Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 13th, 2015–Dec 14th, 2015

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

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

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

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

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

Regions: Northwest Coastal.

Significant variability exists in the top 100cm of the snowpack. Dig down and test for weak layers before committing to any steep or exposed lines.

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Expect a mix of sun and cloud and moderate northwesterly winds on Monday. On Monday afternoon and Tuesday, a Pacific front will bring up to 15cm of snow and strong westerly winds. Generally clear skies and moderate northeasterly winds are forecast for Wednesday. Freezing levels may rise to 500m with the passage of the front. Otherwise, they should remain around valley bottom for the forecast period. For a more detailed weather overview, check-out our Mountain Weather Forecast at: avalanche.ca/weather

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported.

Snowpack Summary

Up to a meter of settled snow may be sitting upon a weak layer of buried surface hoar. In some areas, this layer may be primed for human triggering and wide propagations while in other areas it is non-existent or has gained significant strength. Due to the variable nature of this weak layer, I'd dig down to test for it before committing to any steep lines. I'd also be increasingly cautious on sheltered slopes at or below treeline.Strong north through easterly winds have been responsible for a recent reverse-loading pattern, and wind slabs may still be sensitive to human triggering on lee features.

Avalanche Problems

Persistent Slabs

Human triggered avalanches on a layer of buried surface hoar have become less likely. However, avalanches at this interface could be destructive in nature. Dig down and test for this weakness before committing to any steep lines.

Avoid open slopes and convex rolls at and below treeline where buried surface hoar may be preserved.>Carefully evaluate terrain features by digging and testing on adjacent, safe slopes.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 2 - 4

Wind Slabs

Moderate to strong winds have created wind slabs at treeline and in the alpine. Watch for triggering in gullies and in the lee of ridge crests.

Avoid travelling in areas that have been reverse loaded by winds.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3