RCMP in Southern Alberta says, despite several warnings from them and Alberta 511 reports, drivers ventured out on southern Alberta highways with many of them facing the consequences.

A media release says that Alberta RCMP began issuing warnings about extremely poor driving conditions starting at 11:00 am on Tuesday in anticipation of severe snowstorms.  Motorists were advised to avoid travel on Hiway 1 west of Calgary.

At 1:30 pm, an update was provided with continued warnings of poor driving conditions and reduced visibility.  Then, at 2:45 pm, Alberta RCMP released a warning for motorists in the Airdrie area that travel should be avoided.

At 11:30 pm last night, an advisory was issued that travel was not recommended on all southern Alberta highways.

In coordination with Alberta Transportation, Highway 1 was closed last night near Lac Des Arc.  No fatalities were reported as a result of the weather-related delays and no injuries to any stranded motorists were reported.

Highway crews, tow trucks, and the RCMP worked through the night to clear the roads and assist motorists but several motorists remained stranded in their vehicles.

Highway 2 was closed between Bowden and Crossfield as RCMP responded to a 25 to 30 vehicle collision that resulted in one death at around 7:00 pm last evening.  

Between 10:30 am Tuesday and 10:30 am today, RCMP responded to approximately 83 collisions in southern Alberta.  Airdrie RCMP responded to a fatal incident on Highway 567 between Range Road 284 and 285 at around 1:40 pm yesterday.

Weather conditions continued to be a problem this morning and at 8:45 am another RCMP media release was issued once again warning motorists that travel is not recommended on Highway 1A west of Cochrane.

According to the RCMP, current conditions are that Highway 1 between 1X and Canmore has now reopened in both directions.  Highway 1A east of Canmore is also now open in both directions and Highway 2 is open in both directions as well.  

The Alberta RCMP remind motorists to check weather conditions and traffic conditions on Alberta 511 before travelling.  While the efforts of patrolling members remained ongoing throughout the afternoon and evening, the RCMP say it was impossible to assist every motorist who became stranded.

To ensure you're ready for extreme weather this winter, visit GetPrepared.ca.

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