Special public avalanche warning issued for central Rocky Mountain backcountry

A special public avalanche warning has been issued for much of the backcountry in the central Rocky Mountains.

The warning applies to Banff, Yoho, Kootenay and Jasper national parks, Kananaskis Country, and nearby areas.

Avalanche Canada, Parks Canada, Alberta Parks and the province of British Columbia issued the alert on Thursday afternoon and say it will remain in effect until Monday.

Avalanche Canada says recent snow overtop a weak snowpack has caused multiple avalanches over the past two weeks. In separate incidents last week, two people died. 

"The snowpack is dangerous and unpredictable," Avalanche Canada said in a news release.

"Avalanches may also be triggered remotely, meaning they could be initiated from a distance. Warming, sun, and stormy weather will all increase the likelihood of triggering an avalanche."

Weak layers of snow are buried under up to 90 cm of storm snow, and more snow expected by the weekend will add to instability in the region, according to Stephen Holeczi, visitor safety specialist at Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay national parks.

"The complex snowpack in the central Rockies continues to demand caution, conservative decision-making and careful terrain choices," he said in a release.

Avalanche Canada, Parks Canada and Alberta Parks recommend backcountry travellers choose to traverse slopes less than 30 degrees; avoid sun-exposed slopes during warm or sunny conditions; and avoid terrain with exposure to overhead hazard, terrain traps or runout zones.

It is also recommended that those travelling through the backcountry carry an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel — and have the training to use them.

For more information about the avalanche risk in Alberta and B.C., visit Avalanche Canada's website.