Avalanche Forecast
Regions: South Coast.
An atypical wind direction may form wind slabs on terrain features that don't often have them. Apply added caution if you find moistening snow as the sun heats it up.
Confidence
High - Confidence is due to a stable weather pattern with little change expected.
Weather Forecast
FRIDAY NIGHT: Partly cloudy, light to moderate east wind, treeline temperature -7 C.
SATURDAY: Clear skies, light to moderate northeast wind, treeline temperature -10 C.
SUNDAY: Clear skies, light to moderate northeast wind, treeline temperature -5 C, freezing level rising to 1000 m.
MONDAY: Clear skies, light to moderate northeast wind, treeline temperature 1 C, freezing level 2000 m.
Avalanche Summary
There have not been reports of avalanche activity in the region since those reported in this MIN. The potential of triggering wind slab avalanches will likely increase as northeast wind continues to load atypical terrain features in exposed terrain.
Snowpack Summary
Wind slabs may be found on all aspects due to variable wind directions. Recent wind has blown from the northeast, forming fresh wind slabs in south to southwest terrain features at higher elevations. In sheltered terrain, about 30 cm of snow may overly a melt-freeze crust and potentially small surface hoar crystals.
The remainder of the snowpack is well-settled. The snowpack depth varies from around 300 to 400 cm around 1200 to 1400 m and tapers rapidly with elevation, with no snow below 700 m.
Terrain and Travel
- Be aware of highly variable recent wind loading patterns.
- Be carefull around freshly wind loaded features.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
An atypical loading pattern is occurring due to wind blowing from the northeast. This means that slopes that often don't have wind slabs may hold them this weekend. Use extra caution as you approach exposed terrain features.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2