BC Parks has issued a warning about winter conditions and avalanche hazards at the Garibaldi Provincial Park. Those going to the park should prepare for avalanche hazards at Garibaldi Lake, Cheakamus Lake, Elfin Lakes, Singing Pass, and Wedgemount Lake.
“Visitors should have appropriate equipment, experience, and training for winter travel. Please use extreme caution when entering the park and ensure your vehicle is properly equipped to handle driving on ice and snow,” says BC Parks.
On Monday, Government of BC appealed to people to be extremely cautious in the backcountry, as there is considerable avalanche risk forecast in many areas of the province. This has been a deadly season, with five people killed so far in avalanches in the province.
Avalanche Canada continues to monitor dangerous and highly unpredictable avalanche conditions, and encourages people to stay away from steep slopes and terrain. Avalanche conditions and forecasts can be seen here.
Ryan Buhler a forecast supervisor for Avalanche Canada, said backcountry users should always check the avalanche forecast and carry a transceiver, probe and shovel and be trained to use them. “We urge backcountry users to exercise caution and make conservative, low-consequence choices if they decide to travel in avalanche terrain.
During the past 10 years, approximately 73% of all Canadian avalanche fatalities have occurred in BC.