At Coast Mountain Trail Running, we strive to provide challenging and rewarding trail running experiences for all. Adverse weather is an unavoidable aspect (and some may say part of the fun) of producing these outdoor events in often remote, rugged terrain. While we aim to run our races in almost all weather, particularly dangerous conditions may require us to modify or cancel a race to keep our runners, volunteers, and staff safe.
First and foremost, all racers should be prepared for unexpected weather at any time. Our courses feature significant elevation changes and traverse several microclimates, so it is important that runners have the proper gear and knowledge to stay safe in adverse weather. In some cases, mandatory gear is required and will be listed on the individual race pages. We will do our best to monitor conditions and keep racers and volunteers aware of any potential dangers.
In the case of dangerous weather conditions (outlined below), the race management team reserves the right to modify or cancel any of our events at any time. Modifications can include altered start times, adjusted cutoffs, course revisions, etc. and will be applied on a case-by-case basis. We may also require runners to carry specific gear to ensure their safety. Any changes or cancellations will be communicated via email, our website, and our social media channels as soon as possible.
When conditions warrant, we will always strive to cancel a race before it begins. For the Squamish 50, we carry a refund protection benefit for extreme weather, including forest fire and air quality. If an event is cancelled due to forest fire/air quality concerns, we will file a claim, and if the protection benefit is approved, runners who are still registered to run the event will receive a full refund of their entry fees through Race Roster. Should the claim be denied for any reason, there would be no funds to issue a full refund to any participants.
If an event must be cancelled after it has already begun, there is no potential for a refund under any of these aforementioned benefits. A benefit claim, specific to our late-season races, can only be applied for if the race itself does not begin on race day.
Some racers may choose not to start an event due to weather-related health concerns (such as smoke sensitivity). We recommend that those who may need to withdraw from a race due to weather-related health concerns purchase personal refund insurance at registration. Please note that a physician’s note will be required to process the claim.
Wildfire Smoke
Poor air quality from wildfire smoke poses a significant risk to outdoor endurance events. We will use the BC government’s Air Quality Health Index to help guide our decisions.
| AQHI of 6 or below | Race will proceed as normal |
| AQHI of 7 and 8 | Race will continue with enhanced safety measures, including providing masks to runners and volunteers, and communicating with runners in advance with more information and forecasts. |
| AQHI of 9 or above | Race will be cancelled |
When the AQHI is forecast to move above or below these thresholds during the race, we will consult with local weather experts and review all available information ahead of time to help us determine whether to run, modify, or cancel at AQHI values different from those listed above. We will keep all runners and volunteers informed of our decisions ahead of the race start when the AQHI is forecast to reach 7 or above.
Heat
Unseasonably high temperatures, particularly when paired with high humidity, pose a risk of dehydration and heatstroke when not managed properly.
| Humidex: 40-45 | We will enhance our heat-management systems at aid stations (including ample water, electrolytes, and ice) and provide guidance to runners ahead of the start. |
| Humidex: 46+ (or air temperature of over 39c | We will modify or cancel the race and will communicate with runners and volunteers in advance. |
Warm Weather Hazards:
Wind & Fallen Trees
High winds can cause twigs, branches, and trees to fall onto the trail, posing a risk to our racers and volunteers. Government warnings are issued when sustained winds reach 70km/h and/or gusts reach 90km/h. We will run at sustained winds below 40km/h. At sustained winds between 40-70km/h, we will communicate with racers in advance and may modify the event based on the strength of the gusts and other compounding factors, such as recent rain/windstorm. If a wind warning is in effect, we will modify the start time or cancel the race as is appropriate based on the conditions and forecast.
Rain (Atmospheric Rivers)
Many of you will remember that the October 2021 SQ50 races operated safely during an atmospheric river. Since then, we have seen how similar storms can trigger landslides and broader regional impacts, and we no longer treat heavy rain as the only factor. If an atmospheric river is forecast, we will evaluate all associated risks, including landslide potential, before deciding whether to proceed. If no additional hazards are present, the race may continue. If landslide risk or storm severity is too high, we will not start the event.
The race directors reserve the right to grant aid station captains authority to delay participants if severe weather poses a safety hazard.
If a course needs to be closed, altered, or held, you will be notified by the next volunteer along your path of travel, generally at the next aid station.
Resources
Criteria for Public Weather Alerts:
Please direct any further questions to run@squamish50.com.
