Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 21st, 2024 4:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada wlewis, Avalanche Canada

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Watch for reactivity within the wind affected pockets of storm snow, especially where it overlies the crust.

Minimize your exposure to sun affected slopes, including overhead hazard.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported. We expect small slabs may have occurred on Sunday with the fresh snow and strong winds - reactivity may linger in wind-affected features. With full sun on Monday, wet loose avalanches are possible on steep, south-facing slopes within the new snow.

If you have any recent photos or observations, please submit them to the Mountain Information Network, observations are limited in the spring.

Snowpack Summary

Storm snow of 5-20 cm can be found, redistributed into wind affected deposits on north and east facing slopes near ridgeline. This recent snow sits over a widespread crust. Strong sunshine on Monday is expected to create moist surface snow on south facing slopes.

Below treeline terrain is snow free or has very low snow cover. Travel conditions are challenging with exposed rocks, stumps, and open creeks.

Weather Summary

Sunday Night

Mostly clear skies with 20-30 km/h northwest winds. Flurries end in the early evening. Freezing levels remain steady around 1200 m.

Monday

Clear skies. 20-30 km/h easterly winds. Freezing levels rise to 2000 m. Treeline temperatures reach +7 °C.

Tuesday

A mix of sun and cloud with 30 km/h southwest wind. Freezing levels steady around 2000 m. Treeline temperatures around +7 °C.

Wednesday

A mix of sun and cloud with 20-30 km/h southwest wind. Freezing levels drop to 1500 m. Treeline temperatures around +3 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet
  • A moist or wet snow surface, pinwheeling and natural avalanches are all indicators of a weakening snowpack.
  • Keep in mind the crust offers an excellent bed surface for avalanches.
  • Be especially cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Problems

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet

Wet loose avalanches are most likely on sun affected slopes, in the afternoon as temperatures rise.

Aspects: South East, South, South West, West.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Approach ridgelines with caution, until the new snow has had time to bond. Rising temperatures and sun will increase reactivity.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 22nd, 2024 4:00PM

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