Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 10th, 2019 4:11PM

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

Avalanche Canada mbender, Avalanche Canada

The forecast calls for new snow and wind, which will increase avalanche danger through the day on Monday.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Monday

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY Night: Mainly cloudy with isolated flurries / light to moderate south wind / alpine temperature -8 CMONDAY: Flurries,10-15 cm during the day and another 5-10 cm overnight / moderate to strong southwest wind / alpine temperature -8 CTUESDAY: A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries / light to moderate west wind / alpine temperature -7 C / freezing level 1000 m WEDNESDAY: Cloudy with sunny periods / light to moderate west wind / alpine temperature -7 C / freezing level 1100 m

Avalanche Summary

Expect the likelihood of triggering storm and wind slab avalanches to increase as new snow accumulates on Monday. On Friday, there were reports of natural and human triggered loose dry avalanches size 1-1.5.

Snowpack Summary

10-20 cm of recent snow sits mainly on wind slabs and facets (sugary snow), as well as surface hoar (feathery crystals) in sheltered areas and a crust on sun exposed slopes. At lower elevations, a weak layer buried in mid January can be found approximately 50-60 cm deep. This layer consists of surface hoar and facets, and may be combined with a crust on south facing slopes. This layer has been most reactive at treeline and below. Avalanche activity on this layer has dropped off significantly, however it may still be possible to trigger avalanches on this layer in areas such as steep cutblocks, and large open glades in the trees.The lower snowpack is generally considered to be strong, except for shallow, rocky areas where cold temperatures continue to facet (weaken) the snowpack.

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs
New snow falling with moderate to strong southwest winds through the day on Monday will begin to build thin storm slabs and promote windslab development in the lee of exposed terrain features.
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Be aware of how much snow is accumulating through the day and how it is bonding to old snow below.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Mar 11th, 2019 2:00PM

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