Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 31st, 2024 4:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada mbender, Avalanche Canada

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We should see a gradual decrease in avalanche danger as cooling temperatures help to stabilize the snowpack.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

The natural avalanche cycle observed on the weekend and earlier in the week with the warming event has tapered. On Tuesday there were still a few natural wet loose avalanches to size 1.5 reported from steep alpine terrain.

Snowpack Summary

Rain and warm temperatures have created a moist or wet upper snowpack at all elevations. A weak surface crust may have formed overnight but will break down quickly throughout the day.

The middle of the snowpack is generally well bonded.

Near the bottom of the snowpack, there are a series of crusts and facets that are more prominent in shallow areas.

Weather Summary

Wednesday Night

Mainly cloudy with clear breaks. Alpine wind 20-50 km/h from the south and southwest. Treeline temperature 2 °C, freeing level 2700 m.

Thursday

Mix of sun and cloud. Alpine wind 15 to 30 km/h from the south. Treeline temperature 2 °C, freezing level 2500 m.

Friday

Mostly cloudy with isolated wet snow flurries or rain. Alpine wind southwest 10 to 25 km/h. Treeline temperature 0 °C, freezing level 2000 m.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy with scattered flurries. Alpine wind southwest 10 to 20 km/h. Treeline temperature -2 °C, freezing level 1500 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Keep in mind that wet avalanches can be destructive due to their high density.
  • The more the snow feels like a slurpy, the more likely loose wet avalanches will become.
  • Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.

Problems

Wet Slabs

An icon showing Wet Slabs

Wet slab avalanches may continue to occur if the upper snowpack is still saturated from rain and prolonged elevated freezing levels.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet

Wet loose avalanche activity can be expected from steep terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 1st, 2024 4:00PM