Peter Shokeir | [email protected]
A special public avalanche warning was issued March 3 across a widespread area of B.C. and Alberta, including Jasper National Park.
Avalanche Canada, in partnership with Parks Canada and Alberta’s Kananaskis Country, issued the warning for recreational backcountry users as the forecasted increasing temperatures are expected to destabilize the snowpack.
“There are persistent weak layers in the snowpack all across this area,” said Karl Klassen, warning service manager for Avalanche Canada, in a release.
“When the sun and these high temperatures hit this complex snowpack, it’s going to have a destabilizing effect that will make natural and human-triggered avalanches much more likely.”
This special warning is in effect immediately and will stay effective through the weekend. It applies to the following regions:
- North Rockies
- Cariboos
- Jasper National Park
- Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks
- Kananaskis Country
- South Rockies
- Lizard Range and Flathead
- Waterton Lakes National Park
According to reports, there have been several close calls recently, while the Rocky Mountain National Parks has large avalanches running the full extent of their paths.
“There is a lot of uncertainty with these weak layers,” Klassen said.
“These warm temperatures are going to be a concern across all these regions, with the most significant impact in the south.”
Everyone in a backcountry party is asked to bring the essential rescue gear, including a transceiver, probe, and shovel, as well as the knowledge to use this equipment.
Backcountry users are advised to check their regional avalanche forecasts at www.avalanche.ca
