Those traipsing out to the backcountry for Family Day are asked to do so with caution.
According to the Canadian Avalanche Centre, snowpack conditions in some areas of the province are starting to exhibit signs of instability that may catch riders unaware.
The main regions of concern are the North and South Columbias, the Purcells and the Kootenay-Boundary region.
"With the forecast calling for sunny skies this long weekend, we're concerned that people will be hitting the big, steep slopes they've been riding without consequences so far," said Karl Klassen, Public Avalanche Warning Service manager for the Centre. "Avalanches are more likely this weekend than they have been for the past while and if the sun comes out and temperatures rise, the danger will rise with it."
On average, 14 people are killed annually in Canadian avalanches, with one fatal incident already logged this winter.
"So far, it's been a pretty remarkable season," said Klassen. "It's our hope that we can all continue to enjoy the winter backcountry and continue to come home safely."
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