Choosing Terrain Carefully

During BC’s February Warm-Up

We have recently seen a significant shift in both weather and avalanche conditions across British Columbia.

A strong warming trend is developing as an atmospheric river brings mild air into the province. At the same time, a widespread layer of large surface hoar resting on a crust has recently been buried across most forecast regions. This is an especially concerning setup—persistent weak layer combined with rising temperatures—particularly for snowpacks in the BC Interior.

Recent avalanche activity confirms how reactive this layer is. Both natural and rider-triggered avalanches have been reported, with some catching backcountry users off guard. Remote triggering has also been observed, underscoring ongoing instability. Freezing levels climbed to around 2000 metres in many areas and are forecast to rise above 3000 metres in the south. With periods of sunshine mixed in, conditions are quickly taking on a spring-like feel.

The overall trend is clear: avalanche danger is increasing, and widespread natural avalanches are possible. Along the coast, more rain will fall on an already saturated snowpack. The greater concern remains in the Interior, where this weak layer has not yet been fully tested by sustained warmth. Mild conditions are expected to persist into the weekend, and dangerous avalanche conditions will likely continue across many regions.

Looking ahead, a strengthening ridge of high pressure will keep conditions mostly dry while maintaining well-above-average temperatures. For many areas, it will feel more like early spring than mid-winter. There is growing confidence that this ridge will begin to break down next week, allowing a return to a more typical weather pattern—and likely another shift in avalanche conditions.

In the meantime, staying informed is critical. Avalanche Canada’s forecasts are a great place to start, and tools like Windy, YR.no, and DriveBC can help round out the picture. If you’re heading into the backcountry, take the time to understand the current avalanche ratings and let them shape your terrain choices for the day. Be willing to dial things back as conditions change. Good communication within your group, thoughtful decision-making, and a healthy respect for the terrain go a long way during periods like this.

Brad Harrison, Colwest Alpine Adventures
Professional Member, Canadian Avalanche Association
Executive Director, Backcountry Lodges of BC Association

Be sure to check out our latest podcast, featuring Jan Neuspiel — longtime mountain guide, former owner of Island Alpine Guides on Vancouver Island, and the newly minted Program Coordinator for the Mountain Professional Critical Incident Stress Management Team.

Jan’s career spans decades in the mountains, from trekking and mountaineering in Nepal to heli-ski operations in the Indian Himalaya, leadership roles with Bella Coola Helisports, and co-founding the Vancouver Island Avalanche Centre Society. He’s also a peer responder with the Mountain Professional CISM Team and a recognized leader in mountain safety, with awards from both HeliCat Canada and the ACMG.

His personal adventures include a ski-mountaineering circumnavigation of Denali, a solo ascent of Pumori, and traverses of the Wrangell–St. Elias Range, and a single-day ascent of Mount Asgard.

If you crave adventure, this episode is a must-listen! Hit play now!

Get a Free BLBCA Sticker

Want to show your support for the BLBCA on your next winter backcountry adventure?

Add our sticker to your skis, boards, helmets & gear. Get yours today! 

Enter your info, and we’ll mail you a free sticker!

Share your backcountry adventures, tag photos with:
#myBCbackcountry | #exploreBC

Our members operate in many First Nation’s traditional and unceded territories, including the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, Syilx and Stoney Nakoda Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in these territories and recognize that these are special places.