Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 2nd, 2019 3:50PM

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

shorton, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Coastal.

Prepare for another week without snow and remain cautious in steep and wind loaded terrain.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate -

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY NIGHT: Clear, 30-40 km/h east wind, alpine temperatures drop to -15 C.SUNDAY: Sunny, 30-50 km/h east wind, alpine high temperature near -10 C.MONDAY: Sunny, 20-30 km/h east wind, alpine high temperature near -7 C.TUESDAY: Sunny, 20-40 km/h southeast wind, alpine high temperature near -4 C.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported on Friday.On Wednesday, there were several human triggered slab avalanches (size 1-2) near Terrace. A few of these were triggered remotely (from a distance). These were on north and west aspects around 1400 m. Similar activity had been reported in this area over the previous week.

Snowpack Summary

The region has seen recent strong winds from various directions. This will mean that wind slabs are likely to be found on most aspects, especially in the alpine and at treeline. South facing slopes likely have a crust on the surface. Roughly 30-50 cm of snow sits above a layer of cold, soft faceted snow and surface hoar. This layer has been reactive in snowpack tests and could enhance the propagation of wind slabs, especially on north and west alpine features. The lower snowpack is generally considered strong.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong shifting wind has left slabs on all aspects. These slabs could be more reactive on north and west aspects where they sit above weak faceted snow.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Use caution on open slopes and convex rolls Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 3rd, 2019 2:00PM