With winter fast approaching, ski resorts across British Columbia are gearing up for what looks to be an exciting season filled with fresh powder. But there’s a twist—forecasters are warning of potential avalanche risks lurking beneath the surface of the beautiful snow-covered slopes.
Following recent storms, which brought torrential rain and hurricane-force winds, Avalanche Canada is launching its forecast system for the province just as ski resorts open their doors. These weather patterns could create layers of snow at risk of sliding down mountains. The timing of this warning is rather poignant as skiers and snowboarders flock to the slopes anticipating adventure.
Michael Ballingall, senior vice-president of marketing and sales at Big White Ski Resort near Kelowna, highlighted the irony of the good snowfall after last year’s less-than-ideal conditions. “There’s going to be a lot of early season conditions out there at several resorts,” he stated, acknowledging the importance of caution as skiers prepare to embrace the trails.
On Wednesday evening, Big White reported nearly 100 cm of snow had accumulated, with 6 cm of it falling just within the last 24 hours. It’s noteworthy how this year’s conditions already rival what the resort typically sees around Christmas time—a month earlier than last year. “I’m sleeping much sounder now compared to the same point last year,” said Ballingall, as meteorologists predict favorable skiing conditions for the months to come.
But those glamorous powder days can come with hidden dangers. Brad Christie, public avalanche forecaster with Avalanche Canada, noted, “Across most of the province, we’re going to see some concerning avalanche hazards coming this weekend.” He emphasized the risks posed by the recent storms, which can produce dangerous snow conditions. Special mention was made about hazards including wind slabs and storm slabs—both potentially deadly snow layers which can collapse under pressure.
What exacerbates the situation is the delicate nature of snow layers early in the season. Ryan Buhler, forecaster and program manager at Avalanche Canada, explained, “These are the first snow layers building in the mountains. These will be the layers potentially responsible for avalanche activity later as more snow accumulates.” With snowfall providing the base layer, the potential for disaster increases if it’s not treated with care.
The tricky conditions have already led to reports of human-triggered avalanches within British Columbia, prompting forecasters to recommend taking “a conservative approach” when out on the mountains. It’s also reported on average, 11 people die each year due to avalanches across Canada, underlining the need for awareness and preparedness.
Educators like Sandra Riches, executive director of B.C. AdventureSmart, echoed the call for vigilance. She emphasized the three T’s of safety for adventurers: trip planning, training, and taking necessary gear to stay safe. “Every year, the British Columbia Search and Rescue Association responds to around 1,750 calls,” she mentioned, stressing how common it is to find oneself needing assistance.
Riches' insights are particularly relevant for those engaging not only in skiing but other winter activities like hunting and hiking. Recognizing the risks associated with snowy areas during winter months is pivotal for enthusiasts this season. She continued, “Avalanche Canada is continuously gathering user-generated reports about conditions, which can help with timely updates.” This collective approach not only boosts safety awareness but creates community involvement, empowering people to share their insights on conditions they encounter.
So what should adventurers keep at the forefront of their minds before heading out? Keeping updated with Avalanche Canada’s forecasts and weather conditions is indispensable. Simple actions, like taking note of the wind and sharing photos to depict conditions, can contribute to building on-the-ground knowledge necessary for safety. “Anyone can submit these. Just sending a photo can make all the difference,” Buhler remarked, encouraging all to partake.
While the idyllic setting of crisp white snow beckons adventure, it also serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictable demeanor. With resorts opening and fresh snow helping create optimal conditions for skiing, the advice from experts remains clear: always prioritize safety. Embracing the outdoors this winter should be met with not just excitement, but education on how to navigate the risks of avalanche hazards as well. This ski season could be one for the books—if, and only if, skiers and snowboarders are cautious on the slopes.
