Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Brandywine, Garibaldi, Homathko, Sea To Sky, Spearhead, Tantalus.
Watch for reactivity within the wind affected pockets of storm snow, especially where it overlies the crust.
Minimize your exposure to sun affected slopes, including overhead hazard.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported. We expect small slabs may have occurred on Sunday with the fresh snow and strong winds - reactivity may linger in wind-affected features. With full sun on Monday, wet loose avalanches are possible on steep, south-facing slopes within the new snow.
If you have any recent photos or observations, please submit them to the Mountain Information Network, observations are limited in the spring.
Snowpack Summary
Storm snow of 5-15 cm can be found, redistributed into wind affected deposits on north and east facing slopes near ridgeline. This recent snow sits over a widespread crust present on all slopes except high elevation, north facing terrain.
Below treeline terrain is snow free or has very low snow cover. Travel conditions are challenging with exposed rocks, stumps, and open creeks.
Weather Summary
Sunday Night
Partly cloudy with flurries ending early evening. 20-30 km/h westerly winds. Freezing levels around 1000 m.
Monday
Mostly clear skies with 10-20 km/h east winds. Freezing levels rise to 2000 m. 10-20 km/h southeast winds. Treeline temperatures around +1 °C.
Tuesday
A mix of sun and cloud. Freezing levels remain around 2000 m. 20-30 km/h southwest winds. Treeline temperatures around +1 °C.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud. Freezing levels drop to 1500 m. Treeline temperatures around -3 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Avoid sun exposed slopes, especially if snow surface is moist or wet.
- A moist or wet snow surface, pinwheeling and natural avalanches are all indicators of a weakening snowpack.
- Keep in mind the crust offers an excellent bed surface for avalanches.
- Avoid freshly wind loaded terrain features.
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
Wet loose avalanches are most likely on sun affected slopes, in the afternoon as temperatures rise.
Aspects: South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Wind Slabs
Approach ridgelines with caution, until the new snow has had time to bond. Rising temperatures and sun will increase reactivity.
Aspects: North, North East, East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2