Avalanche risk rated ‘considerable’ to ‘moderate’ following snowfall warning

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — The risk of an avalanche in areas of the South Peace are currently rated ‘considerable’ to ‘moderate.’

According to Avalanche Canada, the risk of avalanches at the Alpine level is ‘considerable’, while risks at and below the treeline are considered ‘moderate’ on Wednesday, March 25th.

Avalanche risks are classified as ‘considerable’ when dangerous conditions are present. During ‘considerable’ risks, careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding and conservative decision-making are essential, according to Avalanche Canada.

‘Moderate’ risks mean there are heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain. During these conditions, natural avalanches are unlikely but human-triggered incidents are possible. 

More information on the different classifications can be found on the Avalanche Canada website.

‘Considerable’ risks for the Alpine are expected to drop to ‘moderate’ on Thursday as snowfall eases up in the region. 

The ‘considerable’ risks come after a ‘yellow’ level winter storm warning was issued for the Peace region

Avalanche Canada warns that the risk is likely to jump back up to ‘considerable’ on Friday. 

Travellers who may be heading into the backcountry are warned to avoid freshly wind-loaded terrain features, closely monitor new snow piling up on old snow, and exercise extra caution around cornices, as they can trigger snowfall which poses an avalanche risk. 

Avalanche Canada predicts Thursday will see a mix of sun and clouds, with only one to two centimetres of snow and 20 km/h wind at the ridgetop. Friday is expected to be mostly cloudy, with five to 15 centimetres of snow. Winds at the southwest ridgetop could reach up to 50 km/h, with the treeline temperature dropping to -7 C. 

Larry Neufeld, MLA for Peace River South, warns travellers to be cautious and plan ahead in a Facebook post. 

“If you’re heading into the backcountry, please take a moment to check conditions,” Neufeld said on Facebook. “Plan your route carefully, and make sure you have the proper gear.”

More information on avalanche risks can be found on the Avalanche Canada website.