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Message is safety following fatal avalanches

After a relatively quiet winter in the backcountry, two recent fatal avalanches in British Columbia have snow experts worried.

By Matt Laurin

 

After a relatively quiet winter in the backcountry, two recent fatal avalanches in British Columbia have snow experts worried that people are not taking necessary precautions in the backcountry.

On Sunday, 38-year-old Jason Chad Westbury, of Revelstoke, was killed in an avalanche that began when he was testing conditions with two other skiers in Glacier National Park.

Snowmobiler Joel Conway, also 38, of Kimberley, was killed in a slide west of Kimberley the day before.

Outdoor enthusiasts in the Elk Valley are being encouraged to take extra precaution heading into the backcountry, as warm temperatures begin to take a toll on a snowpack that has been relatively stable for most of the winter.

“It’s been a very benign winter with relatively good stability, and low-to-moderate avalanche risk,” said Robin Siggers, mountain manager at Fernie Alpine Resort.

“Now we’re just getting into spring warming, and temperature fluctuations are pushing the danger higher than it’s been all winter. We don’t want people to have a false sense of security.”

Siggers said above-freezing temperatures, followed by heavy snowfall, have resulted in layers in the snowpack that are “not well bonded.”

And while new snow poses the threat for slides closer to the surface, the lower snowpack is also affected by warming temperatures.

Mark Besely, snow-safety director at Fernie Alpine Resort, said he was surprised at the current snow conditions.

“The upper snowpack is still fairly cool and holding on with some strength, but we were quite amazed at how the lower metre and a half was already presenting moist, almost spring-like snow,” Besely said.

What does that mean for the backcountry?

“When the weather does settle into the valley, I think people can expect a rather rapid deterioration in snow stability,” Besely said. “People need to be aware of that.”

But it’s not just the snowpack that is a cause for concern. The massive cornices created from a long winter also create a looming hazard for backcountry enthusiasts.

“Right now the cornices in the Lizard range and surrounding area are huge, and they act as very big triggers. In the heat of day, they tend to drop off so people also have to be aware of what is up above them,” Siggers added.

While the events from this past weekend emphasize the importance for increased awareness and education, the fact remains that more and more people are accessing the backcountry.

Avalanche-injuries and fatalities remain down for the year, but without any warning that trend could change. Those venturing into our extended backyard are reminded to take every measure to ensure a safe return home.

“I would urge people to investigate how the snowpack is actually deteriorating because of the warmer weather,” Besely said.

“Preparedness is equally important, which is making sure people have the right equipment and know how to use it.”

Still, he said he has been encouraged by the attitudes of local powder hounds.

“I have liked seeing the number of people that are going out there, equipped properly. They also aren’t afraid to ask questions, and that’s the most important thing.”