Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 10th, 2016 4:16PM

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

jsmith, Avalanche Canada

Lizard-Flathead.

Generally safe avalanche conditions in most areas. If the winds pick up, thin wind slabs may form on lee features in the alpine.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Sunday: Cloudy with flurries; 2-5 cm new snow / Light to moderate southwesterly winds / High of -13 C.Monday: Mix of sun and cloud / Light southwesterly winds / High of -20 C.Tuesday: Sunny / Light northwesterly winds / High of -20 C.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported in this region on Friday.

Snowpack Summary

The snow that fell last weekend has seen little wind effect in many areas throughout the region. If winds pick up this weekend, freshly formed thin wind slabs will be the primary concern. The mid pack is reported to be well settled. There is sufficient snow on the ground for avalanches at treeline and alpine elevations, and possibly in some below treeline locations. Reports suggest typical treeline snow depths are around 110-150 cm, but a report from the east side of region indicated a much lower snow depth of around 90 cm. Limited reports suggest the crust from the middle of November is down 50-80 cm and the crust from early November is down 80-110 cm.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Watch for sings of wind moving the snow around such as snow blowing off of ridges and deep pockets of snow on leeward slopes. Avoid slopes where the snow feels stiff or 'slabby'.

Use caution when transitioning into wind affected terrain.Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.Avoid freshly wind loaded features.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 11th, 2016 2:00PM