A warm storm moving through British Columbia this weekend is heightening avalanche risks in what is historically the deadliest time of year for avalanches in Canada. Environment and Climate Change Canada predicts that this system will bring precipitation, strong winds, and increasing freezing levels across much of the province. Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with the weather agency, explains that this weather pattern will likely result in higher elevations receiving more snowfall throughout the weekend.
The avalanche danger is anticipated to peak on Saturday in parts of the South Coast, including the North Shore Mountains, as freezing levels are forecasted to rise over 1,500 to 1,800 meters. The combination of rain falling on existing snow in mountain areas can elevate the risk of avalanches. According to Karina Bakker, a forecaster with Avalanche Canada, storms that introduce new snow or rain onto existing snow layers can enhance pressure on those layers, making them more susceptible to collapsing or sliding.
The current risk is attributed to “persistent slab” conditions, where a layer of snow sits atop weaker snow buried deeper in the snowpack. Slab avalanches occur when the weaker layer collapses under the weight of the snow above, triggering a slide down the slope. These deeper weak layers can make avalanches harder to predict as the typical warning signs may not manifest, Bakker explains.
March historically records the highest number of avalanche fatalities in Canada, with 69 deaths occurring during this month over the past two decades. The evolving snowpack complexity over the winter months contributes to the heightened risk in March, with multiple layers forming due to varying weather conditions.
Since December 2025, five individuals have died in avalanches in British Columbia, including a 23-year-old snowmobiler near Kootenay Pass in late February and a professional snowboarder near Joffre Lakes Park shortly before. Forecasters emphasize the importance of checking daily avalanche forecasts and opting for conservative terrain choices when venturing into the backcountry to mitigate risks. Patience and caution are advised, with recommended slope angles and terrain choices based on the current avalanche danger ratings.
