Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 26th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
zryan,
Avalanche Canada
There have been no recent field observations in this forecast area. Submit a MIN if you head out!
Strong southerly winds have likely formed wind slabs sitting over a weak, facetted base.
Summary
Confidence
Low
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported. There are very few field observations coming from this forecast area. Remember that a lack of avalanche reports does not necessarily mean a lack of avalanche activity.
If you go out in the backcountry, please consider sharing your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).
Snowpack Summary
The snowpack is shallow, faceted and highly wind-affected. Expect scouring on windward slopes and isolated pockets of deep wind slab over facets near ridge crests on leeward slopes. A crust has formed on the surface below treeline.
Several crusts exist in the mid pack. Isolated pockets of buried surface hoar could be found in sheltered terrain.
Average snowpack depths at treeline are highly variable (20 to 70 cm). Many hazards are on or just below the surface.
Weather Summary
Tuesday Night
Clearing. Southwest alpine wind 80 km/h dropping to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level dropping to valley bottom.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud. South alpine wind 20 to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level rising to 2000 m.
Thursday
A mix of sun and cloud. Southwest alpine wind 40 to 60 km/h. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.
Friday
Mainly clear. South alpine wind 20 to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level rising to 2500 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Avoid steep, rocky, and wind effected areas where triggering slabs is more likely.
- Expect shallow snow cover that barely covers ground roughness.
- Avalanche danger is often elevated in alpine gullies where snow has accumulated.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Strong southerly winds may have formed fresh wind slab. Watch for wind loading at ridgetops, and use caution in wind-loaded features or areas with weak basal facets.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 27th, 2023 4:00PM
