Avalanche warnings in effect across much of B.C. - Action News
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British Columbia

Avalanche warnings in effect across much of B.C.

South Coast risk is high, even below the treeline, says Avalanche Canada.

South Coast risk is high, even below the treeline, says Avalanche Canada

Sunday's risky avalanche conditions are caused by a heavy layer of snow sitting on top of an ice slab. (Doug Kerr/CBC)

Avalanche Canada is asking British Columbians venturinginto 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 avalanchesare "likely."

Many parts of the southernregion 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."

North Shore Rescue leader Mike Danks said it's imperative that the public stay in-bounds on the mountains over the next few days. (Doug Kerr/CBC)

Those who do gointo 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," hesaid.

"We're not going to put people at risk."

Snowshoers at Seymour Mountain said they brought extra food, water, a blanket and an emergency beacon on their trip Sunday. (Doug Kerr/CBC)

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.