Canada's Roads That Arrive With Winter
Key Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| ice road | a road built on solid water | The truck crossed an ice road. |
| fuel | something a car or truck uses to move | The truck needs more fuel. |
| communities | groups of people who live in the same place | Many small communities are in the north. |
| weight limit | the heaviest weight that is allowed | The bridge has a weight limit. |
| rate | how fast something happens | The car moves at a slow rate. |
Article
In Canada's Northwest Territories, some roads only exist in winter. They are called winter roads and ice roads. They cross lakes, rivers and land covered with snow. [1]
These roads connect small communities to other roads. Nine communities in the Northwest Territories use this road system. The roads are usually open from December to April, but the dates can change because of the weather. [1]
Trucks use the roads to bring fuel, food and things for building. For some communities, these roads are very important because there is no road they can use all year. [1][2]
Making an ice road takes a lot of work. People check the ice, move snow and make the road safe. A road can also have a weight limit. A very heavy truck may need to wait until the ice is strong enough. [1]
Drivers must be careful. The government tells people to check the road and weather, bring warm things and things they may need, and drive at the right rate. Roads can close quickly when the weather gets warmer. [2]
A normal road stays in the same place all year. An ice road is different. Winter helps make the road. People use it for a few months. Then spring takes it away again.
Discussion Questions
- What would feel unusual about driving on an ice road?
- Which supplies are most important for a remote community in winter?
- What temporary roads or paths exist in your country?
- Why do you think a weight limit is especially important on ice?
- How might warmer winters change travel in northern Canada?
References
- Government of Northwest Territories, "Winter Driving."
- Government of Northwest Territories, "Safe driving on our highways and winter roads."
- National Research Council Canada, "Winter roads in Canada."