Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 24th, 2014 8:42AM

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

Northwest Coastal.

We are interested in what you are seeing out there. Email us at forecaster@avalanche.ca.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Precipitation and winds are expected to ease off on Tuesday as freezing levels drop. Continued clearing and cooling is expected for Wednesday and Thursday with light northwesterly winds.

Avalanche Summary

Explosives triggered size 2 slabs in the northern part of the region on steep north-facing slopes at around 1500 m on Friday. We have had no reports from popular recreational spots in the region. Let us know what you are seeing 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 may 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

Recent heavy snowfall with fluctuating temperature and wind likely resulted in weak storm slabs.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Caution around convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

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