A complex and dangerous snowpack is cause for concern according to Avalanche Canada which is warning of a potential for increased avalanche risk in much of the province this week.
A number of areas in B.C. are facing these conditions including the Boundry, Columbia, Purcell and Rockie Mountain ranges.
According to Avalanche Canada, the snowpack in these areas contains a number of weak layers and recent snowstorms have buried these layers.
These conditions can create an unstable snowpack and make it very easy for skiers or snowmobilers to trigger large avalanches.
Avalanche Canada has recorded a number of near misses over January, as well as a fatal avalanche accident north of Fernie earlier this month.
"Many of these incidents are occurring in what is generally considered fairly safe terrain, such as relatively low-angle slopes, treed areas and even heavily tracked slopes,” said James Floyer, Forecasting Program Supervisor for Avalanche Canada.
“It’s a complex situation and we are now at the tipping point. The warmer temperatures forecast for the coming weekend will definitely increase the chances of triggering an avalanche.”
Click here for current avalanche conditions.
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