Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Mar 20th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Loose Wet.
CG,
Avalanche Canada
Get going early and avoid exposure to steep, sunny terrain being baked by direct sun. Wet loose avalanches have the potential to dig deeper as they move downslope, collecting a hefty mass that would ruin your day.
Summary
Confidence
High
Avalanche Summary
Several loose, wet avalanches (sz 2-3) were observed on S'ly aspects Sunday, the largest being a deposit of wet, chunky debris on the Twins snowshed west of Rogers Pass. Frequent Flyer spit out a wet sz 2.5 midday Sunday
Deep persistent slabs are of concern, with a report of a cornice-triggered pocket high on Mt Smart failing to glacial ice, as well as a deep slab on Mt Fidelity. Also, the SW aspect at the top of 8812 Bowl/Bruins Ridge has reloaded on the basal crust, waiting for another release.
Snowpack Summary
Sun and warm afternoon temps have created a surface crust on solar aspects at all elevations, while N'ly slopes contain settled, dry powder (good, predictable riding).
Below this is a generally strong snowpack, however the basal weakness of rounding facets/decomposing crust near the ground should factor in to your terrain-use decisions.
Weather Summary
Sunny days with cool, clear nights for the week. Feels like Spring...
Tonight: clear, Alp low -4*C, light E winds
Tues: mix of sun/clouds, Alp high -2*C, light ridge winds, FZL rising to 1900m in PM
Wed: sun and cloud, Alp high -1, light ridge winds, FZL 2000m in PM
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Avoid sun exposed slopes, especially if snow surface is moist or wet.
- Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.
Problems
Loose Wet
As the sun heats up solar slopes, expect the surface snow to lose cohesion and trigger easily in steep terrain.
Aspects: East, South East, South, South West, West, North West.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Mar 21st, 2023 4:00PM
