Avalanche Forecast

On Thursday strong sunshine triggered a size 1.5 wind slab and cornice fall activity. Small wet avalanches were noted from steep, south facing slopes. With limited sunshine on Saturday, we expect wet avalanche activity to be unlikely.

North-facing alpine slopes still hold dry snow, reactivity may linger in isolated wind affected pockets here.

If you have recent photos or observations, please submit them to the Mountain Information Network, observations are limited.

A widespread surface crust likely exists at all elevations, except on north facing slopes where pockets of wind affected dry snow exist above 2000 m. With mild temperatures expected over the day and limited sunshine the crust may begin to break down but wet avalanches are considered unlikely.

Below treeline terrain has low snow cover. Travel conditions are challenging with exposed rocks, stumps, and open creeks.

Friday Night

Clear skies. 20 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Freezing level varies, 1500 m in coastal areas and 1000 m further inland.

Saturday

A sunny start with afternoon cloud and scattered flurries. Freezing levels around 1700 m. Treeline temperatures of -1 °C. 40-50 km/h southwest winds.

Sunday

Snow continues overnight, favouring the Whistler area with up to 20 cm possible.

Cloudy with another 5-10 cm of snow possible over the day. 20-40 km/h southwesterly winds. Freezing levels around 1000 m, treeline temperatures around -6 °C.

Monday

Mostly clear skies with 10 km/h northwest winds. Freezing levels around 1200 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
• Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
• Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.