Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 2nd, 2025 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
Avalanche Canada,
Avalanche Canada
Plan to maintain a high level of awareness, carefully observing and continuously assessing conditions as you navigate the terrain.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Few loose dry avalanches out of steep alpine and treeline terrain were observed in the Elk Valley on Tuesday.
If you head out in the backcountry, let us know what you are seeing by submitting a MIN report!
Snowpack Summary
Recent snow accumulations vary across the region from 10 to 20 cm. The previous SW wind has formed firm, wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations in the east part of the region, while the surface snow is mostly unconsolidated in the west part of the region.
See the conditions from north of Sparwood here.
At lower elevations, the upper snowpack contains a melt-freeze crust and facets layer, particularly in south-facing terrain.
Snowpack depth varies significantly across the region, from 50 to over 150 cm.
Weather Summary
Thursday Night
Overcast with light snowfall 1 to 2 cm. 10 to 15 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.
Friday
Cloudy with snowfall 2-5 cm. 10 to 25 km/h Northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -14 °C.
Saturday
Cloudy with light snowfall 1 to 2 cm. 15 to 25 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Sunday
Cloudy with light snowfall 1 to 2 cm. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.
- Be careful with wind-loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and rollovers.
- Pay attention to the wind; once it starts to blow, sensitive wind slabs are likely to form.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind will transport fresh snow to create new wind slabs in immediate lee areas.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 3rd, 2025 4:00PM
