Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 7th, 2017 3:22PM

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

shorton, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Stick to shady terrain. Wet loose avalanches are most likely on sun-exposed slopes.

Summary

Confidence

High - The weather pattern is stable

Weather Forecast

FRIDAY: Alpine sun with valley clouds, moderate northwest wind, freezing level around 3000 m with inversions in the valleys.SATURDAY: Alpine sun with valley clouds, moderate west wind, freezing level around 2800 m with inversions in the valleys.SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, moderate west wind, freezing level rising to 3200 m.

Avalanche Summary

On Thursday, several small wet loose avalanches (size 1-1.5) were reported on steep south facing slopes. More wet loose activity can be expected with the sustained warming this week.

Snowpack Summary

Dramatic warming will cause widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the mornings. The warm weather has settled the snowpack and likely improved the bond to the 30-50 cm deep rain crust from late November. Some wind affected snow exists at higher elevations, and could potentially still be reactive above this crust.

Problems

Loose Wet

Sustained warm temperatures are weakening the surface snow, especially on steep slopes exposed to the sun.

Use extra caution on sunny slopes or if the snow is moist or wet.Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

Slab avalanches may be possible on slopes where the wind has blown the snow into a hard slab above a buried crust.

Choose well supported terrain without convexities.Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 8th, 2017 2:00PM