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| A helicopter delivers supplies along the side of a highway in northern Alberta. |
By SCN News Desk
A powerful spring storm has brought travel to a standstill in Alberta, leaving hundreds of motorists stranded on major highways amid freezing temperatures and dangerous conditions.
Authorities reported that nearly 300 vehicles were stuck along a key northern route near Fort McMurray, as heavy snowfall and strong winds reduced visibility and blocked movement for hours.
Emergency crews, including police, tow trucks, and snowplows, have been working continuously to clear roads and assist those trapped. Officials have urged drivers to remain with their vehicles while rescue operations continue.
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| Heavy snow stranded some Alberta highway motorists for more than 15 hours, with some creating makeshift blankets out of items in their suitcases to keep warm while low on gas. Diana Noble, a Fort McMurray, Alta., resident recounts her experience stuck on Highway 63. |
Weather conditions worsened rapidly, with snowfall reaching significant levels across the region. In some areas, accumulation exceeded 60 centimeters, creating hazardous driving conditions and cutting off access on several stretches of highway.
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| A bus in a ditch near Vilna, Alta |
Stranded drivers described long hours in freezing vehicles, with some attempting to conserve fuel while staying warm. Others were forced to abandon their cars and seek help on foot.
Local residents also stepped in to assist those affected, highlighting the severity of the situation as communities responded to the emergency.
Officials warn that conditions remain dangerous, with ongoing efforts focused on restoring access and ensuring the safety of motorists.