The skating oval at Curtis Field in Rocky Mountain House is temporarily closed due to unseasonably warm weather, the Town of Rocky Mountain House announced Monday. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is forecasting above-zero temperatures for the entire week, with daily highs expected to remain well above the typical 0°C high for this time of year.
According to the town, the balmy conditions have already begun to take a toll on the ice. Crews are monitoring the situation, and officials are urging the public to respect the signage and the locked gate while they wait for cooler weather to improve the ice conditions.
The temporary closure follows similar disruptions in recent years. Warm spells in January and February often prompt temporary shutdowns, as crews must patch areas where the ice has deteriorated or where shale is showing through.
The town opened the oval on December 20, 2024— a delayed opening due to unseasonably warm conditions in November and December. Crews usually rely on 10 to 14 cold weather days to create the surface, but this year, the freezing temperatures didn’t arrive until later in the season.
Crews flood the ice at the Curtis Field Skating Oval. (Town of Rocky Mountain House)
The town also maintains an outdoor rink on the north side of the Rocky Regional Recreation Centre, which is still open and ready for use. This rink, being less exposed to direct sunlight, has remained in better condition, says Tiffany Robinson, communications officer with the Town of Rocky Mountain House.
With the big thaw, residents are also being encouraged to clear nearby storm drains of ice, snow, and debris when safe to do so to help with drainage and prevent pooling water on streets.
The town says it will continue monitoring the situation and update residents when conditions improve, ensuring the community can enjoy the skating oval to its fullest this winter.
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