Avalanche Forecast

Poor - Due to the number of field observations

Warm and windy overnight with overcast skies and some light precipitation. Coastal areas should see up to 15 mm of precipitation on Monday with a freezing level around 1800 metres. Inland areas are likely to get less than 5 mm of precipitation as the system moves south along the coast and is not forecast to push inland. Stormy conditions are expected to continue in the Northwest.

Slab avalanches up to size 2 were reported in the Mt. Leach area on mostly north facing slopes. On Saturday, touchy wind slabs and storm slabs are likely, especially in areas that receive higher snowfall amounts. If the sun pokes out, solar radiation will be strong and deteriorate the upper snowpack. Watch overhead hazards like cornices, solar triggered loose and slab avalanches.

Recent storm snow has likely formed touchy storm slabs. Strong westerly winds have redistributed this new snow and has formed wind slabs on leeward slopes and behind terrain features. Solar aspects may have a sun crust from recent localized solar radiation. The lack of bond between the new wind slabs and storm slabs over the older snow surfaces buried on April 9 th (surface hoar, crusts and facets) are the primary concern. The March 25th surface hoar / crust layer is reportedly unreactive, however; it should remain on your radar as it may re-awaken with the new load of snow, wind and effects from warming. Large ripe cornices are also of concern and will be a problem with additional loading, especially when the sun and warm temperatures come back.