Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Little Yoho.
Warm weather is heading our way starting Thursday so start early. The main warmup happens in the afternoon accompanied by strong winds. We expect the hazard to rise significantly on Friday with snow/rain and freezing levels forecast to reach 2800 m.
Weather Forecast
The brief ridge of high pressure will move out of the area on Thursday as another Pacific system heads our way. Expect Thursday to start cold, then warm through the day and the clouds roll in for the afternoon with strong winds. No freeze overnight and Friday will see high freezing levels and some rain/snow.
Snowpack Summary
15-20 cm of soft, dry snow sits on a firm crust on N aspects down to at least 2000 m. On solar and windward aspects, soft moist snow exists below ridge crests but has been away near ridges, which are barren. Solar aspects will be crust on Thursday morning. Windslabs exist in immediate leeward areas of ridges, but dissipate once down slope.
Avalanche Summary
FIeld trip near Sunshine Village observed a size 1.5 windslab/cornice on a SE aspect and a fresh cornice failure on the N side. Otherwise no new avalanches reported or observed.
Confidence
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Windslabs exist near to ridge crests (within 50 meters) but seem to dissipate once you get down slope. Pay close attention near ridges and entrances to ski lines. Once you are down slope it's about 10-20 cm on crust.
- Use caution in lee areas. Recent loading has created reactive slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Loose Wet
This is generally an afternoon problem at low elevations. Ice climbers should ensure they are finished their routes early and be out of any gullies by mid-day at the latest.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Below Treeline.
Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2