Vancouver Island

Storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-affected terrain at upper elevations.

Danger will be LOW in areas that receive less than 15 cm of new snow.

No new avalanches have been reported.

Observations are currently very limited in the region. If you head into the backcountry, please consider submitting a MIN report.

Forecast snow and southerly wind may form fresh storm slabs at upper elevations overnight and into midday Tuesday. As freezing levels rise during the day, we may see rain falling on the new snow. Below the new snow, there is a thick crust at upper elevations. At lower elevations, expect a rain-soaked snowpack.

The snowpack is strong and well-bonded, but melting out quickly at lower elevations.

Monday Night

Cloudy with 5 to 20 cm of snow above 1000 m, possible rain below. Highest amounts forecast for the West Island. 30 to 40 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.

Tuesday

Cloudy with 5 to 20 cm snow above 1300 m, possible rain below. Highest amounts forecast for the West Island. 20 to 35 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 1 °C. Freezing level rising to 1400 m.

Wednesday

Mostly cloudy with 5 to 15 cm of snow, possible rain below 1300 m. 20 to 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level rising to 1300 m.

Thursday

Cloudy with 20 to 30 mm of heavy rain, possible snow above 1500 m. 50 to 60 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +4 °C. Freezing level rising to 1600 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Watch for rapidly changing conditions during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind, or rain.
• Closely monitor how the new snow is bonding to the crust.
• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Keep in mind that the high density of wet avalanches can make them destructive.