Rivers swelling across Alberta Rockies as snowmelt peaks
Banff area rivers are flowing at higher-than-normal levels due to high snowpack and warm temperatures. Flood watches are in effect.
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Several rivers and streams in the Alberta Rockies are running at dangerous levels this weekend. Lake Louise RCMP and Parks Canada say the combination of high snowpack, warm temperatures, and forecasted rain has pushed water levels well above normal across Banff National Park.
Some low-lying areas are already experiencing nuisance flooding, with temporary trail and day-use closures in place. Conditions are expected to persist through Monday as snowmelt continues.
If you're planning a trip to Banff or monitoring conditions elsewhere in Alberta, the Alberta River Basins website offers real-time water level data and flow rates by river, plus cameras at some locations showing current conditions. The site also defines key advisories: High Streamflow Advisories signal possible minor flooding in low-lying areas; Flood Watches mean levels could exceed bankfull; Flood Warnings mean flooding is imminent.
Emergency response partners are monitoring the situation closely.