The mountain town of Banff, Alberta, has just experienced its driest meteorological winter ever, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. Covering the three coldest months—December through February—the 2024–25 winter brought only 15.8 mm of precipitation, just 26% of the usual 59.9 mm, marking the lowest level recorded in over 134 years of data.

Meteorologists define “meteorological winter” based on the December–February timeframe, distinct from astronomical seasons tied to solstices and equinoxes. The sparse precipitation has prompted concern across Alberta, with other southern cities also nearing historic dryness: Red Deer logged its third driest winter with only 18.8 mm, while Calgary saw just 9.8 mm—a fourth-driest winter on record there.

Beyond precipitation shortfalls, snowpack levels remain well below average, signaling broader water supply implications for the region. Yet a brief reprieve could come—meteorologists note that March and April tend to be the snowiest months for Banff and elsewhere in southern Alberta, offering a chance to offset the winter deficit.

This trend highlights growing climate fragility in the Rockies, where ecosystems, tourism, and winter sports depend heavily on consistent snowfall. As spring approaches, the lingering question is whether late-season storms will intervene—or if this dry spell will set a new norm.