A warm storm moving through British Columbia this weekend is heightening avalanche risks in what is typically the deadliest time of year for avalanches in Canada. Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts precipitation, strong winds, and rising freezing levels across much of the province, leading to increased snowfall at higher elevations. Avalanche danger is expected to peak on Saturday in areas like the North Shore Mountains as freezing levels are projected to exceed 1,500 to 1,800 meters.
The combination of rain falling on existing snow in mountain regions can elevate avalanche risk, according to forecasters. New snow or rain on top of existing snow can add pressure to layers, making them more prone to collapse or sliding. Avalanche Canada warns that such conditions can create hazardous avalanches when new snow binds together, especially over weak layers beneath, causing large-scale avalanches.
The current risk is attributed to persistent slab conditions, where a layer of snow rests above weaker snow buried deeper in the snowpack. Forecasters note that these deeper weak layers, located between 50 to 150 centimeters deep, can trigger slab avalanches when they collapse under the weight of the snow above, resulting in a slide down the slope. Unlike other avalanche types, persistent slabs can be harder to predict as usual warning signs may not be visible due to their depth in the snowpack.
March historically marks the period with the highest number of avalanche fatalities in Canada, with 69 deaths recorded over the past two decades. The evolving snowpack complexity during the winter months, with multiple layers forming due to varying weather conditions, increases the avalanche risk. Since December 2025, five avalanche-related deaths have occurred in British Columbia, including incidents involving a snowmobiler and a professional snowboarder.
Avalanche Canada advises backcountry enthusiasts to stay updated with daily forecasts and opt for safer terrain options. When avalanche risk is considerable, it is recommended to stick to slopes under 30 degrees, and to avoid avalanche-prone areas entirely when the danger rating is high. Practicing caution and patience is crucial when venturing into avalanche-prone regions during this heightened risk period.
