1st snowfall of season means delays, collisions on Edmonton-area roads – Edmonton

The first snowfall of the season for much of central and southern Alberta early Monday morning had some roads and highways in poor condition.

The morning commute in Edmonton was slow and slippery.

Further south, Innisfail RCMP were warning of “extremely poor” road conditions on the QE II Highway, particularly between Carstairs and Olds, where they reported “numerous — potentially 12” — collisions. Drivers were asked to avoid the area entirely.

Special weather statements and snowfall warnings were issued for central and southern Alberta by Environment Canada.

In the Edmonton area, a total of two to five centimetres of snow is expected by Monday evening.

“The first snowfall of the season is underway across central Alberta,” the weather agency said.

“Snowfall accumulations will vary as some of the snow will melt on contact with the relatively warm ground… Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.”

1:52
Tow trucks given priority at Edmonton’s Collision Reporting Centres

In Edmonton, collision reporting centres — a partnership between Edmonton police and Accident Support Services International (ASSI) — are open between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Drivers can check the projected wait times at the collision centres online.

The north site is located at 15750 116 Avenue NW and the south site is at 5805 87A Street NW.

2:31
Edmonton collision reporting centres put to the test amid 1st snowfall of the season

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