Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 16th, 2011 8:45AM

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

ccampbell, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Coastal.

This bulletin is based on limited data. Local variation in conditions and danger levels are likely to exist. To produce more accurate forecasts, we need information. Please send an email to forecaster@avalanche.ca.

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Due to limited field observationsfor the entire period

Weather Forecast

Thursday: Another 5cm possible with moderate to strong southeasterly winds and freezing levels lowering to sea level.Friday and Saturday: Clear, cold and dry with light to moderate northwesterly winds.

Avalanche Summary

Recent reports include natural slab avalanches up to 60cm thick triggered by heavy loading during storms. The possibility for natural and human-triggered wind and storm slabs is expected to remain for the forecast period.

Snowpack Summary

Another 15-20cm of snow brings total treeline depths up to 2 metres. Whumpfing, cracking, and easy shears were recently found within the top 50-60cm. The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong, with an old rain crust near the ground.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Near ridgecrests and terrain breaks, and in cross-loaded gullies.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

2 - 5

Storm Slabs

Steep unsupported slopes.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Nov 17th, 2011 3:00AM