Highway Conditions Deteriorate Across Saskatchewan as Blowing Snow Causes Closures and Travel Warnings

Highway conditions across Saskatchewan have deteriorated rapidly following a day of blowing snow, with authorities warning that more snowfall is expected and travel conditions may continue to worsen.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) issued an advisory Friday afternoon, highlighting central and northern regions as the most severely affected areas.

Road Closures and Incidents

Police reported that officers from Warman are responding to multiple weather-related incidents along Highway 16 near Borden. The highway has been closed in the area due to poor visibility, icy surfaces, and unsafe driving conditions.

Meanwhile, Rosetown RCMP are dealing with a jackknifed semi-truck blocking the westbound lane of Highway 7 near Fiske.

Authorities are urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow instructions from emergency crews if travel is unavoidable.

Widespread Travel Warnings

Environment and Climate Change Canada has placed much of western Saskatchewan under a blowing snow advisory. Poor visibility, drifting snow, and rapid accumulation are making highways hazardous.

By late Friday afternoon, the provincial Highway Hotline indicated that travel was not recommended on numerous routes west of Saskatoon and Prince Albert, including areas stretching from Rosetown to North Battleford and further north toward Meadow Lake and Beauval.

Officials warned that sudden drops in visibility and strong wind gusts could create dangerous driving conditions, particularly for larger vehicles.

Snowfall and Northern Impact

Snowfall totals vary across the province. Areas such as Prince Albert, North Battleford, and Meadow Lake are expected to receive between 2 and 4 centimetres overnight, while La Ronge could see similar amounts followed by additional accumulation on Saturday.

In northern regions, the storm is significantly more intense. Environment Canada forecasts total snowfall between 40 and 70 centimetres in some areas. Communities near Points North Landing and Black Lake have reported heavy snow buildup, with vehicles navigating narrow paths cleared by snowplows.

Public Safety Advisory

RCMP are reminding the public not to call 911 or local detachments for road condition updates, emphasizing that emergency lines must remain available for urgent situations.

Officials continue to advise residents to delay travel where possible and stay updated through official channels as the storm system moves through the province.

The severe weather highlights the ongoing challenges of spring storms in Saskatchewan, where rapidly changing conditions can significantly impact transportation and safety.

Courtesy: panow