Warm spring temperatures and clear skies have prompted the Canadian Avalanche Centre to issue a warning for B.C.’s backcountry this weekend.
According to the CAC, there will be a sharp rise in avalanche danger in mountain ranges across the northern half of B.C., including the North Rockies, Cariboos, and throughout coastal and interior areas.
Officials say the warning is due to the end of stormy weather on Saturday, coupled with rapid warming.
“The clear skies forecast for Saturday following all that new snow will be very tempting for backcountry users of all types,” said CAC avalanche forecaster Shannon Werner.
“But the temperature is predicted to rise significantly, which means the avalanche danger will spike this weekend. The storm snow will be primed for triggering and deeply buried weak layers are also likely to be a concern.”
Backcountry users are being urged to be extremely careful and conservative in their terrain choices and to be equipped with avalanche safety equipment.
“Everyone in the party needs an avalanche transceiver, a probe and a shovel every day, regardless of expected conditions. And of course everyone needs to be familiar with the equipment and practiced with it. If an avalanche occurs, there is no time to go for help,” Werner said.
According to the CAC, there is an 80 per cent chance of survival if an avalanche victim is found within 10 minutes. After 35 minutes, there is less than a 10 per cent chance of survival.
Backcountry users are also urged to carry airbags and to check all equipment to make sure it works before heading out.
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