FORT MCMURRAY — The Fort Chipewyan Winter Road is set to close for the season April 7 as warmer spring temperatures continue to affect travel conditions.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo says weight limits will be reduced in stages beginning April 3, with the road dropping from heavy vehicle access to light vehicles only before shifting to overnight travel restrictions.
Starting April 4, the winter road will be open only to vehicles weighing up to 5,000 kilograms between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m., with daytime travel prohibited through April 6. Officials say drivers using the road during restricted hours could face fines.
The road will close completely at 10 a.m. on April 7. This season, it remained open for 108 consecutive days, exceeding the 10-year average by more than a week.
Similar restrictions are being applied to the La Loche Winter Trail, which will also move to nighttime-only travel for light vehicles before closing April 7.
Officials say the measures are intended to preserve the road surface during thawing conditions and maintain safe travel for as long as possible. Drivers are being advised to expect rough conditions, follow all posted signage and plan for longer travel times.
Travel on closed winter roads is prohibited, with barricades and signage in place and no alternate routes available.
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