Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 24th, 2014 8:15AM

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

ccampbell, 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

Tuesday/Wednesday: Another vigorous frontal system is expected to bring moderate to heavy precipitation with freezing levels starting around 1500 m but quickly rising to 2000 m, and strong westerly winds. The Coquihalla Pass area is expected to get 5-10cm of snow followed by 25-30mm of rain. Further north should be drier. Continued wet and warm weather is expected for Thursday.

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.

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

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Nov 25th, 2014 2:00PM