Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 26th, 2014–Dec 27th, 2014

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Northwest Inland.

This forecast is based on very limited observations. If you are out in the mountains, please considering sending in your observations or posting on our website.

Confidence

Poor - Due to the number and quality of field observations

Weather Forecast

The weak storm system exits the region on Saturday morning and will be replaced by a ridge of high pressure. This ridge is expected to persist for several days. There is a lot of model uncertainty on how much precipitation during Friday night's storm but it looks like 10-15mm are possible for parts of the region. On Saturday, snow should taper off in the morning, periods of sun are possible, freezing levels near valley bottom, and moderate northerly alpine winds. Sunday should be mostly clear and dry with treeline temperatures around -15C and moderate NE alpine winds. Monday should be pretty much the same with colder temperatures.

Avalanche Summary

On Tuesday we received a report of a size 1.5 skier remotely triggered avalanche in the far north of the region. It released on a steep, wind loaded feature and was triggered from 5m away. The slab was 25-45cm thick and occurred around 1600m elevation.

Snowpack Summary

Below the new snow you'll likely find old wind-scoured surfaces or old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and well-settled storm snow in sheltered areas. Last week the region received around 30-50cm of snow. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer may still be a concern in isolated areas.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

New snow with strong winds will likely form new wind slabs in leeward features overnight.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3