A warm storm moving through British Columbia this weekend is heightening avalanche risks during a historically dangerous time of year in Canada. Environment and Climate Change Canada predicts the system will usher in precipitation, strong winds, and higher freezing levels across much of the province. “This will likely lead to increased snowfall at higher elevations as the weekend progresses,” stated Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with the weather agency.
Avalanche hazards are set to peak on Saturday in areas of the South Coast, including the North Shore Mountains, with freezing levels expected to rise above 1,500 to 1,800 meters. The potential for problematic precipitation exists due to rain falling on existing snow in various mountain regions, a combination that can elevate avalanche risk, according to forecasters.
The current risk is attributed to “persistent slab” conditions, where a layer of snow sits atop weaker snow buried deeper within the snowpack. Slab avalanches occur when the underlying weaker layer collapses under the weight of the snow above, triggering a slide down the slope. The presence of deeper weak layers makes these avalanches challenging to predict, as traditional warning signs may not manifest.
March historically witnesses the highest number of avalanche fatalities in Canada, with 69 deaths occurring during the month over the past two decades. As snowpack complexity increases throughout the winter due to cold spells, storms, and warm periods, March becomes a particularly risky period for avalanches. In British Columbia, five avalanche-related deaths have occurred since December 2025, including incidents involving a snowmobiler near Kootenay Pass and a snowboarder near Joffre Lakes Park.
Avalanche Canada advises individuals venturing into the backcountry to consult daily forecasts and opt for conservative terrain choices. It is recommended to exercise patience, particularly by sticking to slopes under 30 degrees when the avalanche danger is considerable and avoiding avalanche-prone areas entirely during high-risk conditions.