Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Banff as a significant spring snowstorm moves through Southern Alberta, bringing the potential for 15 to 25 centimetres of snow to the region.
The alert, which went out on Sunday, March 29, 2026, warns that bands of heavy snow are creating rapidly changing travel conditions along major routes, including the Highway 1 and Highway 2 corridors. As of Monday morning, March 30, 2026, temperatures in the area were recorded at -6.1 degrees Celsius with wind chill values near -10 degrees Celsius.
Drivers heading through the mountains should be prepared for winter conditions, as this latest system follows a mid-week storm that previously caused numerous vehicle collisions and delays across the region. A separate snowfall warning is also in effect from 511 Alberta for the Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Saskatchewan River Crossing, where similar accumulation amounts are expected.
Because it is still within the mandated period ending March 31, Parks Canada reminds motorists that snow tires or chains are legally required on the Icefields Parkway and the Banff-Windermere Highway whenever roads are covered in snow or ice. While March typically sees about 24 centimetres of snow, heavy blizzards of this size are considered rare events.
Environment Canada asks residents to stay updated on the latest forecasts and report any severe weather observations by emailing ABstorm@ec.gc.ca, calling 1-800-239-0484, or using the #ABStorm hashtag on X.
