Drivers should take care as Fort McMurray re-entry begins June 1

Starting June 1, traffic to Fort McMurray is expected to increase dramatically as evacuees begin a staged re-entry using Highway 63 and Highway 881. Drivers travelling on these highways can expect increased congestion and possible delays.

People returning to Fort McMurray are reminded to follow the re-entry plan and travel on their designated day to help ease congestion on area highways. Information about the staged re-entry can be found at emergency.alberta.ca.

All travellers are reminded to drive safely, be patient, don’t take chances, obey the rules of the road and follow speed limits.

The RCMP are increasing their presence on the highways between Edmonton and Fort McMurray, including Highway 63 and 881. Vehicles are not permitted to park alongside highways and may be towed. Random camping is not permitted alongside highways or at highway rest areas.

Both Highway 63 and Highway 881, as well as the highways that connect to them (e.g. Highway 28, 28A, Highway 55, Highway 36, Highway 663, Highway 831) are open to travel in both directions.

The twinning of Highway 63 is essentially complete, with two lanes open in northbound and southbound directions between Fort McMurray at the north end and the junction with Highway 55 at the south end.

Check 511 Alberta regularly for timely and accurate road condition updates.