A spring storm system is moving into Banff this week, bringing a mix of rain, potential thunderstorms, and rising snow levels to the region. According to Environment Canada, residents can expect a 60 percent chance of rain showers on Wednesday, May 20, along with a risk of thunderstorms late in the morning and in the afternoon.
The weather system will push snow levels up to approximately 1,900 metres near noon on Wednesday. This elevation change is particularly relevant for those travelling through Banff National Park, as higher mountain passes like Bow Summit at 2,068 metres and Sunwapta Pass at 2,034 metres may see changing conditions while the townsite sits at 1,384 metres.
Beyond the immediate weather, Parks Canada has issued a standing hiking hazard warning for the park due to one of the largest deep snowpacks on record. Officials caution that popular trails, which usually do not become safe for travel until mid-June, currently present a significant avalanche risk and unpredictable conditions caused by freeze-thaw cycles. Hikers are reminded that tracks left by others are not a reliable indicator of a safe route.
Conditions are expected to improve mid-week. Following Wednesday’s storm, Environment Canada forecasts sunny skies on Thursday with a high of 17°C, followed by a mix of sun and cloud on Friday with a high of 17°C.
