Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 25th, 2019 3:46PM

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

Avalanche Canada jsmith, Avalanche Canada

Any appearance of the strong April sun can initiate a loose wet avalanche cycle. The likelihood of loose wet avalanches increases as temperatures warm through the day and/or if the sun comes out for a prolonged period of time.

Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

THURSDAY NIGHT: Cloudy / Light, southwesterly winds / Alpine low -2 C / Freezing level 1700 m.

FRIDAY: Cloudy with isolated alpine flurries; 0-5 cm. / Light, northwesterly winds / Alpine high 3 C / Freezing level 2000 m.

SATURDAY: Cloudy with alpine flurries; 3-10 cm. / Moderate, westerly winds / Alpine high -1 C / Freezing level 1700 m.

SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light, northeasterly winds / Alpine high -1 C / Freezing level 1600 m.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported in this region on Wednesday. However, there are currently no professional observers submitting daily observations. Please submit your observations to the MIN. Photos of avalanches or current conditions are particularly useful.

Snowpack Summary

As temperatures cool, we will enter a diurnal cycle during which the hazard will be low in the mornings, if there was a strong overnight freeze, and elevate throughout the day depending on warming and solar radiation. Hazard ratings are for the peak hazard expected during each day.

Check out this link for useful advice on managing avalanche hazard during spring conditions. HERE.

Problems

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet

Any appearance of the strong April sun can initiate a loose wet avalanche cycle. The likelihood of loose wet avalanches increases as temperatures warm through the day and/or if the sun comes out for a prolonged period of time.

  • A moist/wet snow surface, pinwheeling and natural avalanches all indicate a weakening snowpack.
  • Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 26th, 2019 2:00PM