Update:
SASKATCHEWAN — Travel not recommended advisories remain in effect on many Saskatchewan highways in the evening of April 24, thanks to a powerful snowstorm sweeping through much of the province.
According to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure's Highway Hotline, motorists are asked to avoid all highways around Prince Albert, Lloydminster, the Battlefords and Swift Current, among other areas, along with some highways around Saskatoon, Melfort and other communities.
Motorists are urged to stay off of Highway 1 from the Alberta border to Rush Lake. Stretches of Highways 11 and 16 also have do-not-travel advisories.
According to the Highway Hotline, the eastbound lanes of Highway 1 east of Maple Creek are closed due to a jackknifed semi.
The RCMP has issued a travel advisory due to the latest April snowstorm to blast Saskatchewan.
In a news release, the RCMP advised the public that winter weather is impacting road conditions across Saskatchewan. The worst of the conditions are seen in central and northern parts of the province.
"If you must travel in these areas, please slow down and follow the instructions of emergency personnel on scene," the RCMP said.
The police added ice, snow-covered lanes, road closures, detours, and drifting and blowing snow are impacting road conditions and/or visibility throughout several other parts of Saskatchewan.
Before travelling, the RCMP people to check the weather and road conditions along the route. If poor weather or road conditions exist or are forecasted, consider delaying travel if possible.
If travel is necessary, the RCMP asks people to stay on roads that have recently received road maintenance. Travellers can access information on road conditions and track which roads have been plowed, salted and/or sanded within the last two hours at the Highway Hotline.
The RCMP reminds the public to avoid calling 911 or local RCMP detachments for updates on road conditions. Calling 911 must be reserved for emergencies and crimes in progress, and using it in non-emergent situations could prevent someone with a life-threatening emergency from getting help.
According to the Highway Hotline, travel is not recommended on numerous highways in the province.
Highways in the Regina area are listed as covered or partially covered.
Snowfall, winter storm and blowing snow warnings remain in effect in northern Saskatchewan. Other advisories, including rain, freezing rain and wind warnings, along with a special weather statement, have been lifted.
SaskToday will have updates as they become available.
