Unpredictable weather is slowing down construction of ice roads in the Beaufort Delta region.

A cautionary note was included in the latest highway conditions report from the Department of Infrastructure.

"Historical opening dates for the Mackenzie River ice crossing for light traffic have been between Nov. 25 and Dec. 9," reads the notice. "However, due to changing weather conditions this season, [the] ice crossing can be expected to be completed later than historical dates.

"Historical opening dates for the Peel River ice crossing for light traffic have been between Nov. 15 and 25. However, due to changing weather conditions this season, [the] ice crossing can be expected to be completed later than historical dates. The Aklavik ice road is closed. Historical opening dates have been between Dec. 11 and Jan. 15."

The Mackenzie River ferry shut down for the season on Oct. 29 and the Peel River Ferry closed on Nov. 5. Until the ice roads are completed, all goods must be flown into the region. The federal government subsidizes cost increases associated with flying in food through Nutrition North's northern food subsidy.

The road report also cautions about slippery conditions across the Dempster Highway and construction between kilometers 26 and 28 reducing traffic to one lane. Icy conditions are also prevalent on the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway and drivers are advised to be on the lookout for gravel trucks from km 58 onward to the hamlet.