Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 16th, 2014 8:02AM

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

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Inland.

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Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Wednesday will see a mix of sun and cloud with generally light southwest winds. By Thursday afternoon a stronger weather system will impact the region bringing more steady snowfall and strong southwest winds. Freezing levels will hover around valley bottom on Wednesday rising to 800 metres for the rest of the forecast period.

Avalanche Summary

There are no new avalanche reports from the region.

Snowpack Summary

A dusting of new snow overlies weak surface hoar which is reported to exist up to at least treeline elevation. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline.Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Recent observations suggest wind slabs may still be reactive to the weight of a skier. Watch for triggering in gullies and in the lee of ridges crests.

Use ridges or ribs to avoid wind loaded and cross loaded slopes.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

Persistent weaknesses buried in November remain a concern for professionals in the region. Watch for shallow snowpack trigger points on steep, unsupported slopes.

Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>Be aware of thin areas that may propogate to deeper instabilites.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Dec 17th, 2014 2:00PM