A special avalanche warning has been issued for the Central Rockies, in effect until Monday, due to dangerous conditions.
Avalanche Canada issued the alert on Thursday, covering Banff, Kananaskis Country, Yoho, Kootenay, as well as Jasper National Parks. The warning extends to adjacent areas as well.
"Recent storm snow sits atop a weak snowpack structure, leading to numerous large avalanches over the past two weeks," the agency stated. Avalanches have been widely triggered, even in forested areas, and have involved the entire snowpack depth.
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The warning follows several serious avalanche incidents, including two fatal ones. Though natural avalanche activity is decreasing, the snowpack remains highly susceptible to human-triggered slides. Remote-triggered avalanches, where slides can be initiated from a distance, are also a concern.
Warming temperatures, sun, and stormy weather are expected to further heighten the risk. Up to 90 cm of storm snow, with an additional 15 cm expected by the weekend, is contributing to the dangerous conditions.
Avalanche Canada advises anyone heading into the backcountry to stay in low-angle terrain, avoid overhead hazards, and check forecasts before heading out. They should also ensure they have proper rescue equipment and know how to use it.