Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 21st, 2017 4:09PM

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

shorton, Avalanche Canada

Lizard-Flathead.

Assess start zones carefully for signs of storm or wind slabs at higher elevations.

Summary

Confidence

High - Due to the number and quality of field observations

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: Cloudy with isolated flurries, light winds, alpine temperatures around -5.MONDAY: Cloudy with isolated flurries, light winds, alpine temperatures around -7.TUESDAY: Cloudy with sunny periods, light winds, alpine temperatures around -10.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported on Saturday. On Friday, explosive control produced several size 1.5-2.5 storm slabs on north and east alpine slopes. Human triggering avalanches in the storm snow may remain possible at higher elevations.

Snowpack Summary

A warm wet storm delivered 20-40 cm of heavy snow on Thursday with freezing levels up to 1600 m. Storm slabs exist at higher elevations, particularly on wind-loaded northeast slopes. Crusts near the surface can be found on solar aspects at high elevations and on all aspects below 1600 m. The lower snowpack appears to be well settled. There have been isolated reports of surface hoar layers that formed in early January that may still exist about 40 cm deep in sheltered areas.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Recent storm snow has settled into slabs that are likely most reactive at higher elevations and on wind-loaded features.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.The new snow will requires several days to settle and stabilize.Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Jan 22nd, 2017 2:00PM