Prince George, B.C.- Avalanche Canada is issuing a Special Public Avalanche Warning for recreational backcountry users from Friday January 22 to Monday January 25.

The warning applies to the NW Coast and South Coast Inland, as well as the following central interior mountain regions—Cariboos, North Columbia, South Columbia, Purcells, Kootenay-Boundary and the Lizard/Flathead region. Glacier National Park is also issuing a public warning today.

Snow storms across the province have buried a weak layer that is particularly prevalent at lower elevations. However, due to the amount of new snow, all elevation bands are potentially hazardous, explains James Floyer, Avalanche Canada’s Forecasting Program Supervisor.

“We’ve had a relatively stable snowpack up to this point but things have changed now,” says Floyer. “We urge all recreational backcountry users to recognize this shift and to exercise more caution. Staying safe in the backcountry this weekend requires selecting simple, low-angled terrain, even when you’re at lower elevations below treeline.”

For up-to-date information check the daily forecasts at www.avalanche.ca