Watch for winter road restrictions due to warm temperatures

Daytime restrictions, temporary closures set for Fort Chipewyan Winter Road, La Loche Winter Trail this week

Unusually warm weather will see weight restrictions and temporary road closures affecting winter roads in the region this week. These restrictions are needed to limit damage to the roads.

Follow all signage, drive to conditions and expect rougher roads for at least the next few days during fluctuating temperatures.

Fort Chipewyan Winter Road restrictions

Tuesday Jan. 13

• Daytime weight restriction - 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. - to light vehicles less than 5,000 kg in weight.
• The limit will revert back to 15,000 kg after 10 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 14

• ROAD CLOSED - 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• The limit will revert back to 15,000 kg after 10 p.m.

Thursday, Jan 15

• Daytime weight restriction - 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. to light vehicles less than 5,000 kg in weight.

After Thursday, colder temperatures are expected and the road should be fully reopened to the previous 15,000 kg load limit.

La Loche Winter Trail Restrictions

Tuesday Jan. 13

• Updated weight restriction - 10 a.m. until further notice - restricted to light vehicles less than 5,000 kg in weight

Wednesday, Jan. 14

• 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. – ROAD CLOSED

Thursday, Jan. 15

• The 5,000 kg weight restriction remains in effect until further notice.

Weight limits will be increased as soon as it is safe to do so. All changes to the weight limit will be formally announced. Vehicles on the winter road that are heavier than the posted weight limits will be subject to serious fines and penalties. 

Speeding on the winter road is dangerous and destructive

Don’t speed on the winter road. In most sections, the speed limit is 50 km/hr but drops to 15 km/hr at river crossings. It is extremely dangerous, especially through the delta section, to speed. Fast moving vehicles can build a wave under the ice, breaking ice and damaging the road.

Important reminders

·         Stay on the right-hand side of the road, especially on hills.

• All heavy vehicles (fuel trucks, semi-trailers, etc.), require a permit to use the winter road. Submit a permit application as soon as possible to prevent any delays.
• Find information on permits and other details in the Heavy Vehicle Information Package.
• Review the Winter Road Safety Tips before travelling.  

Winter road updates, safety tips and other resources are available at rmwb.ca/winterroads. Road users can also get updates by calling the Winter Road Hotline at 1-866-743-6111, or by signing up for email updates at rmwb.ca/subscribe.