Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 7th, 2019 3:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

Avalanche Canada ghelgeson, Avalanche Canada

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Low hazard doesn't mean no hazard. Watch for isolated pockets of wind slab in the alpine.

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Summary

Confidence

Low - Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations.

Weather Forecast

We’re entering a rather quiet period with no significant snow expected until at least the middle of next week.

SATURDAY NIGHT: Freezing level at valley bottom, light north wind, no significant precipitation expected.

SUNDAY: A few clouds, freezing level at valley bottom, moderate northwest wind, no significant precipitation expected.

MONDAY: A few clouds, freezing level at valley bottom, potential for an inversion setup with air near 0 C in the alpine, light southerly wind, no significant precipitation expected.

TUESDAY: Broken cloud cover, freezing level at valley bottom, light to moderate south/southwest wind, no significant precipitation expected.

Avalanche Summary

There have been no recent reports of avalanches in the region; however, there is very little information available at this time. If you get out into the mountains, let us know what you see by submitting to the Mountain Information Network!

Snowpack Summary

Snowfall was sporadic or failed to materialize with the last storm system. Over the last week areas further north in the region may have accumulated 5-15 cm of snow. In these areas, southwesterly winds likely transported the available snow into wind slabs on lee features in the alpine. In isolated areas, these small slabs are likely sitting on a mix of sugary faceted snow, and feathery surface hoar crystals, and hard wind-affected snow that may be reactive to human triggering.

Snowpack depths are 50-100 cm in alpine areas around Smithers, with depths diminishing rapidly below 1500 m.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Isolated pockets of wind slab could still be reactive to human triggering. Watch for lee features in the alpine with denser and deeper drifts.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Dec 8th, 2019 5:00PM