Extreme Avalanche Danger in North Shore Mountains

As heavy rain sweeps across British Columbia’s South Coast, experts are sounding the alarm about an unprecedented avalanche danger in the North Shore mountains. Avalanche Canada has issued an "extreme" danger rating for popular ski destinations including Seymour, Grouse, and Cypress mountains, signaling the highest level of concern for outdoor enthusiasts.

Travel Warnings and Safety Precautions

With the ongoing rainstorm expected to last several days, Avalanche Canada is advising that “travel in avalanche terrain in the alpine and treeline should be avoided during the storm.” Such caution is crucial as conditions can become rapidly life-threatening.

Growing Risks of Storm Slabs

The organization indicates that the size of storm slabs—layers of snow that can slide down the mountain—will likely increase throughout the day. This includes newly formed reactive storm slabs anticipated to develop from Wednesday night into Thursday. The risk is exacerbated by the presence of older, deeper slabs created earlier in the week, which could trigger incredibly large avalanches.

Awareness for Backcountry Adventurers

This escalating situation calls for heightened awareness among backcountry adventurers and skiers. The combination of heavy rainfall and wind accelerates the instability of snow packs, making it imperative for explorers and thrill-seekers to heed these warnings.

Consider Alternative Activities

Stay safe and consider alternative activities or locations while the storm rages on. As conditions evolve, monitoring updates from Avalanche Canada and local weather alerts can provide crucial information to ensure your safety in the wilderness.