Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Nov 28th, 2017–Nov 29th, 2017

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Coast Inland.

Watch for wind slabs in exposed areas. If snow amounts exceed those indicated in the weather forecast section, consider adjusting your objectives accordingly.

Confidence

Moderate - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

A series of storms is expected to bring only relatively light amounts to this region.Wednesday: Expect around 5 cm new during the day, then another 5-10 cm on Wednesday night. Freezing levels around 1200 m. Moderate westerly winds, becoming strong southwesterly later on.Thursday: 5-10 cm new snow, but note there is uncertainty with this forecast. Freezing levels around 1200 m. Moderate southwesterly winds.Friday: 5 cm new snow. Freezing levels around 1000 m. Strong southwesterly winds.

Avalanche Summary

There was a natural avalanche cycle on Sunday. On Monday and Tuesday no activity was reported, although there are not many observers out there right now. Small wind slabs are the most likely type of avalanche during over the next few days.

Snowpack Summary

Approximately 20-30 cm new snow now sits on top of a rain crust that formed during the recent wet weather. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. Strong winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Treeline snow depths are approximately 90 cm throughout the region.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slab avalanches are expected to form in response to loading from new snow and wind. The new snow may not bond well to the underlying crust.

Use increased caution in lee areas. Recent snowfall and wind loading have created wind slabs.Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2