Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 29th, 2024 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Storm Slabs.
Avalanche Canada,
Avalanche Canada
Don't let the recent snow lure you into consequential terrain.
Storm slabs might still be sensitive to triggering by riders.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Recent explosive control produced large slabs failing within the new storm snow (size 2.5) near Fernie.
On Saturday, a natural avalanche cycle occurred with storm slabs (size 2) and cornice failures on northerly alpine slopes near Fernie.
Skiers also produced several small loose dry avalanches (size 1.5) on steep sheltered treeline slopes.
If you head out in the backcountry, let us know what you are seeing by submitting a MIN report!
Snowpack Summary
New snow accumulations vary across the region. In localized areas, 30 to 50 cm of fresh snow is found. The southwest wind has redistributed this new snow, forming deeper deposits on leeward slopes at higher elevations.
Below the new snow, a thick melt-freeze crust exists below approximately 1500 m.
The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and stable.
Snow depths at treeline range from 140 to 220 cm.
Weather Summary
Sunday Night
Cloudy with up to 5 cm of new snow. 5 to 15 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
Monday
Cloudy with up to 5 cm of new snow. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.
Tuesday
Cloudy with up to 2 cm of new snow. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.
Wednesday
Cloudy with up to 2 cm of new snow. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Look for signs of instability: whumphing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches.
- Be careful with sluffing in steep terrain, especially above cliffs and terrain traps.
- Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
Problems
Storm Slabs
Recent snowfall and southwest winds have formed fresh storm slabs that will be deepest and most reactive in wind-loaded areas.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 30th, 2024 4:00PM
