Northeastern B.C. part of special avalanche warning

CHETWYND, B.C. — Mountainous regions of northeast B.C. are included in a recent special public avalanche warning (SPAW) for backcountry users.

The warning, issued by Avalanche Canada, Parks Canada, Kananaskis Country and the province, is in effect immediately until the end of Monday, May 1st.

Due to the transition from cool, wintry conditions to warmer temperatures in the mountains affecting snowpacks, avalanches will likely be large and may run to the bottom of valleys, according to Avalanche Canada.

The hazard increases with each day of warm air, and regions with persistent slab avalanche issues will be especially affected because avalanches may involve the full depth of the snowpack.

Avalanche Canada recommends backcountry users leave a wide margin for error during the warming period and stick to low-angle terrain, avoiding all overhead avalanche hazards.

For more information, avalanche forecasts can be checked at www.avalanche.ca.