Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 5th, 2024 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs and Wind Slabs.
Avalanche Canada,
Avalanche Canada
Wind slabs may be reactive in leeward terrain features in the alpine.
Concern remains for a weak layer near the base of the snowpack in shallow areas with facets over a crust.
Summary
Confidence
Low
Avalanche Summary
On Tuesday, a small (size 1.5) natural deep persistent avalanche occurred near Invermere. It was on a northeast aspect in the alpine.
Snowpack Summary
Treeline snow depths are generally 50 to 70 cm, with deeper wind-loaded pockets in the alpine. New surface hoar is growing on the surface in sheltered terrain. Wind-affected surfaces are expected in exposed terrain at higher elevations. A new sun crust is likely forming on steep, sun-exposed slopes.
In the Invermere area, weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack has caused several small but notable deep persistent slab avalanches.
Early-season hazards are present at all elevations. Stay alert and assess terrain carefully.
Weather Summary
Thursday Night
Mostly clear. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Friday
A mix of sun and cloud. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Saturday
Cloudy with up to 15 cm of snow. 30 to 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Sunday
A mix of sun and cloud with up to 2 cm of snow. 20 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Be careful with wind-loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and rollovers.
- Be mindful that deep instabilities are still present in the snowpack.
- Triggering deep layers is more likely if the snow surface didn't freeze overnight.
Problems
Deep Persistent Slabs
Avalanches on weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack are becoming less likely, but remain possible on steep, smooth slopes.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wind Slabs
Lingering concerns remain for wind slabs in leeward features resulting from recent westerly wind.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 6th, 2024 4:00PM
