Mountain Weather and Forecast Resources
Destination BC | Northern BC Tourism | Andy Cochrane photo
Forecast resources to check before you head out into the backcountry.
Before you head out on your next backcountry trip, it’s essential to know what the weather forecast and terrain conditions will be. These factors are all part of sound decision-making and ensuring a fun and safe outing. The weather should have a significant influence on how you will structure your day.
British Columbia is home to an array of weather conditions and range of temperatures throughout the year, so be prepared for unexpected weather, and have a backup plan in case your weather window starts to narrow.
To help you plan for your upcoming trips, we have compiled a list of helpful tips and resources on weather, mountain and road conditions. Check the weather reports before and during every adventure.
Here are three steps to take before you head out into the backcountry:
1) Before you head out
Before going on your adventure, you should read at least a couple of weather forecasts the night before. Check the weather charts, wind, terrain notes, and the following day’s weather. Weather forecasts are estimates, so sometimes bad weather moves in sooner than expected. Check all the days you plan to be outside, especially if going on multi-day trips.
2) Check before you start your trip
As you wake up, recheck the weather again before you leave or on the way to your destination. Check-in on what altitude you're going to be at? What’s the wind doing? What’s the precipitation? What’s the snowpack like? Double-check to see if anything has changed from your previous night’s forecast.
3) Assess the route
You need to keep checking in on the weather and look for clues in the terrain, especially if you are in the backcountry. This is where starting with your AST 1 comes in handy to learn the basics of checking the forecast and terrain you plan to be on. Keep an eye on the wind, visibility, weather, and temperature. Learn how to make decisions and adapt or decide on an exit route if things are not looking as good.
Weather & Forecast Resources
Here are few popular weather resources to consider:
Road Conditions
Know what the road conditions are before you go. We can’t control the unexpected, but if the weather is bad you can decide whether it’s worth making the trip or give yourself plenty of time for travel so there’s no need to rush.
