A Special Public Avalanche Warning has been issued for the central Rockies, affecting regions in Alberta and British Columbia.
Avalanche Canada, in partnership with Alberta Parks, Parks Canada, and the Province of British Columbia, announced that the warning is in effect immediately and will remain in place through Monday.
The warning applies to areas in and around Kananaskis Country, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Kootenay National Park, and Yoho National Park.
Officials urge all backcountry users to exercise extreme caution and to be well-prepared before heading into avalanche terrain.
“With a special public avalanche warning in effect for Kananaskis Country, we want to make sure anyone heading to the mountains exercises extreme caution,” said Todd Loewen, Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks.
“All backcountry users should educate themselves on avalanche terrain, avalanche safety equipment, and companion rescue, and stay up to date on advisories and warnings in the area. Taking the time to fully prepare yourself and avoid dangerous avalanche conditions will help keep you and those around you safe.”
The warning comes after reports of several large avalanches in the Rockies over the past two weeks, resulting in two fatalities.
Officials say the snowpack remains unstable due to warming temperatures and stormy weather, which significantly increases the likelihood of avalanches.
Anyone venturing into avalanche-prone areas is advised to carry essential rescue gear, including a transceiver, probe, and shovel, and to have the proper training to use it. Outdoor recreationists and backpackers are urged to check the latest avalanche forecasts at avalanche.ca before heading out.
To minimize risk, Avalanche Canada recommends sticking to lower-angle slopes (less than 30 degrees), choosing terrain that reduces avalanche risk, traveling one at a time when in avalanche terrain, and avoiding sun-exposed slopes during warm or sunny conditions.
Avalanches are the deadliest natural disasters in Canada, claiming more lives annually than all other natural disasters combined.