Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

A natural avalanche cycle of up to 2.5 in size took place this week in the alpine.

On the northern Gaspé coast, several large avalanches have been reported in recent days. These avalanches slid through the layer of facets at the base of the snowpack.

If you are out in the backcountry, please share your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).

On solar aspects (east, south and west), a thin sun crust has formed this week below treeline and possibly up to treeline. In addition, a thin layer of frost (3 to 6 mm) is present on the surface of the snowpack in some areas of our forecast zone, mainly in the McGerrigle mountains (Mines Madeleine and probably Ernest-Laforce). In the alpine and at treeline, the wind has sculpted the landscape, creating great variability. The landscape alternates between snowdrifts, hardened surfaces, eroded areas and snow accumulation. In areas sheltered from the wind, especially below treeline, this snow lies on a well consolidated mid-pack. However, a fragile layer of facets persists at the base. The height of the snowpack varies between 120 and 220 cm.

WEATHER FOR THE CRESTS AND SUMMITS OF CHIC-CHOCS

An extensive ridge of high pressure forming near the Great Lakes will extend over Quebec until Saturday.

Friday evening and night: Partly cloudy. Winds north, 20 to 40 km/h. Low -15.

Saturday: Mostly sunny. Wind northwest, 20 to 40 km/h. High -10.

Sunday: Alternating sun and clouds. Accumulation 3 to 6 cm. Wind west, 20 to 40 km/h. High -8.

Monday: Sunny. Wind southwest, 20 to 40 km/h. High -9.

For more details, see the Chic-Chocs alpine weather forecast.

• Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
• If triggered, wind slabs avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.