There is a Special Public Avalanche Warning in effect for Kootenay, Banff, Yoho and Jasper National Parks, Kananaskis Country, and areas immediately adjacent until the end of the day Monday, March 24.

Conditions outlined in this warning may also be found in areas immediately adjacent to these forecast regions, Avalanche Canada stated.

“Recent storm snow overlies a weak snowpack structure and has produced numerous very large avalanches over the last two weeks. Avalanches triggered on this layer have propagated widely, even through forested areas, and may involve the entire depth of the snowpack.

“There have been several serious avalanche incidents in this time, including two fatal incidents. Natural avalanche activity is beginning to taper off, but the snowpack remains primed for human-triggering. These avalanches could be triggered remotely, meaning they could be initiated from a distance. Warming, sun, and stormy weather will all increase the likelihood of triggering an avalanche.”

Weak layers, mostly consisting of faceted snow, are buried under up to 90 cm of storm snow, with up to 15 cm more expected by the weekend. This snow will add to slabs over the weak layers, perpetuating an unstable and highly volatile situation, Avalanche Canada said.

“It is important that backcountry recreationists remain alert to the dangerous avalanche conditions and don’t become complacent as the natural avalanche activity declines. It is essential to choose low-angle terrain without overhead hazard or terrain traps. Avalanches on this layer may run far and release unpredictably, slopes that have tracks on should not be considered safe.”

Avalanche conditions throughout the East Kootenay are currently rated considerable in the alpine and moderate in the treeline.

Avalanche Canada map

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