REGINA — Saskatchewan RCMP say Friday’s winter storm is changing road and weather conditions so quickly that drivers need to check updates repeatedly throughout the day and just before they plan to leave.
During a media briefing Friday morning, Mandy Meier, RCMP media spokesperson, said conditions are shifting “all day today,” with closures and travel advisories being updated in real time as wind gusts up to 100 km/h and blowing now reduces visibility across southern Saskatchewan.
“Highway 46 is probably the one we’re looking at most closely right now,” said Meier, adding that there is a multi-vehicle pile-up southwest of Balgonie. “There were a number of vehicles piled up in that area. I don’t have information on injuries right now.”
She said larger vehicles involved in collisions may require specialized equipment, and depending on the severity, collision reconstruction investigators could be called in.
RCMP say that between 6 p.m. Thursday and 10:30 a.m. Friday, they received 44 collision or rollover reports and 28 traffic hazards.
Meier said the Highway Hotline is being updated constantly as RCMP officers and OCC operators speak throughout the day with Ministry of Highways staff responding to deteriorating conditions.
She also urged the public to be cautious about relying on social media posts for road information.
“If it’s social media, are you getting it from a source where it's a trusted communication channel? What’s the timestamp on that picture? When was it shared? Do you trust the person who shared it?”
Environment Canada has issued wind and blowing-snow alerts for Regina and much of southern Saskatchewan, warning that there may be gusts up to 100 km/h. RCMP say those winds, combined with drifting snow, ice-covered lanes and sudden whiteout conditions, are contributing to collisions and vehicles sliding into ditches.
Dan Palmer with the Ministry of Highways said the rapid changes were evident during the briefing itself.
“In the space of this call already, Highway 1 West has gone from closed to travel not recommended. This is why we keep telling folks, check the hotline before you head out.”
RCMP continue to respond to multiple incidents, including a collision on Highway 10 near Edgeley and numerous reports of vehicles in the ditch across the region.
Meier reminded drivers to prepare properly if travel is unavoidable, including keep vehicles fuelled, ensure phones are charged, pack water and snacks, and drive to weather conditions rather than the posted speed limit. If stranded, she said motorists should stay inside their vehicle, keep the exhaust pipe clear, and wait for help.
“We want everyone to get home safely. Make an informed decision.”
