Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, and Jasper National Parks, and Kananaskis Country are under a special avalanche warning due to unstable snowpack conditions.
Avalanche Canada says the warning will remain in effect until Monday, March 24.
Recent snowfall has buried some weak layers, leading to several large avalanches over the last two weeks.
This winter, serious avalanches have killed two people in the Kootenays.
While natural avalanches are less frequent now, human-caused avalanches are still a significant risk.
“We had snow deposited, creating a slab on top of already weak layers in the snowpack, that has created quite dangerous avalanche conditions,” said Colin Garritty, Avalanche Canada forecaster and field technician.
“With the warming patterns we’re heading into, that’s a recipe for avalanche conditions.”
Avalanches could be triggered at a distance, with warming, sunny and stormy conditions increasing the likelihood further.
Outdoor recreationists are urged to use caution or avoid using backcountry areas altogether.
“Right now, It’s really important to have a conservative mindset when you’re in avalanche terrain. If identifying avalanche terrain is a challenge for you, then you should avoid avalanche-prone areas entirely,” said Garritty.
“If you move into avalanche terrain, do so very carefully and be really diligent about your choices, sticking to low-angled slopes of 30 degrees or less, especially in clearings or alpine terrain.”
Garritty says those heading into the backcountry should also travel in groups and ensure they stay in constant contact with each other.
“Make sure you’re practicing group decision-making, making sure everyone in the group is heard and the safest decision wins out,” said Garritty.
“Travel one at a time when you’re crossing avalanche terrain and regroup in safe spots to manage the group’s exposure.”
You should also make sure to carry essential emergency gear such as a transceiver, probe and shovel.
You can find more info on current avalanche conditions here.
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