Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Chic-Chocs.
If you're taking out the crampons and venturing into the alpine, make sure to assess for slab properties. With the few centimetres available and the moderate to strong winds, expect the wind slabs to gain in size.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been observed or reported, but a few small, isolated pockets of soft slabs reacted to skier traffic on Tuesday.
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Snowpack Summary
Moderate to strong northerly winds have redistributed the low density snow overlying the January 18 ice crust, which varies in thickness and stiffness. That crust is much more friable (and skiable) in areas with a denser canopy. In the alpine and at treeline, these winds have exposed this icy surface in many places. A thin layer of surface hoar has been observed below tree line, in exposed areas. Although it is only buried under 2 cm of snow at this time, it should be kept on your radar.
It goes without saying that travelling in the alpine and on steep terrain is still adventurous. Many obstacles are still not covered, increasing the consequences of a slide on the ice. In the alpine, snow surface go from exposed rocks, to ice, to areas of greater accumulation. In general, the heights of the snowpack vary from 50 to 100 cm depending on the sector and the altitude.
Weather Summary
Forecast for the Chic-Chocs ridges and summits.
Synopsis: A cold front will cross the region Tuesday night and leave some precipitations. It will be followed by high pressure, which will keep temperatures very cold.
Tuesday night and overnight: Cloudy. 2-3 cm of snow. Wind from the northwest from 45 to 75 km/h. Min. -14. Freezing level at valley bottom.
Wednesday: Clearing in the PM. Trace of snow. Wind from the northwest around 25 to 50 km/h. Max. -24C.
Thursday: Cloudy. 20-30 cm of snow. South winds from 75 to 100 km/h. Max. -8C.
Friday: Clearing during the day. End of precipitations in the AM. Wind from the northwest around 50 km/h. Max -20C.
For more details check the Alpine Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Small avalanches can have serious consequences in extreme terrain. Carefully evaluate your line for wind slab hazard before you commit to it.
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Fresh wind slabs will likely form throughout the day, diligently watch for changing conditions.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Little snow is available for transport, but in the start zone and on cross loaded features, the thickness may surprise.
Aspects: East, South East, South, South West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2