Canmore, Alberta is in for a stretch of sunny, above-average temperatures this week, with the mercury expected to hit 32 C by Saturday before a sharp cool-down arrives Sunday, according to Environment Canada.
The extended forecast shows clear skies and climbing temperatures from Thursday through Saturday, with highs of 28 C on Thursday, 30 C on Friday, and 32 C on Saturday. Overnight lows will be around 11 C, making for pleasant evenings. These temperatures are well above the seasonal normals of 22 C for this time of year.
A fog advisory was in effect Tuesday morning, but conditions have since cleared to sunny weather. Residents can expect ideal outdoor recreation conditions through Friday, with wind gusts up to 50 km/h possible Tuesday afternoon.
The weekend brings a noticeable change. Saturday night will see cloudy periods with a 40 percent chance of showers and a low of 11 C. Sunday turns much cooler, with a mix of sun and cloud and a high of just 18 C.
This sunny stretch follows a recent spell of wildfire smoke that blanketed the Bow Valley. Thick smoke from fires in British Columbia and Washington State caused an orange-level air quality warning for Canmore and surrounding areas from July 24 to 26. Conditions have since improved, with smoke expected to clear by midweek.
While the warm weather is welcome for outdoor plans, Parks Canada reminds backcountry users that avalanche risk remains at higher elevations. A record winter snowfall has left significant snow in alpine and treeline areas, and heat or rain can increase avalanche danger.
The fire danger rating for the region remains very high, and Alberta Wildfire continues to advise caution. Residents and visitors are urged to check current conditions before heading into the backcountry and to be prepared for changing weather over the weekend.
