Avalanche Forecast

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather off the South Coast remains persistent with a solid southerly flow through tonight and tomorrow. Cooler air and strong wind accompanies this low, keeping freezing levels lower then expected with these frontal systems. Freezing levels will hover around 1200 m then cooling for the remainder of the week. Tonight through Wednesday will see snowfall amounts 20-35 cm. The region will continue to receive light amounts through the rest of the week. Bring on winter!

The region continues to get slammed with snow and wind at upper elevations. No new avalanche observations have been reported, however; I suspect you may see some natural avalanche activity in the alpine and possibly at treeline. Rider triggering, especially on leeward loaded slopes are likely.

Snow depths are variable across the region with the snow line sitting around 1400 m and below threshold for avalanche activity at that elevation. Average snowpack depths at treeline are 60-100 cm with the upper 30-50 cm sitting on a thick crust and solid mid pack. In the alpine snowpack depths are 150 cm plus with the crust down 65 cm. Reports suggest the new snow is sticking to the crust. Forecast strong winds and more snow will likely build touchy wind slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features at higher elevations. When traveling in the mountains Id maintain an investigative approach and dig down to test for weak layers before committing to a slope. If you've been in the mountains, please share your observations on our Mountain Information Network.