Avalanche Canada warns of highest risk in B.C. backcountry as storms move in

Avalanche Canada is urging anyone venturing into the backcountry to exercise extreme caution, as risk is elevated due to stormy weather.

Avalanche Canada is warning outdoor adventurers to use the highest degree of caution in the British Columbia backcountry as a series of atmospheric river systems arrive in the province.

The agency has raised its avalanche risk levels across the province, with the highest hazard areas reported in the coastal mountains around Whistler and Terrace, as well as in the Kootenay region and in the area northeast of Prince George.

Avalanche Canada says the risk of a dangerous slide is expected to increase throughout the day Wednesday as mixed precipitation arrives.

Forecasts for the Yoho and Kootenay national parks are calling for approximately 40 centimetres of new snow in the areas Wednesday.

The B.C. government has issued its own notice to backcountry enthusiasts, reminding them of the dangers present in the mountains.

“Having a plan, staying informed and having the proper equipment and training is essential to enjoying the mountains safely,” Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Minister Kelly Greene said in a statement.

“Before heading out, I urge everyone to check Avalanche Canada’s avalanche forecast and take steps to keep yourself and others safe.”

Much of the B.C. South Coast and parts of the southern Interior are under rainfall warnings as Environment Canada says up to 110 millimetres are expected in the eastern Fraser Valley and the Highway 3 corridor to Princeton.

Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island are also under rain warnings with up to 70 millimetres of precipitation expected Wednesday.

The province has issued a flood watch for the Fraser Valley area stretching into Metro Vancouver. Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Hope are all under the flood watch, and people living near water are asked to prepare emergency kits, move assets to higher ground and closely monitor the situation.

“Heavier rainfall south of the border may lead to flooding along the Nooksack River, with a potential for spilling into the Sumas River,” said a statement from the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.

“The highest river levels are currently expected around the Fraser Valley, including the Chilliwack River and surrounding areas.”

With files from The Canadian Press