Warm Weather Prompts Load Limit Reductions on Fort Chipewyan Winter Road
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) will reduce the load limit on the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road to 5,000 kilograms, effective 8 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14. The change comes as warm weather raises concerns about the road’s integrity, prompting plans to prevent damage and maintain safety.
The Municipality warns that vehicles exceeding the weight limit risk damaging critical sections of the road, including ice ramps and frozen crossings, which could delay efforts to raise load limits when cooler temperatures return. Drivers not adhering to the restrictions may face fines, and their actions could further jeopardize the road’s integrity.
Drivers are reminded to exercise caution, particularly at river crossings, where only one vehicle is permitted on the ice at a time. Motorists should stay alert for crews working along the route and follow all posted detour signs.
The La Loche Winter Trail remains open, but it is also limited to vehicles weighing less than 5,000 kilograms.
Speeding on the winter roads is discouraged, as it poses a significant risk to road stability. Fast-moving vehicles can create waves under the ice, which may lead to sudden ice breaks or structural damage when the wave encounters obstacles like shorelines or sandbars.
The Municipality will provide updates as conditions change. Drivers can check the status of winter roads through several channels, including the Winter Road Hotline at 866-743-6111, the RMWB website, and the Municipality’s social media accounts.