Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 17th, 2013 9:06AM

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

jfloyer, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to variable snowpack conditions

Weather Forecast

Synopsis: Relatively benign weather is anticipated through the forecast period.Monday. Mostly flurries. The odd location may get 2-4 cm. Winds light westerly. Freezing level around 900 m.Tuesday and Wednesday: Flurries. Calm. Freezing level around 900 m.

Avalanche Summary

Small loose snow avalanches were reported during recent snowfall.

Snowpack Summary

10-20 cm of recent snowfall (possibly a little more near Kokanee Glacier Park) overlies a recent layer of surface hoar buried around Feb 12. We have had some reports this layer contains crystals up to 30mm in some locations. This large size of crystal increases the likelihood this layer will present problems as it becomes more deeply buried. Expect to see wind slabs in exposed areas. Two previous buried surface hoar/facet/sun crust layers from Feb 4th and Jan 23 are still being tracked by professionals but have not been reactive recently. They can be found approximately 30 cm and 50 cm below the surface, respectively. These layers may be worth investigating on a safe, representative adjacent slope if you are considering riding in aggressive terrain.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong winds have loaded lee features on a potentially weak interface.

Watch freshly wind loaded features on steep terrain.>Watch for whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks or recent avalanches.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Feb 18th, 2013 2:00PM