Avalanche Forecast

THURSDAY NIGHT: Increasing cloud. Light to moderate southerly winds. Freezing levels drop to 1000 m.

FRIDAY: Mostly cloudy with isolated flurries. Moderate southerly winds and freezing levels around 1500 m.

SATURDAY: Mostly cloudy. Up to 3 cm overnight, and 5 cm possible over the day, freezing levels 1500-2000 m. Moderate to strong southerly winds. 

SUNDAY: Mostly cloudy, up to 10 cm of snow. Freezing levels 1500-2000 m. Moderate southwest winds. 

On Wednesday a natural cycle of wet avalanche activity was reported up to size 2.5 around the Coquihalla highway. Activity mainly occurred from steep terrain features, affected by the warmer temperatures, rain and sun. 

A naturally triggered size 2 slab avalanche was reported on a northwest facing slope at treeline, involving the buried weak layers from mid March. 

As temperatures drop, a melt freeze crust on all aspects will extend to treeline, and may extend into the alpine in some terrain. Expect moist snow at low elevations below the freezing line, and on south facing slopes as the sun comes out. Dry snow can be found at alpine elevations, likely redistributed by strong southerly winds into wind loaded features on north/east facing slopes. 

A melt-freeze crust from mid March exists down 30 to 60 cm on all aspects below 1500 m. The mid and lower snowpack is thought to be well settled and strong at this time. 

• Minimize exposure to sun-exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
• When a thick, melt-freeze surface crust is present, avalanche activity is unlikely.
• Avoid freshly wind loaded features, especially near ridge crests, roll-overs and in steep terrain.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.