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UPDATE: City to close Fort Chipewyan Winter Road Wednesday

PHOTO. supplied. Always be prepared for emergencies as there are no regular services like road patrol, gas stations or cell phone coverage along the winter road.

UPDATE: Monday April 7th

The city says it’s now planning to shut down the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road Wednesday at noon.

The load is still staying put at 5,000 kilos.

But the road could close sooner, and without warning, if its conditions deteriorate quickly.

Driving at night or early in the morning is recommended because of the weather.

BACKGROUND: Friday April 4th

The Fort Chipewyan Winter Road could be closing at noon today.

The city says if the road can still be driven on today, it may be kept open on a day-to-day basis.

On Sunday, the RMWB limited loads to 5,000 kilograms.

It recommends traveling at night or early mornings because the delta area is deteriorating.

Travelers are reminded of the following:

” Obey all posted speed limits on the road and ice crossings
” Only one vehicle is allowed on ice bridges at a time
” Watch for heavy trucks on the road
” Slow down when workers are present
” Watch for rough patches in the delta area
” Watch for sharp and narrow corners in the sand hill area
” There is no cell coverage, gas stations or road patrol – be prepared for emergencies
” If your vehicle breaks down along the road, consider the safety of your fellow motorists and have it removed promptly.

Check the following sources for the latest information:

” News room – http://www.woodbuffalo.ab.ca/news-room.htm
” Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WoodBuffaloRuralCommunityConnection and
” Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/rmwoodbuffalo
” Twitter – @RMWoodBuffalo
” Construction Hotline – 780.793.1054 or constructionhelpdesk@woodbuffalo.ab.ca
” Winter Road Hotline (recorded message) – 1.866.743.6111
” For information on the Fort Smith Winter Road, please call Parks Canada at 867.872.7962.