A major multi-vehicle collision occurred today on Highway 1 near the Highway 1A interchange in Canmore, Alberta, resulting in significant traffic disruptions and temporary road closures. Emergency services are actively responding to the incident while authorities investigate the cause of the crash.
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What Happened
The collision took place on the westbound lanes of the Trans-Canada Highway, near the junction with Highway 1A, involving multiple vehicles. Emergency responders, including the RCMP, local paramedics, and Canmore Fire Rescue, arrived promptly after multiple 911 calls reporting the crash.
While at least one ambulance was seen departing the scene, details regarding the number and severity of injuries remain unclear. Authorities have confirmed that several individuals may require medical attention. As a precaution, the westbound lanes of Highway 1 were closed, with traffic being rerouted to alternative routes.
Who Was Affected?
Drivers traveling to Canmore, Banff, and surrounding areas experienced major delays due to the accident. Motorists are being advised to seek alternate routes to avoid further congestion. The affected stretch of Highway 1 is particularly busy, serving as a main route for commuters and tourists heading to Banff National Park.
Background and Timeline
The accident occurred during morning hours, prompting RCMP officers to manage traffic and redirect vehicles to Highway 1A and local roads. Road closures lasted for more than an hour for some motorists, causing significant delays.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation. Authorities are reviewing factors such as traffic volume, weather conditions, and road surface quality as potential contributors. Anyone with dashcam footage or eyewitness information is urged to come forward to assist with the inquiry.
Public and Social Media Reaction
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “chaotic”, with vehicles halted on the highway before emergency responders arrived. Social media users have shared updates about traffic conditions, while local residents advised others to avoid the area and remain safe.
Official Statement and Next Steps
RCMP officials have assured the public that further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. They emphasized the importance of safe driving practices, especially in high-traffic areas like Canmore, and reminded drivers to:
- Reduce speed
- Maintain a safe distance between vehicles
- Stay vigilant for hazards or sudden stops
Authorities continue to work on clearing the scene, and the cause of the collision remains under investigation. The RCMP encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward to help with the ongoing investigation.
This story will be updated as more details become available.