Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 1st, 2016 4:33PM

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

jsmith, Avalanche Canada

South Columbia.

Strong winds and new snow will require cautious route finding and conservative decision making throughout the weekend.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Timing of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

FRIDAY: Snow beginning around mid-day with 10-15 cm snow by Saturday. / Strong westerly winds / Freezing level around 1000 m. SATURDAY: Stormy with 5-10 cm snow / Moderate to strong westerly winds / Freezing level around 900 m. SUNDAY: Mostly cloudy / Moderate northwesterly winds / Freezing level valley bottom.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported in this region on Wednesday. However, observations are still limited.

Snowpack Summary

In the alpine,5-10 cm of new snow has buried old wind slabs. A couple observers have reported small surface hoar forming over the past couple days which is now buried by the new snow. This layer's distribution is not expected to be widespread, though where it does exist, will be especially reactive with the new snow that is expected on Friday and Saturday. The mid-November crust is now down 60-120 cm. This layer has been may become active as the snow load increases. Below the crust the snowpack is generally well settled. Snowpack depths vary greatly throughout the region with an average of 110-190 cm at treeline elevations. Early season hazards such as stumps, rocks, and open creeks remain the primary hazards below treeline.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Strong winds and new snow will create fresh storm slabs that will be especially reactive in the alpine.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Use low consequence slopes to assess the bond of the new snow.Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 2nd, 2016 2:00PM