Severe weather changes this week in the Rocky Mountains have led to an avalanche alert issued by Parks Canada. Unseasonably warm temperatures peaking at 10°C on Thursday are predicted to plummet below freezing overnight. Rainfall expected on Thursday afternoon will transition into snowfall.
Avalanche Warning Details
Weather forecasts indicate that certain high-elevation areas, particularly along the Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper, could see significant snowfall accumulation. Projections suggest between 15 to 30 centimeters of snow may fall, impacting travel conditions.
Areas Affected
- Banff National Park
- Jasper National Park
- Icefields Parkway
Currently, snowfall warnings are active for both Banff and Jasper national parks. Environment Canada has cautioned that road and walkway navigation will be treacherous. Visibility in these regions may also be significantly reduced.
Travel Advisory
Leslie Horton, a traffic specialist, noted that travel on Highway 93 could be particularly hazardous. Individuals are urged to check 511alberta.ca for ongoing road condition updates prior to any travel in the mountains.
Temperature Fluctuations and Avalanche Risk
The forecast indicates temperatures will hover near freezing on Friday, but will rise to about 6°C over the weekend. These fluctuating temperatures, combined with heavy snowfall, have raised alarms for rapidly changing avalanche conditions. Avalanche Canada has advised people planning mountain excursions to exercise extreme caution.
Avalanche Danger Ratings
| Location | Avalanche Danger Level |
|---|---|
| Jasper National Park | Moderate to Considerable |
| Banff National Park | Moderate to Considerable |
| Glacier National Park | High |
Officials continue to advise avoiding avalanche terrain due to the incoming storm. As conditions can change rapidly, staying informed is crucial for safety.
