Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 15th, 2017 3:49PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Cornices and Loose Wet.

Avalanche Canada mbender, Avalanche Canada

Expect the avalanche danger to increase as the sun comes out and  the temperature rises through the day.

Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light south wind / Alpine temperature -3 / Freezing level 1300mMONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Moderate east wind / Alpine temperature -1 / Freezing level 1500mTUESDAY: Scattered flurries / Light to moderate southeast wind / Alpine temperature -4 / Freezing level 1200m

Avalanche Summary

There have been no recent reports of avalanche activity. That being said there is little to no information being passed on from the region recently. Exposure to large overhanging cornices remains a significant concern. As the sun comes out over the weekend expect to see cornices weaken and loose snow avalanches run from steep sun exposed slopes during the warmest parts of the day.

Snowpack Summary

New snow falling last week has been redistributed by south and east wind at upper elevations. This is likely sitting on a hard wind crust in exposed alpine areas and sun crust on aspects facing the sun. Lower elevations are experiencing a melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely moist or wet throughout its entire thickness. A deep persistent weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.

Problems

Cornices

An icon showing Cornices
Solar radiation and daytime warming are common cornice triggers for cornices.
Even small cornice falls may trigger larger avalanches on slopes belowCornices become weak with daytime heating.Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet
The potential for prolonged periods of sunshine on Sunday will weaken surface snow especially on steep rocky solar aspects.
Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 16th, 2017 2:00PM

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