Bow River rising in Banff as snowpack melts, rain continues
High streamflow advisory remains in place as the larger-than-normal snowpack and ongoing rain raise water levels, forcing playground and trail closures.
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Banff is monitoring the Bow River closely as a larger-than-normal snowpack combined with heavy rainfall has raised water levels throughout the park, forcing the closure of playgrounds, benches, low-lying trails, and sports fields.
A high streamflow advisory remained in effect Monday, though it hasn't been upgraded to a flood warning thanks to lighter-than-forecasted rainfall over the weekend. Cloud cover and a late start to rain Saturday may have slowed snowmelt.
Banff Mayor Corrie Di Manno said the town deployed a dam device as a precaution to protect museums and residential areas, though it hasn't needed to be filled yet. Sandbags have been placed in low-lying areas.
"Please stay away from the river bank as conditions can change and the river line is changing rapidly as well," Di Manno said. "The river is moving really fast with all sorts of debris in there that you can't see because it's so muddy."
Environment Canada predicts another 40 to 60 mm of rain by Tuesday evening. Alberta Environment warned that elevated water levels could cause groundwater issues downstream in Canmore and Exshaw.
The town also warned that elk may migrate to recreational grounds to escape flooded areas—locals and visitors are advised to keep a distance of three tour buses away from the animals.