Avalanche warnings in effect across much of B.C.
South Coast risk is high, even below the treeline, says Avalanche Canada
Avalanche Canada is asking British Columbians venturing into the mountains this weekend to use common sense as slide warnings are in place across much of the province.
Avalanche risk is "considerable" across the Kootenay, Cariboo, Northwest, Sea to Sky and Rockie regions. On the South Coast, conditions are said to be "very touchy" and human-triggered avalanches are "likely."
Many parts of the southern region saw more than 20 centimetres of snow between Friday and Saturday.
North Shore Rescue leader Mike Danks said it's imperative people stay out of avalanche-prone terrain over the next few days.
"If you are skiing on the local mountains or boarding, we urge you stay in bounds. Once you cross that threshold [out of bounds], it's no longer controlled terrain."
Those who do go into the backcountry should choose their route carefully, carry a full avalanche-preparedness kit, and leave a trail plan.
Danks stressed that quick rescue might not be a guarantee while the avalanche risk is so high.
"If we do get a call in the backcountry and it's in avalanche terrain — which it most likely will be — we're going to think twice about sending our members into those areas," he said.
"We're not going to put people at risk."
Snowshoers at Seymour Provincial Park said they were going to stick to the "nice and easy" trails.
"It is dangerous. You have to watch out. We took extra precautions, brought extra supplies," said snowshoer Sunny Shaw.
New snowfall warnings were in place for much the South Coast Sunday afternoon.