Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 16th, 2018 4:01PM

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

mconlan, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

We should see sun, clouds, and localized flurries. The new snow won't bond well to a crust and the sun will further weaken it. Be cautious on south slopes when it is sunny and watch your overhead exposure, as cornice falls could trigger avalanches.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Weather Forecast

TUESDAY: A mix of sun and clouds with intermittent flurries, light to moderate west winds, treeline temperature -2 C, freezing level 1000 m.WEDNESDAY: A mix of sun and clouds, light east winds, treeline temperature -1 C, freezing level 1200 m.THURSDAY: Sunny with afternoon clouds, light southwest winds, treeline temperature -1 C, freezing level 1300 m.

Avalanche Summary

We have received very little information on avalanche activity for this region. From what we have heard, skiers could easily trigger small loose wet avalanches on Sunday. Natural loose wet avalanches were also observed in treeline and alpine terrain, particularly on southerly aspects. Large slab avalanches were also observed, which may have released during the storm on Friday.We would very much appreciate it if you spend a moment to submit any observations you have to the Mountain Information Network here, even if it is just a photo. Thanks!

Snowpack Summary

Around 20 to 30 cm of snow on Monday fell on a melt-freeze crust formed by Sunday’s sunshine and warm air temperatures. On shady slopes in the alpine, the snow fell on wind slabs formed from strong south winds early in the weekend. A thick melt-freeze crust exists below this, which is about 40 to 60 cm deep. The snow below this is well-settled and strong.Below about 1000 m, a spring snowpack exists.

Problems

Storm Slabs

20 to 30 cm of snow fell on Monday, which overlies a melt-freeze crust in most areas. The snow likely won't bond well to the crust and could produce large avalanches.

Be cautious as you transition into wind-affected terrain.Observe for the bond of new snow with the old surface before committing into avalanche terrain.Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices, which could trigger slabs on slopes below.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Loose Wet

The sun will rapidly weaken the snow surface. Expect loose wet avalanches, particularly on steep southerly terrain and near rocks. Watch your overhead exposure, as they can grow and become large and destructive.

Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.Avoid steep slopes when the solar radiation is strong.