Avalanche Canada is reporting dangerous avalanche conditions are expected in and around the East Kootenay as storms bring mild temperatures, heavy snowfall, and strong winds.

Around 25 to 45 cm of new snow was expected to fall overnight and through Sunday (Feb. 23), with the highest amounts forecast for the Lizard Range, Avalanche Canada said.

“At lower elevations this will fall as rain. The combined storm snow is covering old wind-affected surfaces in open areas, and 20 to 30 cm of settling snow overlying facetted snow in wind-sheltered areas. A persistent weak layer of surface hoar or facets from late January is currently buried 40 to 60 cm. There is significant concern for this layer becoming active with the incoming precipitation and warming. The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled, with no other layers of concern.”

Because of the conditions, Avalanche Canada is suggesting backcountry users scale back on visits.

“Because the exact timing, intensity, and track of each storm system remain uncertain, it will be important to regularly check the avalanche bulletin heading through the weekend. One thing is certain, it’s time to dial back our exposure to avalanche terrain,” stated Avalanche Canada forecast program manager Ryan Buhler.

Avalanche conditions are rated as ‘high’ for the alpine, treeline and below treeline for the Lizard Range for today and tomorrow (Feb. 24).

Conditions in the eastern B.C. Rockies are considerable today and high tomorrow morning in the alpine.

The southern Purcells have high avalanche risk in all three zones today and Feb. 24, with high risk the morning of Feb. 25.

The central Purcells have considerable avalanche risk today and tomorrow.

Check Avalanche Canada for up-to-date reporting.

Lead image: An avalanche that failed on the late January weak layer near Fernie recently. New snow and warming are expected to increase the likelihood and size of avalanches failing on this weak layer. Source: MIN user SAMIRSOMJI / Avalanche Canada photo

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