Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 10th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
lbaker,
Avalanche Canada
Identify features of concern as you move through the terrain by continually investigating the bond between storm snow and the underlying crust.
Summary
Confidence
Low
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported in this region. However, observations have been minimal throughout the early winter.
Backcountry users should expect to see evidence of a natural wind slab avalanche cycle, likely size 1 to 1.5, at higher elevations in steep unsupported terrain.
If you're heading out in the backcountry, please consider sharing any observations on the Mountain Information Network
Snowpack Summary
In the alpine, 20 to 30 cm of wind affected snow overlies a series of crusts and facets.
At treeline and below 5 to 15 cm of recent snow overlies a layer of surface hoar that sits atop a widespread crust. The crust is supportive at lower elevations, while it becomes thinner and breakable around treeline elevations.
Overall, the snow depth remains relatively shallow, creating challenging travel conditions and numerous hazards present at or just below the snow surface across all elevations.
Weather Summary
Sunday Night
Cloudy with no precipitation, northeast alpine winds 10 km/h, treeline temperature -4 °C, freezing level 1300 m.
Monday
Mix of sun and cloud with no precipitation, west alpine winds 10 to 20 km/h, treeline temperature -4 °C, freezing level 1500 m.
Tuesday
Mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries, southwest alpine winds 20 to 40 km/h, treeline temperature -4 °C, freezing level 1000 m.
Wednesday
Mainly cloudy with isolated flurries, trace accumulation, southwest alpine winds 40 to 60 km/h, treeline temperature -1 °C, freezing levels rise to 1500 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
- Look for signs of instability: whumphing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches.
- Early season avalanches at any elevation have the potential to be particularly dangerous due to obstacles that are exposed or just below the surface.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Expect to find pockets of cohesive slab in wind-loaded areas. Recent snow may be sitting on a weak layer of surface hoar and/or a crust making it possible to human trigger.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 11th, 2023 4:00PM
