it provides information on construction zones, weather conditions, ferry crossings and parks alongside closures and vehicle collisions, and grass and forest fires.