Special Public Avalanche Warning for southern B.C., western Alberta

With temperatures warming up and many weak layers of snow in the backcountry, Avalanche Canada and Parks Canada have issued a Special Public Avalanche Warning for southern B.C. and western Alberta.

The warning is in place until Monday. It includes the Sea-to-Sky and South Coast Inland regions, from Squamish to Pemberton. It also applies to the North and South Columbias; Purcells; Kootenay Boundary; and Glacier, Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks.

“This special warning targets regions where [weak] layers have proven to be an issue. The combination of this snowpack structure and higher temperatures will make natural and human-triggered avalanches much more likely,” said James Floyer, forecasting program supervisor for Avalanche Canada.

A Special Public Avalanche Warning was issued on Jan. 20, 2022 for southern B.C. and western Alberta. (Courtesy: avalanche.ca)

He says there have been several close calls reported recently.

Forecasters believe the combination of the snowpack structure, sunshine, and higher temperatures creates a greater risk of natural and human-triggered avalanches.

They urge backcountry users to exercise caution during this warming period and ensure they have essential rescue gear including a transceiver, probe, and shovel — and know how to use them.

Related articles:

• B.C. avalanche forecasters using simulations to predict danger

• North Shore Rescue saves skier caught in avalanche with broken leg

You’re advised to check avalanche.ca for the latest conditions.