Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 26th, 2012 9:21AM

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

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Due to limited field observations

Weather Forecast

Tuesday: Mostly clear skies / Moderate to strong northwesterly winds / Freezing level at 1300mWednesday: Increasing cloud throughout the day with light snowfall developing by the evening / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at 1400mThursday: Continued snowfall with heavier accumulations in the north of the region / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at 1400m

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported. If you and your friends have been out exploring and riding in the backcountry, and have some observations to share please send an email to forecaster@avalanche.ca.

Snowpack Summary

Last week's storm/wind slabs have most likely gained considerable strength with the break in the weather over the past few days. In some parts of the region an early November rain crust sits near the bottom of the snowpack. Where it exists, this crust has been seen from 1700 m to ridgetop on all aspects. Some tests have resulted in CTM-H ranges with sudden planar characteristics. I have also received reports of a SH layer buried up to 100 cm down. Tests on this layer are in the hard range with sudden planar characteristic. At this time the surface hoar may be specific to certain parts of the region. Be a detective. Dig down and see how the snowpack is shaping-up in your neck of the woods.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Although last week's snow has had time to gain strength, triggering storm/wind slabs may still be possible, particularly in steep, unsupported terrain.

If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, do it gradually as you gather information.>Avoid travelling in areas that have been reverse loaded by winds.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Persistent Slabs

There is a faceted crust that exists in the lower snowpack. Although no recent avalanches have been reported on this layer, triggering seems most likely on unsupported terrain at higher elevations or within start zones with smooth ground cover.

Choose well supported terrain without convexities.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 5

Valid until: Nov 27th, 2012 2:00PM