Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 22nd, 2024 4:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada ahanna, Avalanche Canada

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Watch for isolated pockets of wind slab in leeward alpine features and back off sun exposed slopes during the heat of the day.

Summary

Confidence

Low

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanche activity has been reported.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 10 cm of recent snow is becoming moist on sunny aspects and at lower elevations. The recent snow sits over a series of widespread melt-freeze crusts on all but high north-facing alpine terrain, where snow is dry and likely wind affected.

Weather Summary

Monday night

Clear. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1900 m.

Tuesday

A mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 30 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +2 °C. Freezing level 2200m.

Wednesday

A mix of sun and cloud with flurries bringing a trace. 30 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1800m.

Thursday

A mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 40 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1700m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Back off slopes as the surface becomes moist or wet with rising temperatures.
  • Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
  • Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
  • When a thick, melt-freeze surface crust is present, avalanche activity is unlikely.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Thin pockets of wind slab are possible where wind has deposited sufficient snow into lee terrain features at upper elevations. Wind slabs may be especially reactive where they sit over a crust.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet

Cold dry snow will be especially sensitive to warm temperatures and strong sun. Expect small loose avalanches on steep sunny slopes and at elevations where temperatures rise above zero.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Apr 23rd, 2024 4:00PM

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