Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 23rd, 2014 7:39AM

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

pgoddard, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

Stormy conditions may lead to rapid changes in the snowpack. We have limited observations from the field. Send us yours at forecaster@avalanche.ca.

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Monday: A moist system is due to arrive late in the day, bringing light to moderate precipitation. Freezing level climbing to around 2000 m. Moderate to strong SW winds.Tuesday/Wednesday: A second vigorous frontal system is expected to bring moderate to heavy precipitation with the freezing level lowering to around 1500 m. Moderate to strong W to SW winds. There is uncertainty around the track and intensity of this system. It looks like it could hit the Coquihalla area more intensely than the Duffey at this stage. Stay tuned for updates.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches have been reported. Please let us know what you're seeing out there at forecaster@avalanche.ca.

Snowpack Summary

As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. Early reports suggest there's enough snow for avalanches at alpine and some treeline elevations. Recent snow is likely to have been redistributed into slabs on lee slopes at alpine elevations. This snow may overlie a weak old snow surface (surface hoar, facets and/or a crust) which developed during November's dry spell. Check the bond of the snowpack at this level and take a cautious approach as new snow builds deeper above this layer.

Problems

Storm Slabs

New snow is building up over a potentially weak old snow surface. Strong winds and rising temperatures could complicate the picture, leading to slab conditions on a variety of slopes. Be alert to changes in snow depth and consistency.

Early season hazards such as rocks, trees and stumps are still visible.>Caution around convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Nov 24th, 2014 2:00PM