Poor Driving Conditions on Highway 63 Amid Snow, Sleet, and Freezing Rain
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. – Poor driving conditions are being reported along Highway 63 as snow, sleet, and freezing rain create hazardous travel south of Fort McMurray.
According to 511 Alberta, the highway is partly covered in ice and snow from the junction of Highway 881 through to Mariana Lakes. South of Mariana Lakes to Township Road 781, conditions remain treacherous, with reports of slippery surfaces and reduced visibility.
RCMP Cst. Patrick Lambert says RCMP are not advising travel on Highway 63 unless it is absolutely necessary. Rapidly changing conditions combined with ice and snow are making travel dangerous. Cst. Lambert suggests motorists consider other routes if available, or postpone travel until weather improves.
Traffic is also backed up due to a collision approximately 15 minutes south of Mariana Lakes, where crews are working to clear the scene. There are no immediate reports on injuries or the extent of the damage.
Further south, conditions improve beyond Township Road 781, with roads reported as bare and dry. In Edmonton, the weather is sunny with a temperature of 7°C, allowing for safer travel as above-freezing conditions prevent ice buildup.
Motorists traveling between Fort McMurray and Edmonton are advised to use caution and check 511 Alberta for the latest updates.