Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 2nd, 2013 9:02AM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Cornices.

mpeter, Avalanche Canada

Cariboos.

Be aware of the potential for an above freezing layer on Thursday. This warm air (combined with solar warming) may destabilize the surface snow and cornices.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

Thursday: Expect lots of valley cloud with temperatures reaching -6, moderate southwesterly winds and a chance of isolated flurries. An above freezing layer may persist giving temperatures up to 3 between 2000-2500m.Friday: Mostly cloudy with temperatures around -9. Winds turn northerly and remain moderate with a slight chance of flurries.Saturday:Continued cloudy with temperatures reaching -8 under light southerly winds. Building flurries are possible.

Avalanche Summary

Loose snow avalanches continue to be reported from steep terrain. This problem may be compounded by above freezing temperatures or solar radiation on South and West facing terrain.

Snowpack Summary

Minor surface hoar growth continues in areas that are sheltered from the wind. Near surface facetting is maintaining dry and loose surface snow. Previous moderate to strong winds have built windslabs in lee locations in the alpine and at treeline. The midpack is strong and well settled while the deep weaknesses remain dormant.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Changing wind directions may build windslabs in unusual locations.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Cornices

Above freezing temperatures or solar radiation may make cornices weaker.

Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.>

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Jan 3rd, 2013 2:00PM