Avalanche Forecast

Issued: May 5th, 2023 4:00PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Cornices and Loose Wet.

mconlan, Avalanche Canada

South Coast, Vancouver Island, North Shore, Sasquatch, Tetrahedron, Powell River, East Island, North Island, South Island, West Island.

Continue to limit exposure to cornices and steep slopes during the heat of the day.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

Expect wet loose avalanches and cornice failures during periods of rain or strong sun. Avoiding steep slopes when the snow feels sloppy and avoiding cornice exposure are good travel habits. Avalanches could be large and travel far, meaning you should limit exposure to overhead avalanche terrain.

Snowpack Summary

The snow surface is likely moist to mountain tops during the day, which may freeze overnight. The remainder of the snowpack is strong and well-bonded.

Cornices are large and looming at this time of year.

Weather Summary

Saturday, Sunday, and Monday have a freezing level between 1600 m and 1900 m with periods of light rain or snow at the mountain tops. Saturday is cloudy and Sunday and Monday are a mix of sun and cloud.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

Avoid exposure to overhead avalanche terrain, avalanches may run surprisingly far.
Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
Avoid steep slopes when air temperatures are warm, it is raining, or solar radiation is strong.
Avoid terrain traps such as gullies and cliffs where the consequence of any avalanche could be serious.

Problems

Cornices

Cornices are large at this time of year and will become more prone to fail as they warm up with spring weather. Stay well back from them when on ridgelines and limit your exposure when travelling on slopes below them, as their release is unpredictable. A flat spot on a ridgeline could actually be an overhanging cornice.

Aspects: North, North East, East, West, North West.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Loose Wet

Wet loose avalanche activity is possible during the heat of the day or when it is raining. Limit your exposure to steep terrain when the snow feels sloppy.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1.5 - 2.5

Valid until: May 6th, 2023 4:00PM