Update: Alberta 511 says the road has reopened but roads are still in poor condition.
RCMP say one man is dead and traffic continues to move slowly on HWY 43 near Fox Creek. They have not released the name or age of the victim but say he was killed in the first of many crashes near the Iosegun River.
Holiday travellers were stuck in long lineups in both the north and southbound lanes between Fox Creek and Whitecourt. Cpl. Laurel Scott says the first reports came in just after 1:00 p.m. about a serious accident about 20 kilometres east of Fox Creek in the southbound lanes. Scott says a second 15 vehicle pile up happened “shortly after” the first crash a kilometre up the highway.
The northbound lanes have re-opened but southbound lanes continue to be blocked. RCMP remain at the scene where they are directing traffic as tow trucks work to clear the scene. Traffic is backed up for several kilometres and it is expected it will take some time still to clear.
RCMP are continuing to respond to crashes along main highways around the province. They are recommending people only travel if absolutely necessary.