A warm storm moving through British Columbia this weekend poses an increased risk of avalanches during a historically dangerous time of the year in Canada. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the system will bring precipitation, strong winds, and rising freezing levels across much of the province. Meteorologist Brian Proctor highlighted that this weather pattern is likely to lead to more snowfall in higher elevations over the weekend.
The avalanche danger is expected to peak on Saturday, particularly in parts of the South Coast like the North Shore Mountains, as freezing levels are predicted to rise above 1,500 to 1,800 meters. The combination of rain falling on existing snow in mountainous regions can heighten the risk of avalanches, according to forecasters.
Karina Bakker from Avalanche Canada explained that new snow can bond together, creating a cohesive mass that can trigger dangerous avalanches. The current risk is attributed to “persistent slab” conditions, where a layer of snow rests on weaker snow buried deeper in the snowpack, making avalanches harder to predict.
March historically records the highest number of avalanche fatalities in Canada, with 69 deaths in the past 20 years during this month. Bakker emphasized that March can be especially perilous due to the evolving snowpack complexity after winter weather cycles. In British Columbia, five avalanche-related deaths have occurred since December 2025, underscoring the importance of caution in the backcountry.
Avalanche Canada advises individuals venturing into the backcountry to stay updated on daily forecasts and opt for conservative terrain choices. Bakker stressed the importance of patience, recommending slopes under 30 degrees when avalanche danger is considerable and avoiding avalanche-prone areas entirely in high danger conditions.