Avalanche Canada has issued an avalanche warning for North Rockies, northern section of the Cariboos and the northern tip of the North Columbia region.
The recent warm temperatures and new snow have resulted in a dense "slab" layer, which is resting on a very weak base. The combination has created an unstable snowpack, making it very easy for snowmobile riders to trigger large avalanches.
"It was unusually cold and dry in this region through December and early January, giving the area a very thin and weak snowpack," Avalanche Canada forecasting program supervisor James Floyer said.
"We have been anticipating this problem for a while and now it's here. This week's warmer temperatures and new snow have created a very dangerous situation for backcountry users."
"This problem can be managed through good terrain choices.
"Human-triggered avalanches in this region will be likely. With these conditions, it's vital that riders make conservative choices in their riding."
Everyone in a backcountry party needs to have an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. A two-day avalanche skills training level 1 course is the minimum training recommended for travelling in avalanche terrain.
For current conditions, check www.avalanche.ca.
