Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 23rd, 2015 8:15AM

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

Avalanche Canada ccampbell, Avalanche Canada

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch out for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

Light precipitation could start as early as Tuesday with freezing levels peaking around 1000 m, and light but gusty southwesterly winds. Increasing snowfall intensity throughout the day on Wednesday with around 5 cm expected by the evening and another 5-10 cm for Thursday. Freezing levels hovering around 800-1000 m and generally light winds.

Avalanche Summary

Reports from Sunday include Isolated wet releases up to Size 2.5 out of steep sun-exposed slopes, and pin wheeling on steep slopes at treeline and below. One large cornice failure was reported, but it didn't trigger any slabs on the slope below. As temperatures rise, keep in mind the possibility of glide slabs releasing on smooth rock surfaces - avoid traveling on or under slopes sporting glide cracks.

Snowpack Summary

A variable snow surface generally includes a supportive crust with surface hoar or surface facets, all breaking down to corn snow with daytime warming and sun-exposure, but in general the snowpack is strong. A layer of surface hoar buried in the upper snowpack has been reported in some areas, and is worth investigating before committing to any big alpine terrain. At the base of the snowpack, weak facets may be found.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
Wind slabs may be lurking on lee and cross-loaded terrain at and above treeline, and in glacial drainages from downslope winds.
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Feb 24th, 2015 2:00PM