Dangerous winter conditions have transformed Saskatoon streets into hazardous pathways, leading to a dramatic surge in vehicle collisions across the city. The icy road surfaces have created challenging driving conditions that have caught many motorists unprepared.
Winter Weather Creates Hazardous Driving Conditions
November 28, 2025 marked a particularly difficult day for Saskatoon commuters as freezing temperatures combined with precipitation created dangerously slick road surfaces throughout the downtown core. The situation became so severe that emergency services reported responding to numerous accident calls throughout the day.
Local authorities have confirmed that collision rates have increased by approximately 50% compared to typical daily averages. The icy patches have been particularly problematic during morning and evening rush hours when traffic volume peaks.
Emergency Services Stretched Thin
Police and emergency medical services have been working overtime to respond to the increased number of incidents. Hayatullah Amanat reported that the situation required additional resources to manage the volume of calls.
Traffic enforcement units have been deployed to high-risk areas, particularly bridges, overpasses, and shaded road sections where ice tends to form first and melt last. These locations have accounted for the majority of the reported incidents.
Safety Recommendations for Motorists
Transportation officials are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution and consider the following safety measures:
- Reduce speed significantly below posted limits
- Increase following distance to at least 8-10 seconds
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration
- Use winter tires with adequate tread depth
- Plan for additional travel time
The situation serves as a stark reminder that winter driving in Saskatchewan requires extra preparation and vigilance. With colder temperatures forecasted to continue, officials expect challenging road conditions to persist throughout the week.
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and road condition reports before traveling. The city has also increased salt and sand application on major routes, but drivers should remain cautious as conditions can change rapidly.
