Saskatchewan truckers will have to start lightening their loads, as warmer temperatures begin to thaw roadbeds in the province.

Effective today (February 24), winter weight allowances are being removed in the southwest corner of the province.

"Since we've had some milder winter weather, it will impact truck haul weights on some Saskatchewan highways, starting in the Southwest part of the province." said Steve Shaheen, an spokesperson with Saskatchewan Highways and Infrastructure. "Truckers and shippers across the province are advised that they should begin reducing the size of the loads on secondary roads with the removal of winter weights."

Shaheen said the lighter weight allowances will gradually spread northeast, as the roadbeds continue to soften. He points out this is happening a bit earlier than usual. "Typically this would begin in mid or late March, but like I said, it's always dependant on the weather." Shaheen added.

"What I can tell people is that the heavier weight allowances are formally being removed in the southwest this Friday (February 24th). Restriction orders will frequently be updated online until March 15th, at which time winter weights are no longer in effect for the entire province."

The highways official also reminded truckers that annual spring road bans will also be coming into effect in the coming weeks. "Spring road bans are a tool that we use in the province, and rural municipalities have used for decades to mitigate damage to infrastructure during the sensitive periods." he told Discover Weyburn.

"So once the bans are announced, they take effect for roughly six weeks, and again move in a northeasterly fashion as the warmer temperatures spread across the province."

Truckers and trucking companies can stay up to date on weight restrictions and road bans through the HIGHWAYS HOTLINE WEBSITE.

They can also get the latest information by telephone.

Regina: 306-787-7623

Saskatoon: 306-933-8333

Toll Free: 888-335-7623