A Special Public Avalanche Warning has been issued for recreational backcountry users across parts of western Canada. (Photo 5645485 © Anna Dudko | Dreamstime.com)

By Justin Goulet

Avalanche Warning

Special Avalanche Warning issued for parts of western Canada

Apr 27, 2023 | 4:11 PM

REVELSTOKE, BC – A Special Public Avalanche Warning (SPAW) has been issued for recreational backcountry users across parts of western Canada.

The warning was issued by Avalanche Canada, in partnership with Parks Canada, Kananaskis Country, and the province of British Columbia.

Avalanche Canada said a dramatic increase in temperatures is expected to destabilize the snowpack, which would result in dangerous, destructive avalanches. The agency said the SPAW is in effect until the end of the day Monday, May 1, 2023. A map of the impacted region is available online.

Backcountry users, including hikers and scramblers, as well as anyone recreating in avalanche terrain, are advised to leave a wide margin for error during the warmer period. Officials ask that users stick to simple, low-angle terrain and avoid all overhead avalanche hazards.

Avalanche Canada said a sudden transition from cool, wintry conditions in the alpine to warmer weather creates dangerous avalanche conditions. Officials note the effect of the warm temperatures on the existing snowpack structure means the avalanches will likely be very large and may run to valley bottoms. Regions with persistent or deep persistent slab avalanche problems will be especially problematic, the agency said, with avalanches potentially involving the full depth of the snowpack.

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Backcountry users can see updated avalanche information through the Avalanche Canada website.