March 1, 2025

Avalanche Warning: Remote Triggers and Wide Propagation

Avalanche Canada has issued a Special Public Avalanche Warning for most forecast regions in Western Canada, citing a tricky snowpack and a persistent slab problem. Warm and sunny weather is expected to worsen avalanche conditions throughout the weekend, making careful terrain choices more important than ever.

A Concerning Trend: Wide Propagation and Remote Triggers

Recent avalanche activity has shown wide propagation and remote triggering, two alarming indicators of an unstable snowpack with a prominent weak layer beneath a cohesive slab. These factors significantly increase the danger, making avalanches larger, more unpredictable, and capable of traveling farther than expected.

A recent natural avalanche near Pemberton exemplifies this risk, propagating an astonishing 600 meters across multiple terrain features. This highlights the potential for avalanches to cross seemingly disconnected slopes, catching riders off guard.

Adding to the concern, remote triggering has been widely reported. Avalanches are being triggered from ridgelines, adjacent slopes, and even flat terrain below. Predicting where or when a remote trigger might occur is nearly impossible, making this an exceptionally hazardous situation.

This natural avalanche near Pemberton on Wednesday propagated 600 m wide across multiple features on the slope.

Adjusting Backcountry Travel Plans

Given the conditions, a more cautious approach is required. Areas that typically seem safe may now be dangerous, with no clear warning signs of instability. The best way to manage risk is by adjusting terrain choices and following smart travel habits:

• Stay aware of surroundings and overhead hazards – Avalanches can be triggered from below, not just from above.

• Give other groups plenty of space – Remote triggers mean avalanches can be set off from a distance.

• Avoid overhead exposure, especially during warming periods – Sun and rising temperatures will weaken the snowpack further.

• Select truly safe regrouping spots – Persistent slabs can break much farther back than expected, so stay well out of harm’s way.

• Use radios and maintain clear communication – Discuss safe zones and escape routes before heading into the terrain.

• Make conservative terrain choices – Stick to ridges, ribs, and well-treed areas when climbing. Keep slope angles under 30 degrees in open spaces.

• Be mindful of terrain traps – Gullies, cliffs, and depressions amplify the consequences of an avalanche.

The Bottom Line: It’s Not Worth the Gamble

This is not the time to push limits. The high stakes of an avalanche mean the best decision is to dial it back and prioritize safety over sending big lines. Shift the focus from “shredding the steepest terrain” to enjoying a great day out with friends in a safer zone.

The mountains will always be there, but taking unnecessary risks could mean missing future opportunities to enjoy them. Slow down, keep it simple, and choose terrain wisely.