Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 6th, 2018 3:55PM

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

mconlan, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Snow is forecasted for Saturday with associated strong winds. Be cautious of periods of rapid precipitation or wind loading, as avalanche activity may increase.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

SATURDAY: Cloudy with snowfall, accumulation 10 to 15 cm, moderate southerly winds, alpine temperature -2 C, freezing level 1600 m.SUNDAY: Mostly cloudy with early-morning snowfall, accumulation 5 to 10 cm, light westerly winds, alpine temperature -2 C, freezing level 1600 m.MONDAY: Partly cloudy, light southwesterly winds, alpine temperature -1 C, freezing level 1800 m.

Avalanche Summary

Small loose wet avalanches were naturally triggered on Thursday in steep alpine terrain.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 10 cm of storm snow overlies settled snow from last weekend. A 5 cm thick crust is found around 40 cm deep on all aspects and elevations, except above 1900 m on north slopes.The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Snowfall on Saturday with strong southerly winds will form new slabs. Observe for the bond of new snow with the old surface before committing into avalanche terrain.

Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind-loaded snow.Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.Minimize exposure during periods of heavy loading from snowfall and wind-transported snow.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Wet

Precipitation may fall as rain at low elevations. Watch out during your egress, particularly in steep and gullied terrain, where small avalanches can build and have severe consequences.

Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 7th, 2018 2:00PM