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Warning issued for human-triggered avalanches in B.C. mountains this weekend

Click to play video: 'Avalanche Canada warns of danger in several parts of B.C. ahead of weekend'
Avalanche Canada warns of danger in several parts of B.C. ahead of weekend
As we head into the weekend the risk of avalanche remains extremely high in the province. The weather conditions have created conditions perfect for a potential slide. Two people died earlier this week near Pemberton. As Paul Johnson reports that has not kept people out of the back country – Jan 1, 2021

Avalanche Canada has issued a warning to anyone planning to head to the local mountains this weekend.

The risk of a slide on the South Coast and the Sea to Sky regions is at level four, meaning that human-triggered avalanches are very likely.

Travel into the backcountry or out-of-bounds is not recommended and there have already been several slides on the North Shore mountains.

Avalanche Canada says the risk applies to all levels of the mountain, including alpine, treeline and below.

The warning will remain in effect throughout the weekend.

Click to play video: 'B.C. afternoon weather forecast: Jan. 1'
B.C. afternoon weather forecast: Jan. 1

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“We are experiencing basically a parade of storms moving across the South Coast,” meteorologist Kristi Gordon said Friday.

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“We’ve had a couple and we’ve got a major one on deck for tonight through the day tomorrow. We’ve got significant moisture in these storms so for lower elevation it means heavy rain, but in the mountains it means snow. In particular, the Sea to Sky Highway mountains.

“Those areas could see 60 centimetres of snow through the day tomorrow.”

Click to play video: 'Avalanche near Pemberton kills two snow bikers'
Avalanche near Pemberton kills two snow bikers

In addition, mountain highway closures are possible over the next few days as crews will likely have to perform avalanche control.

Anyone travelling should be prepared with extra warm clothing, snacks, water and at least a cellphone charger.

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