A Friday morning vehicle collision west of Canmore has led to the closure of the eastbound lanes of Highway 1, causing significant disruptions for travelers in the area. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are currently on the scene, reporting that at least two vehicles were involved in the incident.
Traffic is being turned around at the Banff gates, with officials estimating that the highway will reopen by 10 a.m. on March 28, 2025. Fortunately, the Town of Banff has confirmed that there were no injuries reported from the collision, although the highway conditions were described as very poor.
The weather played a significant role in the accident, as the region experienced periods of snow on the morning of the incident. This snowfall coincided with a spring storm moving through the province, leading to hazardous driving conditions. According to the Alberta Motor Association (AMA), the road was partially covered, further complicating travel.
As a result of the poor weather conditions and the highway closure, Roam Public Transit, which serves Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and the Bow Valley, is experiencing delays. Commuters relying on public transit should be prepared for interruptions in service due to the heavy snowfall.
In a related advisory, RCMP across Alberta issued a warning on the evening of March 27, 2025, urging the public to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. This notice, sent out at 10 p.m., highlighted the significant hazards posed by the weather and road conditions throughout the province.
"Alberta RCMP are advising the public to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary, as weather and road conditions pose a significant hazard throughout the province," the notice stated. Police are encouraging residents and travelers to continue monitoring alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
The combination of heavy snowfall and poor visibility has led to treacherous conditions on many roads across Alberta, prompting officials to take a proactive approach in ensuring public safety. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant and consider postponing travel plans until conditions improve.
As the situation develops, authorities will continue to provide updates on road conditions and closures. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official channels for the latest information.
In the meantime, the RCMP are working diligently to clear the scene of the collision and restore normal traffic flow on Highway 1. They remind drivers to exercise caution and adhere to all traffic advisories as the weather continues to impact travel in the region.
As spring approaches, Alberta often sees unpredictable weather patterns, and this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
For those who must travel, it is crucial to ensure vehicles are equipped for winter driving, including adequate tires and emergency supplies. Staying informed about weather forecasts and road conditions can make all the difference in ensuring a safe journey.
In summary, the collision west of Canmore has caused significant disruptions on Highway 1, with RCMP advising against unnecessary travel due to poor weather conditions. As the community navigates these challenges, the focus remains on safety and preparedness.
