Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 7th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Storm Slabs.
trettie,
Avalanche Canada
Fresh storm snow sits on a reactive and widespread layer of surface hoar.
Be cautious around roll-overs, especially in wind-loaded areas.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Evidence of a natural avalanche cycle (up to size 2.5) from the recent storm was reported in the Hudson Bay Range. On Wednesday, debris of wet loose, wind and storm slab avalanches were observed depending on aspects and elevations.
If you do go into the backcountry, consider submitting a Mountain Information Network report.
Snowpack Summary
30 to 60 cm of recent snow sits above a large layer of surface hoar. This layer likely exists on all aspects above 1200 m. Below this elevation a crust exists on all aspects.
In general, the snowpack is still shallow for this time of year with snowpack depths at treeline ranging from 50 to 150 cm. Early season hazards are still a concern.
Weather Summary
Thursday Night
Mostly clear, no new snow expected, southwest alpine wind 15 to 35 km/h, treeline temperature -6°C.
Friday
A mix of sun and cloud with no new snow expected, southwest alpine wind 15 to 35 km/h, treeline temperature -6°C.
Saturday
Cloudy with around 5 cm of new snow expected, south alpine wind 40 to 60 km/h, treeline temperature -2°C.
Sunday
A mix of sun and cloud with no new snow expected, west alpine wind 25 to 60 km/h, freezing level rising to 1300 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Be aware of the potential for larger than expected storm slabs due to the presence of buried surface hoar.
- Closely monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surface.
- Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
Problems
Storm Slabs
Recent storm snow is forming a slab over large surface hoar crystals. This could result in storm slabs that remain reactive longer than usual and could propagate further. Surface hoar is more likely to be well preserved at treeline.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 8th, 2023 4:00PM
