Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 4th, 2019 3:28PM

The alpine rating is high, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Storm Slabs.

mconlan, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

Wintry conditions are back up high. Heavy snowfall is expected above around 1500 m, likely producing very dangerous avalanche conditions. Best to avoid avalanche terrain above the snow-rain line and limit your overhead exposure.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

THURSDAY NIGHT: Cloudy with snowfall above 1700 m and rain below, accumulation 20 cm of snow, moderate southeast wind, treeline temperature 2 C.FRIDAY: Cloudy with snowfall above 1500 m, accumulation 20 to 30 cm, moderate to strong south wind, treeline temperature 1 C.SATURDAY: Cloudy with snowfall above 1200 m, accumulation 40 to 50 cm, strong south wind, treeline temperature -1 C.SUNDAY: Cloudy with snowfall above 1200 m, accumulation 30 to 40 cm, strong south wind, treeline temperature -1 C.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported in the region on Wednesday. The likelihood of triggering avalanches is increased at and above the snow-rain line due to the continuous snowfall.

Snowpack Summary

Above around 1400 m, expect to find 40 to 50 cm of recent snow that overlies a melt-freeze crust or wet snow. This new snow may have been blown around with strong south wind, producing deeper deposits in lee terrain features. Below 1400 m, the snowpack is wet from rain and above-freezing temperature. Snow is disappearing rapidly at lower elevations.

Problems

Storm Slabs

The storm continues Friday, with more snowfall and strong southwest wind above around 1500 m. The storm will likely produce touchy storm slabs that could release naturally.

Good day to avoid avalanche terrain above the rain-snow line (approximately 1500 m).Minimize exposure to overhead avalanche terrain, as large avalanches may reach run-out zones.Watch for rapidly changing conditions during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind, or rain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Apr 5th, 2019 2:00PM