In excess of 15 cm of snow fell overnight Tuesday and continues to blow Wednesday morning, creating hard packed drifts and reduced visibility in locales. Motorists will need to slow down to navigate those drifts until highway crews can head out. Civic crews are making headway in communities, but it could be slow going on side streets.
Some quick reminders about winter travel from the RCMP.
If you become stranded on the highway, do not leave your vehicle – other motorists may not be able to see you in adverse conditions. Make sure your tailpipe remains clear of ice and snow, or carbon monoxide could potentially seep into your vehicle.
Before you travel in winter weather, ensure your vehicle has lots of fuel, you have extra warm clothes, snacks, water and a snow shovel on hand. Traction mats, a tow rope or chain and a booster cable are also great to keep in your vehicle, as well as a spare phone charger.
For the most up-to-date highway conditions, check out the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline map at: http://hotline.gov.sk.ca/map.html
From Tuesday night:
The recent warm up mixed with some snow has caused some road issues following Christmas day. However, the storm is just beginning. We are expecting to see amounts up to 15cm of snow accumulated overnight tonight.
The snowfall will continue into Wednesday but the majority of snow will appear overnight tonight.
This, mixed with the wind, will be cause for concern for anyone travelling.
Roads in the area are currently snow covered and drifts are forming. The wind is making visibility unpredictable and causing it to be dangerous to travel.
Please check the Highway Hotline and forecast before planning any driving over the next 24hrs.