An avalanche warning has been issued for a widespread region across southern BC and Alberta.

Avalanche Canada put out the notice Thursday, Feb. 10. It is effective immediately and runs through Sunday, Feb. 13. The warning applies to the following regions: Sea to Sky, South Coast Inland, Cariboos, North and South Columbias, Kootenay-Boundary, Purcells, and Jasper and Glacier National Parks.

For a map of the affected areas, go to

James Floyer, Forecasting Program Supervisor for Avalanche Canada, said the main concern is a critical weak layer buried about 60 cm below the snow surface throughout these regions.

B次元官网网址淭his layer is deep enough to produce large avalanches, yet shallow enough to be triggered by a human or machine,B次元官网网址� Floyer said in a statement. B次元官网网址淭he forecast of warm temperatures and sun will contribute to this problem this weekend.B次元官网网址�

The weak layer is most active at treeline elevation, where the forest opens up and gives way to the alpine and many good riding options exist. Backcountry users are encouraged to stick to simple terrain and to avoid grouping up in places threatened by avalanches from above.

B次元官网网址淯nder the current conditions, sparsely treed slopes do not provide protection from avalanches and could be even more dangerous due to the risk of being swept into trees,B次元官网网址� Floyer said. B次元官网网址淟ower angled slopes or densely forested areas, where the tree canopies are touching, will be better choices as long as they are not threatened by steep slopes from above.B次元官网网址�

Backcountry users should always check their regional avalanche forecasts at www.avalanche.ca. Everyone in a backcountry party needs the essential rescue gearB次元官网网址攖ransceiver, probe, and shovelB次元官网网址攁nd the knowledge to use it.