Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 3rd, 2021 4:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low.

VIAC ahanna, VIAC

Email

Vancouver Island.

Avalanches are unlikely but a hard crust can make for difficult travel and increase the consequences of slips or tumbles on steep terrain.

Summary

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

Friday night: Increasing cloud. Light winds. Treeline temperatures around -6.

Saturday: Flurries up to 5 cm. Light southwest wind switching northwest and building to strong through the day. Treeline high temperatures around -4.

Sunday: Mix of sun and cloud. Light to moderate northwest wind. Treeline high temperatures around -4.

Monday: Flurries, 5-10 cm. Light to moderate northwest wind. Treeline high temperatures around -3.

Avalanche Summary

Recent heavy rain followed by a solid refreeze has effectively eliminated avalanche concerns in the region.

Snowpack Summary

A dusting of new snow may exist in the alpine, however heavy rain recently affected the snowpack at all elevations. Strong surface crusts now exist at all elevations and have effectively locked the snowpack in place underneath any skiff of new snow.

Recent indications of our region's existing (but eroding) snowpack suggested alpine snowpack depths around 150 cm, with depth tapering dramatically with elevation to about 30-60 cm at treeline. Snow cover is thin and below threshold for avalanches below about 1300 metres. 

Terrain and Travel

  • When a thick, melt-freeze surface crust is present, avalanche activity is unlikely.
  • A crust on the surface will help bind the snow together, but may make for tough travel conditions.

Valid until: Dec 4th, 2021 4:00PM

Login
Join