A warm storm moving through British Columbia this weekend is heightening avalanche risks during a historically dangerous time for avalanches in Canada, according to forecasters. Environment and Climate Change Canada has indicated that the system will bring precipitation, strong winds, and increased freezing levels across much of the province. Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with the weather agency, emphasized the potential for higher elevations to experience significant snowfall as the weekend progresses.
Avalanche peril is anticipated to peak on Saturday in areas of the South Coast, including the North Shore Mountains, as freezing levels are projected to exceed 1,500 to 1,800 meters. The forecast warns of problematic precipitation, with rain expected to fall on existing snow in various mountain regions, a combination that can escalate avalanche danger. Karina Bakker, a forecaster at Avalanche Canada, explained that storms depositing new snow or rain onto existing snow can intensify pressure on layers, making them more susceptible to collapse or sliding.
The current risk is attributed to “persistent slab” conditions, where a layer of snow sits atop weaker snow buried deeper in the snowpack, according to forecasters. These deeper weak layers, ranging from 50 to 150 centimeters deep, can cause slab avalanches when the weaker layer gives way under the weight of the snow above, triggering a slide down the slope. Unlike other types of avalanches, persistent slabs are challenging to predict as customary warning signs may not manifest due to their depth within the snowpack.
March is historically a perilous month for avalanches, with data from Avalanche Canada showing the highest number of avalanche fatalities occurring during this time over the past two decades. The evolution of the snowpack during winter, characterized by the accumulation of multiple layers from cold spells, storms, and warm periods, contributes to increased risk in March. Since December 2025, five individuals have lost their lives in avalanches in British Columbia, including a snowmobiler and a professional snowboarder.
Avalanche Canada advises individuals venturing into the backcountry to consult daily forecasts and opt for conservative terrain choices. In times of considerable avalanche danger, it is recommended to stick to slopes under 30 degrees, while avoiding avalanche-prone areas entirely when the danger rating is high. Patience and caution are paramount when navigating avalanche-prone regions.
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