Avalanche Risk Rising – Time to Step Back and Adapt Your Mindset

After weeks of stable conditions across much of western Canada, a significant shift in avalanche danger is underway. Avalanche Canada is warning backcountry users that new snowfall is accumulating over weak, persistent layers, creating dangerous and highly unpredictable conditions. With this sudden change, now is the time to adjust your approach and step back from avalanche terrain.

Changing Conditions, Changing Risk
For the past three weeks, the backcountry has seen minimal snowfall, leading to the formation of weak, poorly bonded layers. As storm cycles return and deposit fresh snow, these weak layers will struggle to support the weight, resulting in increased avalanche activity, both natural and human-triggered. These slides could be large, widely propagating, and deadly.

“This is not the time to push into steep or complex terrain,” warns Avalanche Canada. “New snow is falling on a variety of frankly crummy surfaces, meaning we are heading into a dangerous period where avalanches will become more frequent and more destructive.”

Backcountry Travel Tips: How to Stay Safe
With this rising risk, every backcountry user must reassess their travel choices and err on the side of caution. Avalanche Canada recommends the following safety measures:

• Stick to low-angle terrain—Dense forests and slopes shallower than 25 degrees with no overhead hazard provide the safest options.
• Avoid avalanche terrain—As new snow accumulates, even experienced skiers and riders should dial back terrain choices and avoid high-risk areas.
• Steer clear of terrain traps—Features like cliffs, gullies, and depressions can amplify the consequences of an avalanche.
• Look for warning signs—Recent avalanches, whumpfing sounds, and shooting cracks indicate instability—turn around if you see them.
• Beware of remote triggers—You don’t have to be on a steep slope to trigger an avalanche. Be mindful of overhead slopes that could slide onto lower-angled terrain.
• Stay disciplined—Powder fever is real, but no line is worth the risk. If conditions are suspect, stick to safer zones and save the big terrain for another day.
• Travel one at a time—When crossing avalanche terrain, never expose the entire group at once and always regroup in safe zones.

Stay Informed and Make Smart Decisions
The backcountry is unpredictable, and knowledge is your best defense. Stay up to date with the latest avalanche bulletins from Avalanche Canada and always carry essential safety gear and travel safely.

With big storms on the way, this is not the time for aggressive line choices or pushing limits. Adapt, stay disciplined, and ensure that every adventure ends with a safe return home.

For the latest avalanche forecasts and safety resources, visit avalanche.ca.

Source: Avalanche Canada