The Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93N) is anticipated to close today (Monday, March 16) at 4 p.m.

Jasper National Park forecasters are expecting a significant snow storm, which will increase the avalanche hazard and require avalanche control operations.

“Up to 75cm of snow may arrive by Thursday with rain at lower elevations,” an internal Parks Canada email reads. 

The closure would start at Athabasca Falls on the north end and at Saskatchewan Crossing on the south end of Hwy 93N.

Forecasters had low confidence with their information and changes to the anticipated closures and control operations are likely, JNP’s Visitor Safety team said in the email. 

“Weather models do not agree in amounts, timing nor duration. There is potential to delay avalanche controls until conditions allow.”

Motorists should check 511.alberta.ca before travelling.

Parks Canada says the agency only closes roads when necessary, when weather, road or avalanche conditions present a risk to human life. More information on how the Icefields Parkway is managed in the winter is on the Jasper National Park website.

Jasper Local staff // info@thejasperlocal.com