Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

Several large (size 2) explosive-triggered storm slabs occurred near Whistler on Monday. Additionally, numerous natural and human-triggered wet loose avalanches up to size 2 were reported across the region over the past few days.

We expect both storm slabs and wet loose avalanches will remain a problem on Wednesday, especially during periods of direct sun.

5 to 15 cm of new snow is forecast to fall overnight above 1200 m. This will add to the current 20 to 40 cm of heavy and dense recent snow that has formed storm slabs and continued to build up cornices at upper elevations. The new snow is generally overlying either moist snow or a crust. These storm slabs should gain strength quickly, but may need another day or two to bond. Slabs will be most reactive in wind-loaded terrain at upper elevations. At lower elevations, the snowpack is rain-saturated and thins out quickly.

For a detailed report of the snowpack, check out this excellent MIN post.

Tuesday Night

Cloudy with 5 to 15 cm of snow above 1200 m, possible rain below. 30 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1500 m, dropping to 1000 m.

Wednesday

Partly cloudy, with isolated flurries up to 2 cm. 20 to 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level rising to 1500 m.

Thursday

Cloudy with 10 to 25 cm of snow above 1400 m, possible rain below. 60 to 70 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +1 °C. Freezing level rising to 1700 m.

Friday

A mix of sun and cloud. 15 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level rising to 1400 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Use small, low consequence slopes to test the bond of the new snow.
• Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
• Be alert to conditions that change with aspect and elevation.