Skip to content

Updated: Wind gusts toppling semi-trailers on Hwy 2 causing long lines

RCMP warning drivers that multiple trucks tipped over between Edmonton and Calgary
8955128_web1_vento-leva-2

Gusting winds were blowing over semi-trailers on Hwy 2 on Tuesday evening causing traffic to back up.

RCMP were reporting serveral rollovers between Calgary and Edmonton and warned of long delays.

A semi toppled over just south of the Penhold overpass and two others were reported down between Red Deer and Blackfalds about 7 p.m.

Winds gusting up to 100 km/h are expected to hit Central Alberta this evening.

Environment Canada has issued wind warnings for much of Alberta from Cold Lake to as far south as Cypress Hills Provincial Park.

From Red Deer to Edmonton northwesterly winds gusting to 90 km/h to 100 km/h are expected.

“The strong gusty winds will continue eastward towards Lloydminister,” Environment Canada posted on its website at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. “Scattered thunderstorms will accompany the arrival of the strong winds.”

As a result of the warning, a fire advisory has been issued Tuesday for the Rocky Forest Area.

The fire advisory for the Rocky Forest Area section follows forecasts for winds in the 50-60 km/h range throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

Under the advisory, any burning other than a campfire is prohibited.

The wind is expected to die down this evening in Central Alberta and overnight for communities closer to the Saskatchewan border.

A wind warning has also been issued for Southern Alberta where southwesterly winds gusting up to 130 km/h were recorded.

“The strong gusty winds along the southwestern Alberta Foothills will diminish overnight only to resume Wednesday afternoon with gusts over 100 km/h,” says Environment Canada.

“Damage to buildings, such as roof shingles and windows may occur.”



Send your news tips

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter

8955128_web1_toppled-tree
This huge tree in Deer Park was a casualty of gusting winds on Tuesday afternoon. Environment Canada warned of gusts up to 100 km/h in Central Alberta. Contributed photo from Sue Schollie
8955128_web1_Twitter-photo-Hwy-2
Photo from Twitter
8955128_web1_Twitter-photo-Hwy-2-2
Photo from Twitter