Avalanche Forecast

Issued: May 8th, 2024 4:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Deep Persistent Slabs.

Avalanche Canada CG, Avalanche Canada

The first major heat wave is here. Warm temps, strong sunshine, and high freezing levels will trigger a widespread avalanche cycle.

Temps will not drop overnight, increasing the likelihood of major, full-depth avalanches with each hot day.

Avoid all avalanche terrain.

Summary

Confidence

High

Snowpack Summary

The snow surface likely consists of a mix of hard melt-freeze crust and dry snow depending on aspect and elevation. Sun-exposed slopes may undergo daily melting and freezing whereas northerly alpine slopes could remain dry with potential slabs.

The Feb 3rd crust is the dominant mid-pack layer and make reawaken under periods of intense, prolonged warming or rain.

For more spring travel resources, check out the forecasters’ blog.

Weather Summary

For information on mountain weather, please visit the Mountain Weather Forecast on the Avalanche Canada website.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • The likelihood of deep persistent slab avalanches will increase with each day of warm weather.

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs

A major heat wave with no overnight recovery will cause the snowpack to become isothermal. Expect a natural avalanche cycle on the prominent Feb 3 mid-pack crust on all aspects and all elevations that still hold snow. Avalanches may step-down to ground and shed the entire winter's snowpack.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Very Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: May 15th, 2024 4:00PM

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