Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 5th, 2013 8:43AM

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

bcorrigan, Avalanche Canada

Sea To Sky.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Arctic air continues to dominate the region as it pushes south. Freezing levels will remain at valley bottom. Temperatures in the alpine are reaching -12 to -15c during the day around 2000 M with alpine temperatures considerably colder. Winds continue from the north light to occasionally moderate. No significant precipitation in the forecast, although there may be some cloud cover with light flurries in the next few days.

Avalanche Summary

Wind slab avalanche activity has recently been observed in the alpine up to size 2. Be suspect of all wind loaded pockets.

Snowpack Summary

Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region. Reports suggest there is 120 to 150cm of snow at tree line elevations. Terrain below tree line is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.The 25-45cm of snow that fell during the last storm is bonding to old surfaces, though much of it has been redistributed by strong northerly winds. Wind slabs are a concern on south-facing terrain.There are crusts buried deeper in the snowpack with facets at higher elevations. Worth looking for it if you are digging a pit.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs at tree line and above are the major concern right now.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Carefully evaluate big terrain features by digging and testing on adjacent, safe slopes.>If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, do it gradually as you gather information.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 6th, 2013 2:00PM