Avalanche Warning issued for Rockies, caution urged

A special avalanche warning has been declared for the Rocky Mountains west of Calgary, effective until March 24, following two fatal avalanches that occurred on March 14. Avalanche Canada reports that recent storm snow has created an unstable snowpack, increasing the risk of human-triggered avalanches in areas such as Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. Meanwhile, Colorado has seen severe winter weather, with blizzard and snow squall warnings issued across El Paso County and the I-25 corridor, warning of dangerous travel conditions due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. The National Weather Service has advised against non-essential travel as conditions may lead to whiteouts and slick roads. As these weather events unfold, authorities urge caution and preparedness in both regions, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the snowpack and squall conditions.