Calgary and area drivers warned about slippery roads, importance of being prepared

If you’ve been dreaming of a white Christmas, your dreams have come true.

But it could turn into a nightmare on city streets and area highways.

The City of Calgary said Friday morning it’s activating its snow clock and will focus on plowing and sanding the busiest routes after a fresh blanket of snow covered the city.

Those roads include Crowchild Trail, Glenmore Trail and Memorial Drive.

A midday dusting of the white stuff had the city reset its snow clock at 3 p.m. on Friday.

With extremely low temperatures also expected for the rest of the day, Calgarians are being reminded to be prepared as they head out on the roads, to leave plenty of time for trips, and to bundle up before they head out.

Drivers are advised to check the city’s traffic cameras and road conditions map. Transit users should visit calgarytransit.com for the most up-to-date route information. People walking and wheeling can refer to the city’s pathways and bikeways map to see which routes are snow cleared.

Highways around Calgary, mainly to the west, are listed as partially covered in snow.

In southern Alberta, Raymond RCMP are advising of poor driving conditions southwest of Lethbridge.

Specifically, they are advising drivers to avoid the following highways:

• Highway 846
• Highway 845
• Highway 52
• Highway 5
• Highway 4

RCMP are also not recommending travel between Medicine Hat, Alta., and the Saskatchewan border because of poor visibility, strong winds and blowing snow.

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Ryan Lemont, the driver education manager with AMA, says there are easy things you can do to prepare for a road trip.

“Pack an emergency kit,” says Lemont. “That can be filled with things like a blanket, maybe some booster cables, even bring some food along like a protein bar, some water would be good. Even things like a shovel, additional clothing, another set of boots may be handy if you’re not wearing your big heavy winter boots.”

He also adds try to relax and avoid the pressure to rush to your destination.

“I would say just be present. Try to focus on the drive itself and not worry too much about the destination.

“You will get there but just be in the moment when it comes to driving. That’s so important with some of those changing conditions out there. You need to be alert and adjust to those changing conditions.”

For the latest highway conditions, head to 511 Alberta.

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