Map of the impacted area, including parts of southwestern Alberta going into British Columbia. (Photo: Avalanche Canada)

By Justin Goulet

Special avalanche warning issued for BC and southwestern Alberta

Feb 29, 2024 | 10:37 AM

REVELSTOKE, BC – A Special Public Avalanche Warning has been placed for recreational backcountry users in parts of British Columbia and southwestern Alberta.

Avalanche Canada, in partnership with Parks Canada, Kananaskis Country and the Province of BC, has issued the warning that will apply through the end of March 4, 2024.

Officials said recent storms have deposited a significant amount of snow across western Canada. The new snowfall sits on weak layers established in early February. Avalanche Canada said although the natural avalanche activity has slowed, human-triggered incidents remain likely.

Forecaster Tyson Rettie said, “We’ve been tracking these weak layers closely over this past month. While their structure has different forms across different regions, the result is the same—highly problematic layers that remain reactive to human triggering.”

Rettie added, “This has been the biggest storm of the season, and we know backcountry users are eager to enjoy the snow. But it’s vital to not underestimate the instability of these weak layers. Any avalanche triggered on them could be deadly.”

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Officials advise that backcountry users stick to lower-angle slopes and choose smaller objectives to minimize the consequences of an avalanche.

The avalanche forecast is available at the Avalanche Canada website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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