Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Brandywine, Garibaldi, Homathko, Sea To Sky, Sky Pilot, Spearhead, Tantalus.
Excellent riding conditions exist in wind-sheltered terrain. Exercise caution around ridge tops and cross-loaded features.
Confidence
High
Avalanche Summary
Several natural and explosive-triggered wind slab avalanches were reported over the weekend. In general, all avalanches occurred in reverse-loaded (south-facing) or cross-loaded alpine terrain features. Mostly between size 1 and 2, with one size 3 observation.
If you head into the backcountry, please consider submitting a MIN report.
Snowpack Summary
Recent north winds have had a significant effect on snow surfaces with notable wind slab development observed on south-facing slopes.
In sheltered regions, there's a possibility of isolated pockets of surface hoar being buried under 30 to 50 cm of recent snow.
The mid and lower snowpack consists of a few old crusts and is generally well-settled and well-bonded.
Weather Summary
Monday Night
Clear with no precipitation, northwest alpine winds 0 to 20 km/h, treeline temperature -4 °C.
Tuesday
Partly cloudy with no precipitation, southwest alpine winds 10 to 30 km/h, treeline temperature -6 °C.
Wednesday
Cloudy with 10 to 15 cm of snow, south alpine winds 10 to 30 km/h, treeline temperature -9 °C.
Thursday
Partly cloudy with no precipitation, southeast alpine winds 10 to 30 km/h, treeline temperature -9 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
- Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
- Seek out sheltered terrain where new snow hasn't been wind-affected.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind slabs are the most prevalent in south-facing alpine terrain around ridgetops and cross-loaded features like mid-slope gullies.
Aspects: East, South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2