On March 02, 2026, Environment Canada reported unseasonably warm weather arriving in Banff, Alberta. Daytime temperatures are reaching 8°C, which is 7°C higher than the usual high of 1°C for this time of year.
The warm spell follows a major storm in late February that dropped over 30 centimetres of snow in the surrounding mountains. These higher temperatures are causing a freeze-thaw cycle, which creates slushy streets during the day and dangerous ice on sidewalks in the morning.
The Town of Banff requires all residents and businesses to clear snow and ice from the sidewalks next to their property within 24 hours. This measure is intended to help pedestrians stay safe as the melting snow turns into ice overnight.
Safety officials at Avalanche Canada have noted that the rapid warming increases the risk of avalanches in the national park. The sun and warmth can weaken the heavy snowpack, making it more likely for snow to slide on steep slopes.
The spring-like conditions are expected to end later in the week as cooler weather returns. There is a 60 per cent chance of flurries and a drop in temperature forecast for March 05, 2026.
