Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 30th, 2018 4:00PM

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

ghelgeson, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

We're working from very few observations. While dirt has reappeared at lower elevations, it is very much winter in the alpine where cornices and wind slabs may remain problematic this weekend. Please let us know what you're seeing on the MIN!

Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

We are transitioning into a period of pronounced high pressure. The forecast period is marked by cooler temps, clear skies and no significant precipitation, even in the extended forecast.FRIDAY NIGHT: Freezing level around 1100 m, light southerly wind, a trace of snow possible. SATURDAY: A few clouds, freezing level around 1200 m, light northeast wind, no significant precipitation expected.SUNDAY: Clear skies, freezing level around 800 m, light northeast wind, no significant precipitation expected.MONDAY: Clear skies, freezing level around 800 m, light east wind, no significant precipitation expected.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches have been reported. Please submit any observations you have to the Mountain Information Network here.

Snowpack Summary

Monday and Tuesday's storm produced over 200 mm of precipitation that mostly fell as rain. Winds were extreme out of the south/southwest. Cornices likely formed on many ridgelines.Alpine areas near Squamish have the most snow, with around 70 cm of settled snow on the ground. In the alpine, there may be a crust lower in the snowpack. It is thought that there is insufficient snow for avalanches below 1500 m.

Problems

Cornices

Cornices have likely formed on alpine ridgelines. Cornices are typically most prone to failure during times of transition. Now is one of those times as we enter a colder period.

Be wary of traveling on slopes that are exposed to cornices overhead.Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.Stay well back from cornices when traveling on ridgelines.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

If there's any good riding/travel to be had, it's going to be in the alpine. This is also where you're most likely to find wind slabs that may be sensitive to human triggering.

Be cautious around mid-slope terrain features like ridges and ribs where slabs may be deeper.The deepest slabs will be found immediately lee of ridge-crest.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 1st, 2018 2:00PM