Southern Alberta highways closed after snowstorm hits the region

Several highways in southern Alberta were closed Monday after high winds and icy snow blew through the area.

By Tuesday morning, some of the closures had been lifted while others were still in place.

QEII Highway

The QEII highway was also hit hard by Monday’s blustery storm.

As of Tuesday at 12 p.m., the road was listed as partly-covered in snow and ice on the Alberta 511 website.

A crash south of Bowden was causing major delays, according to Alberta 511.

Highway 9

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RCMP said travel is not recommended due to winter road conditions on Highway 9 from Beiseker to Drumheller, citing multiple collisions. Highway 9 from Highway 56 Morrin corner to Hanna had reopened as of Tuesday morning, but travel was not recommended due to tow companies removing abandoned cars.

Highway 12

As of 12 p.m. on Tuesday, the Alberta 511 website indicated Highway 12 was closed from Highway 872 to Highway 884 due to poor visibility.

Highway 36

As of 12 p.m. on Tuesday, the Alberta 511 website indicated Highway 36 was closed between Highway 9 and the Wardlow Turnoff due to strong wind and poor visibility.

Winter driving tips from RCMP:

• Ensure the exhaust of the vehicle is not blocked by snow or other debris and check periodically if assistance isn’t forthcoming
• Once the exhaust is cleared, remaining in the vehicle is safer than standing near it (i.e. in the event another vehicle leaves the roadway)
• Contact any family/friends to advise of your condition so they don’t worry if you’re delayed in reaching your destination

For up-to-date road reports visit www.511.alberta.ca

Watch below: Southern Alberta is recovering from its first blast of wintry weather in the early fall. Elaine Van Rootselaar reports on how drivers were affected.

1:46 October storm shuts down rural bus routes, closes roads across southern Alberta

– With files from Erika Tucker