Photo: Contributed

A special public avalanche warning has been issued for backcountry users as a storm moving through on Friday could cause deadly avalanches.

The warning is for B.C.’s South Coast region and Vancouver Island.

“We do not expect the snow to stabilize after the storm, which is unusual for the coastal mountains,” explains James Floyer, warning program supervisor for Avalanche Canada.

A weak layer in the snowpack is buried about 50 centimetres deep and the next storm forecast for Friday will bring another 10 to 15 cm of snow.

“Human-triggered avalanches will be likely over the weekend, especially on steeper terrain. The clearing skies and fresh snow will be very inviting but we are urging backcountry users to be extra cautious during this period,” said Floyer.

The weak layer will remain fairly easy to trigger and with the added snow on top, the resulting avalanches could be deadly.

A test was conducted on Wednesday that clearly demonstrates how easy it is to trigger the weak layer.

There's a Special Public Avalanche Warning for the South Coast & Vancouver Island. This video shows how touchy the weak layer in these areas is. Make sure you’ve read the warning carefully if you’re planning a backcountry trip in these areas

Read more 👉https://t.co/C1M4g60EDQ pic.twitter.com/KP3Rz3A72Q

— Avalanche Canada (@avalancheca) February 21, 2019