Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 16th, 2014–Dec 17th, 2014

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Northwest Inland.

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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.

Avalanche 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