RCMP say weather poses serious dangers for Alberta travellers ahead of Christmas weekend
Those in areas around Banff National Park asked to drive with caution
RCMP are cautioning Alberta drivers ahead of Christmas weekend.
Lake Louise RCMP said they have received numerous complaints related to unsafe driving in winter conditions. They're asking drivers to use patience this holiday season, especially around semis, and to allow for adequate passing distance.
"Snow is in the forecast through the Christmas weekend, as well as bitterly cold temperatures. The severe weather can be both frightening and pose serious dangers for travellers," RCMP said in an emailed statement.
Headed to <a href="https://twitter.com/BanffNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BanffNP</a> for the weekend? Be prepared for challenging winter road conditions and reduced visibility. Reports of multiple vehicles in the ditch near Dead Man's Flats. Slow down, and leave extra room. (2:52pm) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ABRoads?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ABRoads</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ABStorm?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ABStorm</a> <a href="https://t.co/n6r2knPBPk">pic.twitter.com/n6r2knPBPk</a>
—@511AlbertaIn a post to Twitter around 3 p.m. Thursday, 511 Alberta cautioned those heading to Banff National Park for the weekend, and warned of challenging winter road conditions and reduced visibility. The group said there were reports of multiple vehicles in the ditch near Dead Man's Flats east of Canmore.
In a post on social media, Calgary Transportation said blowing snow has brought out city plows Thursday afternoon, with crews working through the holidays.
"Low temps can cause ice. Plan ahead. Stay safe," the post read.
What would the holidays be without a little snow? It’s blowing snow in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yyc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yyc</a> and crews are working 24/7 through the holidays. Right now we’re focused on main roads, plowing and putting down abrasives to help with traction. Low temps can cause ice. Plan ahead. Stay safe. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yycsnow?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yycsnow</a>
—@yyctransportCrews are focusing on plowing main roads in Calgary and putting down abrasives to help with traction.
Environment Canada is forecasting heavy snow in Calgary at times throughout Thursday evening, possible flurries Friday and temperatures below –20 C throughout the weekend.