Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 22nd, 2011 9:38AM

The alpine rating is high, the treeline rating is high, and the below treeline rating is considerable. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Storm Slabs.

ccampbell, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Coastal.

This bulletin is based on limited data. Local variation in conditions and danger levels are likely to exist. To produce more accurate forecasts, we need information. Please send an email to forecaster@avalanche.ca

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Due to limited field observationsfor the entire period

Weather Forecast

Wednesday: 20-30cm of snow, primarily in the southwestern part of the region, with freezing levels as high as 400m and strong southwesterly winds.Thursday: Another 20-40cm of snow with intensity tapering off throughout the day. Freezing levels in valley bottoms and moderate to strong westerly winds.Friday: Light to moderate precipitation with moderate to strong westerly winds.

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanche have been reported, but I suspect natural avalanche activity occurred and will continue in response to heavy loading from snow and especially wind.

Snowpack Summary

Recent storm snow totals are in the 30-60cm range. Varying temperature, precipitation intensity, and wind throughout the recent storm, as well as surface hoar on the previous snow surface, has probably resulted in various weaknesses within and under the recent storm snow. Previous storm snow weaknesses could also be lurking in the upper snowpack. The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong with an old rain crust near the ground.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Near ridge crests and terrain breaks, and in cross-loaded gullies. Natural avalanche activity probably occurred and is expected to continue in response to heavy loading from snow and wind.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

2 - 5

Storm Slabs

Storm slabs are likely very touchy, especially where they are sitting on surface hoar.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Nov 23rd, 2011 8:00AM