Snow causes hundreds of collisions in and around Edmonton
Posted October 23, 2023 4:28 pm.
Last Updated October 23, 2023 6:54 pm.
It was a slow start to the day for many in Edmonton as drivers woke up to the first snowfall of the season.
“I had to do a little shoveling this morning now I have to go home and shovel a little more,” explained Walter Wong.
“It’s very slick. Everything is very slow today. I’ve seen at least three or four accidents just on the way here,” added Gerald Cajindos.
Collisions along the QE II, Whitemud, and 99 Street caused delays, making it a messy commute.
As of late Monday afternoon, there were close to 200 collisions reported to collision centres within the city, with close to 30 people injured, and close to a dozen drivers failing to remain on scene.
Special weather statements remained in effect Monday, with Environment Canada saying there could be between two to five centimeters by Monday night. However, they say how much snow will stick around will vary because the ground is still relatively warm.
City staff says they had crews working throughout the weekend preparing for the start of the snowy season. Overnight 60 to 70 trucks were on the roads laying down a mixture of salt and sand to help with traction.
“There were trucks out working on the Whitemud because of the drastically falling temps and quick onset of the heavier snow that is why you saw a bit of a delay of the salt starting to activate on the Whitemud,” said Valerie Dacyk General Supervisor of infrastructure field operations with the City of Edmonton.
For those taking transit, it was also a rough start to the day. University students like Yashesh Patel and his friends were stranded in the cold waiting for buses they said didn’t come.
“We missed our two buses because of snow because it’s getting delayed. Getting early … we don’t know when the bus is coming. So we’re just standing in the snow freezing here,” said Patel.
While for others waiting with him, the beauty of winter is in the eye of the beholder.
“It’s my first winter in Canada. When I look at the surroundings it’s like ‘wow’. I just want to stand here and look at the snow. I don’t care if I miss the bus, I get the view,” said Mitra Patel.
The snow has not just been an issue for Edmonton. Surrounding areas like Leduc have seen many road closures in and around the city due to poor road conditions and the number of collisions that are being dealt with.
Mounties have responded to numerous collisions along the QEII, but have not stated how many.
RCMP is advising those who are planning to take to the streets to drive with extra caution. It is also recommended to avoid road travel due to icy roads and blowing snow.
