The Banff RCMP is urging drivers to prepare for winter conditions and check road reports as heavy snow falls across Banff, Alberta. With up to 20 centimetres of snow expected in some areas by the middle of the week, police are reminding residents and visitors to plan ahead before heading out on the road.
Officers recommend using 511 Alberta to see the latest highway conditions, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. The local police detachment is not monitored 24 hours a day for non-urgent reports, so anyone facing an immediate emergency should call 911 right away.
According to Parks Canada, winter tires or chains are legally required for anyone traveling on Highway 93N and Highway 93S. This rule is in place until March 31, 2026, to help prevent collisions on the Icefields Parkway and the Banff-Windermere Highway.
The Town of Banff is currently reviewing local traffic safety to better understand areas where pedestrians and vehicles often interact. Weather forecasts from Environment and Climate Change Canada suggest the area could see at least 7 to 10 centimetres of new snow over the coming days.