Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 11th, 2017 4:17PM

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

mgrist, Avalanche Canada

Purcells.

Seek the shade near tree line for the best and safest riding.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

We'll see little change in the weather pattern: valley cloud and cool temperatures down low but sunny and relatively warm up high. TUESDAY: Sunny with increasing cloud in the afternoon. Light to moderate west wind. Freezing level near 2000 m with a colder air layer in the valleys. WEDNESDAY: Sunny with cloudy periods. Light northerly winds. Freezing level around 1200m.THURSDAY: Cloudy. Light wind. Freezing level near 2000 m.

Avalanche Summary

Over the past few days there have been small wet loose avalanches reported on steep south (west) aspects above 2400m elevation. A previous wind slab cycle has not shown any activity over the last few days.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slabs from last week are gaining strength and haven't shown signs of propagating (spreading across the slope) recently. That said, some wind slabs may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks, primarily on north through south east aspects. Below tree line, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Isolated wind slabs may still exist at the highest elevations - watch out for 'reverse loading' on south through east aspects.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.Avoid freshly wind loaded features.Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 12th, 2017 2:00PM