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FORT McMURRAY — Wednesday’s storm was one of the worst in recent memory, according to a local towing operator, after heavy snow, high winds and extreme cold swept across northeastern Alberta.
Wood Buffalo RCMP issued a travel advisory early in the day, warning driving conditions throughout Fort McMurray and on area highways were in poor condition due to high winds, blowing snow and icy roads.
Police said they had been receiving calls for stranded motorists and abandoned vehicles in the roadway and advised travel in the area was not recommended.
Drivers were encouraged to slow down and drive to conditions, increase following distance and ensure vehicles were winter ready, including proper tires, functioning lights and a full windshield washer reservoir. Officers also urged motorists to carry an emergency kit and to remain inside their vehicle with hazard lights on if caught in a whiteout.
Environment Canada issued snowfall and extreme cold advisories for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, forecasting 10 to 20 centimetres of snow and wind chills near or below minus 40. Forecasters said travel would likely be challenging as conditions changed rapidly.
“This is probably the worst storm I’ve seen in a long time. Roads are not fit, lots of snow. Blowing snow is the problem with winds, and everyone blaming the plows. They just cannot keep up and cannot clear it fast enough,” said Keith Reid, owner of Robby’s Towing.
Reid said the company shifted to emergency calls only and described it as the busiest day so far. He added city crews are working their best to keep roads clear, but the intensity of the weather is almost too much to manage.
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