Forecasters warn of avalanches as B.C. ski resorts begin to open up [Video]

Many B.C. ski resorts are opening up this weekend thanks to fresh snow brought down by recent fall storms, but forecasters are warning of avalanche risks too. 

National forecaster Avalanche Canada says the torrential rain and hurricane-force winds that struck southwestern B.C. in the past two weeks could form snow layers that are susceptible to slides.

It’s launching its forecast system for the province on Friday and is urging backcountry enthusiasts to be cautious and prepare for potentially volatile conditions over the next few weeks. 

Still, the snowfall is good news for ski resorts and skiers after a warmer-than-usual winter last year offered little time on the mountains. 

Michael Ballingall, senior vice-president of marketing and sales at Big White Ski Resort near Kelowna, said the snow currently on the mountaintops is equivalent to what the resort saw just before Christmas in 2023, about a month later in the season.

The …