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Backcountry users warned of avalanche risk

Feb 9, 2017 | 10:25 AM

ALBERTA – A concern about backcountry users, especially those without experience, has prompted an avalanche warning from Parks Canada.

A Special Public Avalanche Warning has been issued for Waterton Lakes National Park, as well as Kananaskis Country and the South Rockies and Lizard and Flathead regions. Also included is the southern part of the Purcells.

The warning is in effect from Friday, Feb. 10 to Monday, Feb. 13 and applies to recreational backcountry users. Parks Canada says the snowpack has doubled from last weekend’s storm, and expects more people to head out as the weather gets nicer.

The concern is that while natural avalanches have tapered off, an inexperienced backcountry user could potentially trigger a large one. Dense slabs of snow have been created by strong winds, atop a weak base.

People with little or no avalanche training are urged to stay away from avalanche terrain. Those with experience are asked to stay in simple terrain. Everyone using the backcountry  must have a transciever, shovel, and probe, and it’s recommended people have at least a two-day Avalanche Skills Training 1 course.

Current avalanche information can be found at www.avalanche.ca.