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High avalanche danger ratings have been issued for areas across southeastern B.C., December 28, 2022. (Image: Avalanche Canada)

High avalanche risk in southeastern B.C.

Dec 28, 2022 | 9:57 AM

FERNIE, B.C. – Officials are warning anyone planning to head into the wilderness in southeastern B.C. to be careful.

Avalanche Canada has rated the avalanche danger rating for areas across the Kootenay region “high,” and says travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended at this time.

They add that heavy snowfall, wind, and warm temperatures will continue to add to an already weak snowpack.

This has lead to an increased risk of human-triggered snow slides at all elevations.

There have been several avalanches in the Kootenays over the last couple of days, some of which occurred naturally while others have been professionally-conducted controlled avalanches.

For now, Avalanche Canada says to keep back country activities simple and that conditions are set to improve in the coming days.

“The warm weather and continued precipitation is beginning to subside. Uncertainty is present with the timing of when the snowpack will stabilize. Give the snowpack time to cool and heal before considering moving into challenging and complex terrain,” reads an advisory from Avalanche Canada.

For up-to-date avalanche danger ratings, go to Avalanche.ca.

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