Alberta winter storm makes for dangerous driving conditions
Posted February 17, 2026 1:20 pm.
Last Updated February 17, 2026 3:49 pm.
As winter returns to Alberta, drivers are being urged to be cautious on the road.
The Alberta RCMP issued a tow ban Tuesday for the QE II from Edmonton to just north of Red Deer.
Authorities say blowing and drifting snow is causing reduced visibility and dangerous driving conditions that make tow operations too dangerous.
Police say officers are responding to several minor collisions in the area.
“Please avoid travel until conditions improve,” Mounties urged.
The blast of winter hit many parts of Alberta, with as much as 25 centimetres of snow forecasted for much of the province.
High levels of snow mixed with ice and multiple stalled vehicles has made a portion of Highway 45 “impassible,” Two Hills RCMP say.
Drivers are being asked to avoid the Highway 45 between Myrnam and Highway 41.
“Seek alternate routes of travel,” police say.
Mounties in Boyle, northeast of Edmonton, also urged people not to travel altogether.
“Every highway is reporting poor conditions and increased collision risks,” RCMP said. “Even slow-moving vehicles are reporting whiteout conditions and no visibility.
“Until conditions get better, Boyle RCMP asks the public to avoid taking the roads.”
