Blizzard Conditions Trigger Tow Ban on Alberta's Highway 2 Between Edmonton and Red Deer
Dangerously poor visibility and severe winter weather conditions have prompted authorities to implement a tow ban on Highway 2 between Edmonton and Red Deer. The decision comes as a significant winter storm system sweeps across southern Alberta, creating hazardous driving conditions and reducing visibility to near-zero in some areas.
Weather Warnings Issued Across Southern Alberta
Environment Canada has issued multiple weather warnings for most of southern Alberta as winter makes a forceful return to the region. The weather agency warns of heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds that are creating treacherous conditions on major roadways. Highway 2, a critical transportation corridor connecting Alberta's two largest metropolitan areas, has been particularly affected by the deteriorating conditions.
The tow ban means that commercial towing operations are prohibited from operating along this stretch of highway until conditions improve sufficiently. This measure is designed to prevent additional vehicles from becoming stranded on the roadway and to allow snow removal crews to work more effectively. Emergency services and law enforcement vehicles remain operational, but they are urging motorists to avoid all non-essential travel.
Storm System Creates 'High Impact' Conditions
The winter storm affecting Alberta is part of a larger weather system that meteorologists describe as having 'high impact' potential. Similar conditions are expected to arrive in the Greater Toronto Area overnight, bringing freezing rain and snow to Canada's most populous metropolitan region. In Alberta, the storm has already caused numerous incidents, including a head-on crash in Burnaby that resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries.
Highway cameras captured images of vehicles struggling through the conditions north of Red Deer on February 17, 2026, showing cars moving cautiously through blowing snow. The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) road reports indicate that visibility continues to deteriorate as the storm intensifies throughout the afternoon and evening hours.
Safety Recommendations for Motorists
Transportation officials are advising motorists who must travel to exercise extreme caution and prepare for winter driving conditions. Recommended precautions include:
- Checking road conditions before departing through official sources like AMA Road Reports
- Ensuring vehicles have proper winter tires with adequate tread depth
- Carrying emergency supplies including blankets, food, water, and a fully charged phone
- Reducing speed significantly and increasing following distance between vehicles
- Avoiding sudden maneuvers that could cause loss of vehicle control
The tow ban will remain in effect until authorities determine that conditions have improved sufficiently to allow safe towing operations. Motorists are encouraged to monitor official announcements from Alberta Transportation and Environment Canada for updates on when the restriction might be lifted.
This weather event serves as a reminder of the challenging winter conditions that can develop rapidly in Alberta, particularly during February when Arctic air masses frequently interact with moisture from Pacific systems. The combination creates the perfect conditions for significant snowfall and reduced visibility that can make travel hazardous even on major highways.
