Alberta RCMP are urging motorists to stay off the roads as treacherous driving conditions caused by bad weather led to numerous motor vehicle collisions across the province yesterday evening.
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RCMP are stressing the importance of following travel advisories and staying off the roads when conditions are hazardous.
"When it is advised not to travel, please take this advice seriously," said the RCMP. "Not only are you putting your own life at risk, but also the lives of others, including first responders."
From noon on January 16 to 8 a.m. on January 17, RCMP responded to 149 reported collisions, most of which occurred in central Alberta. The collisions caused property damage and several injuries.
The breakdown of reported collisions is as follows:
- Central Alberta District: 71 collisions (3 injuries, 68 property damage)
- Eastern Alberta District: 28 collisions (all property damage)
- Southern Alberta District: 24 collisions (1 injury, 23 property damage)
- Western Alberta District: 26 collisions (2 injuries, 24 property damage)
The RCMP anticipates that the total number of collisions will continue to rise as reports from various detachments continue to come in.
Drivers in Airdrie are being advised to prepare for worsening road conditions on Friday, as freezing temperatures and expected snowfall are set to grip the region.
Periods of snow are expected to begin this afternoon, with up to two centimetres of accumulation possible by tonight. Winds gusting to 60 km/h this morning are expected to ease, but blowing snow could linger.
Temperatures will remain cold, with a high of -9°C and wind chill values near -21°C in the morning and -12°C in the afternoon. Overnight, temperatures are forecast to drop to -26°C, with wind chills plunging to -33°C. Saturday is expected to bring clear skies, but wind chill values could fall to -38°C in the morning before moderating to -21°C in the afternoon.
Motorists must drive responsibly and safely, especially as weather conditions impact the province. Drivers are also urged to ensure their vehicles are equipped with emergency supplies, as extreme cold poses a significant risk of frostbite for anyone stranded or exposed to the elements.
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