Blizzard forces closure of Trans-Canada east of Calgary

Heavy snowfall in central and southern Alberta is creating hazardous conditions on highways and authorities have closed the Trans-Canada Highway east of Calgary to Highway 36 near Brooks.

Alberta Transportation has closed Highway 1 from Stoney Trail in Calgary to Highway 36 near Brooks due to the weather and road conditions.

Motorists are asked to find shelter in a safe location or in their vehicle and to be prepared to spend the night.

Police say snow removal equipment is off the road in the area as conditions are not safe for the operators.

A temporary Emergency Shelter has been opened at the Strathmore Civic Centre at 120 Brent Blvd., Strathmore.

To get there from Highway 1 go north on Highway 817 and turn right onto Brent Blvd.

The QEII Highway north of the city through to Wetaskiwin is in extremely poor condition and blowing snow is reducing visibility for motorists.

A multi-vehicle collision between Didsbury and Carstairs blocked the southbound lanes of the QEII for hours and visibility is still poor.

The Trans-Canada Highway west of Calgary is in fair condition and roads are partly covered in snow.

Drifting snow is reducing visibility on Highway 2 south as well and the road is listed in fair condition with patches of bare and ice covered areas.

Part of Highway 3 in Crowsnest Pass is closed from Highway 40 to Highway 43 in Sparwood, B.C. because of blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Lethbridge RCMP are also advising against travel in the city and surrounding areas and say roads are in poor driving condition.

RCMP in Cardston are also warning the public to avoid unnecessary travel and say high winds and blowing snow are creating hazardous conditions on area roads and highways.

For the latest on road conditions in Alberta, visit the AMA Road Reports website. For conditions in B.C. see the British Columbia Highway News and Drive B.C. websites.