Image: Avalanche Canada / Avalanche Canada has partnered with Parks Canada and the provincial government of British Columbia to issue a special public avalanche warning for recreational backcountry users across most forecast regions of B.C. and Alberta. The avalanche warning takes effect immediately and lasts through Monday, March 4.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Avalanche warning issued

Special avalanche warning issued for most of backcountry B.C., western Alberta

Feb 29, 2024 | 12:23 PM

CHILLIWACK — Avalanche Canada has partnered with Parks Canada and the provincial government of British Columbia to issue a special public avalanche warning for recreational backcountry users across most forecast regions of B.C. and Alberta.

According to a news release from the agency dated Thursday, February 29, this special warning takes effect immediately and will apply through the end of the day on Monday, March 4.

Avalanche Canada says recent storms have produced a significant amount of snow across Western Canada. This new snow sits on prominent weak layers established in early February. Since the storm has recently abated, the natural avalanche activity has slowed but human-triggered avalanches remain likely.

“We’ve been tracking these weak layers closely over this past month,” explains Avalanche Canada forecaster Tyson Rettie. “While their structure has different forms across different regions, the result is the same—highly problematic layers that remain reactive to human triggering.”

“This has been the biggest storm of the season, and we know backcountry users are eager to enjoy the snow,” adds Rettie. “But it’s vital to not underestimate the instability of these weak layers. Any avalanche triggered on them could be deadly.”

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Exercising discretion about terrain choices will be a critical strategy for all backcountry users over the next few days. Avalanche Canada says a practical way to do this is by sticking to lower-angle slopes and choosing smaller objectives that minimize the consequences of an avalanche.

“Given the unpredictability of avalanches, and their devastating potential consequences, we’re urging everyone to stay safe by exercising caution and making informed decisions when planning a trip in the backcountry,” said Bowinn Ma, BC’s Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “Please follow the guidance of Avalanche Canada during this time of heightened risk.”

Backcountry users should always check the avalanche forecast at www.avalanche.ca. Everyone in a backcountry party needs the essential rescue gear—transceiver, probe, and shovel—and the training to use it.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

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Special avalanche warning issued for most of backcountry B.C., western Alberta

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