Multiple collisions occurred on a major Alberta highway just south of Edmonton on Friday, January 2, 2026, significantly slowing traffic during the afternoon.
Incident Details and Location
The series of collisions took place on Highway 2 (Queen Elizabeth II Highway) just south of Leduc, Alberta. The incidents were reported around midday, with traffic cameras from 511 Alberta showing congested conditions looking north from the area at noon.
While the exact number of vehicles involved was not immediately specified in initial reports, the description of "several collisions" indicates a multi-vehicle incident. The collisions caused a substantial slowdown for motorists traveling on this crucial north-south corridor connecting Edmonton to destinations like Calgary and the United States border.
Context and Travel Advisory
The collisions add to a list of traffic incidents reported across Canada on the first weekend of 2026, which has seen active winter weather in many regions. While specific weather conditions for the Leduc area at the time of the crashes were not detailed in the brief report, winter driving conditions are common in Alberta during early January.
Authorities typically advise drivers to check 511 Alberta for real-time road conditions, construction updates, and incident reports before traveling. The service provides essential information for navigating Alberta's highways, especially during winter months when road surfaces can be unpredictable.
Broader National Picture
The incident near Edmonton was part of a national trend of transportation disruptions on January 2. Other reports included a multi-vehicle crash in Surrey, B.C., that critically injured two people, and an impaired novice driver charged in northern Ontario after being caught speeding.
Furthermore, a nationwide recall of 20,800 vehicles over safety-related issues was announced, and more winter weather was expected across Canada throughout the weekend, prompting warnings for drivers to exercise caution.
For travelers in the Edmonton region, the collisions near Leduc served as a stark reminder of the need for heightened awareness on the roads following the holiday period, particularly as many return from seasonal travels.
