British Mountain Guides (BMG) and BASI (British Association of Snowsport Instructors) are jointly issuing a press release in order to remind snowsport enthusiasts of the current high avalanche risk across the European Alps.
"Over the course of this winter dangerous weak layers within the snowpack have developed. These are now being overloaded by a combination of changes in the weather and recent snow falls. For backcountry snowsport enthusiasts this means that large and potentially very deep avalanches can be triggered by the weight of only a single skier or boarder," the joint statement states.
"Before venturing beyond the patrolled slopes it is essential that all participants are aware of the local avalanche bulletin, are properly equipped and trained in the rescue of their companions and are capable of skiing or boarding at an appropriate skill level in order to travel safely and enjoy the winter backcountry," the statement concludes.
For more information on conditions in Europe please visit:
European Avalanche Warning Service EAWS: http://www.avalanches.org/eaws/en/main.php
Switzerland: http://www.slf.ch/english_EN
France: http://www.meteofrance.com/previsions-meteo-montagne/bulletin-avalanches/!
Austria: https://lawine.tirol.gv.at/home/uebersicht/
Mobile Apps
White Risk: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ch.slf.whiteriskmobile
Snowsafe: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.roomfour0four.android.avalanche
British Mountain Guides and British Association of Snowsport Instructors
http://www.bmg.org.uk
http://www.basi.org.uk