Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 9th, 2014 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs and Wind Slabs.
snow safety,
Avalanche Canada
A fairly strong storm system is forecast to arrive for the weekend. While improving the travel conditions, this storm will almost certainly push the avalanche danger to HIGH by Saturday evening. JBW
Summary
Weather Forecast
The stronger Pacific System is forecast to arrive mostly on Saturday with a potential for 20-30cm total over Western terrain before the snow ends Monday. Winds may push into the strong range briefly enhancing load.
Snowpack Summary
The winds have been relatively light for the last 24 hrs, and the forecasted push of Pacific moisture has yet to arrive, so the snowpack has not changed much. Windslabs over weak mid pack over very weak base of depth hoar and/or crust is the basic set up. The base is just waiting for some more load before another avalanche cycle begins.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanche activity has been noted in the last 24 hrs. Whumphing and collapsing on lower angled terrain indicates the potential for skier triggered slides.
Confidence
Problems
Deep Persistent Slabs
The weak base is the major problem layer in the snowpack. Avalanches will almost certainly involve the entire snowpack.
- Be aware of the potential for full depth avalanches due to deeply buried weak layers.
- Watch for whumpfing, hollow sounds, and shooting cracks.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wind Slabs
Recent windslabs near ridge crests may be triggered. Avalanches will likely step down to the weak base.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.
- Avoid freshly wind loaded features.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 10th, 2014 4:00PM
