Yukoners Face Worst North Klondike Highway Conditions Ever

UPDATE: Yukoners are encountering the worst road conditions ever reported on the North Klondike Highway, specifically between the Village of Carmacks and Dawson City. Drivers are warning others about dangerous potholes and severe dips that pose significant hazards.

Residents like Fran Morberg-Green, who has traveled this stretch for over 30 years, described her recent trip from Whitehorse as “the worst experience” to date. “Past Carmacks to Dawson is usually pretty bad,” she stated, expressing frustration over the lack of immediate repairs. “The highway was terrible. There are potholes, but there’s no action to fill them in.”

Morberg-Green highlighted that some potholes have become “the size of craters,” creating perilous driving conditions. She recounted a frightening moment when a vehicle nearly collided with her as she swerved to avoid a pothole. “I was afraid I might run someone off the road if someone was trying to pass me and I didn’t notice them,” she added.

Monique Girard, a regular commuter between Whitehorse and Dawson City, echoed these concerns, stating, “It’s the worst I’ve ever seen it.” She noted that roadwork typically conducted on this route has been absent, with the situation worsening as one travels further north. “Potholes so big that if a small car falls in, it’s not coming out,” she warned.

Girard emphasized the dangers this poses, particularly for tourists. “I wouldn’t recommend it to others, especially with a motorhome. The frost heaves are unpredictable, and there are no warning signs,” she said. “You get to your destination and everything’s off the wall; dishes fall out, cupboards open. It’s just horrible.”

The Yukon Department of Highways and Public Works is aware of the situation. Mackenzie Ingram, the acting director for the transportation maintenance branch, acknowledged the challenges in managing this segment of highway, citing saturated ground conditions and ineffective pothole filling materials. “It’s a tough piece of road to manage,” he explained.

Ingram recently traveled the North Klondike Highway and reported that crews have started placing signs and flags to alert drivers to hazards. “We are doing everything we can with the resources available,” he said, emphasizing the importance of public safety as crews work daily to manage and improve road conditions.

He advised travelers, “Drive to conditions. If you notice hazards, reduce speed and pay attention to the signs.” Ingram encouraged the public to reach out with any concerns or feedback to the Department directly.

This urgent situation on the North Klondike Highway continues to develop, and residents are urged to stay vigilant while traveling. The Yukon’s challenging weather and road conditions underscore the need for immediate action and awareness among all drivers. As travelers prepare for upcoming journeys, the focus remains on safety and addressing these hazardous conditions without delay.

Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds.