Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 1st, 2024 3:30PM

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

Avalanche Canada JMackenzie, Avalanche Canada

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The dry range isnt dry this year! Think about overhead terrain and solar input while climbing. Wind slabs may be encountered along ridgelines and along the routes you are choosing so make an evaluation before moving into the terrain. Consider avalanche gear on routes affected by avalanche terrain. Post conditions and what you are seeing to the MIN!

Summary

Confidence

Low

Avalanche Summary

Field observations from the Ghost are limited so please post what you are seeing on the MIN

Snowpack Summary

Recent snowfalls have added up to 20cm of new snow in the past several days. Strong northerly winds have redistributed much of this snow, and wind slabs are found at upper elevations especially in gully features and near ridge crests. This new snow may also generate some rockfall when the sun comes out. In general, the Ghost region this year has more snow than normal and avalanches should be at the forefront of climbers minds in this region. Steep thin rocky areas will warm up fast under the influence of solar radiation and can trigger deep avalanches

Weather Summary

Tuesday will be warm with a mix of sun and cloud. Beginning on Wednesday another wave of precip is expected, starting with rain Wednesday and 10-15cm of snow on Thursday.

Be aware that when the sun does come out it packs a punch at this time of year and snow stability will quickly deteriorate on the solar aspects. Thin cloud can also lead to a "Greenhouse Effect" that can make the upper snowpack moist and unstable. Lots going on in Spring!

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • The more the snowpack warms-up and weakens, the more conservative you`ll want to be with your terrain selection.
  • Ice climbers should be equipped with avalanche safety gear.
  • Recent wind has varied in direction so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Variable wind directions will put slabs on all aspects, and primarily in immediate lee areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs

Facets near the base of the snowpack may be triggered from thin areas. On the solar aspects, full depth avalanches are possible as slopes heat up through the day. Low probability -high consequence avalanches should be in your mind.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1.5 - 3

Valid until: Apr 4th, 2024 3:00PM

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