Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 13th, 2015 8:57AM

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

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Inland.

This bulletin was produced using very few field observations. If you've been out in the mountains, please share your observations on our Mountain Information Network.

Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Expect a mix of sun and cloud and moderate northwesterly winds on Monday. On Monday afternoon and Tuesday, a Pacific front will bring light snowfall (up to 5cm) and strong westerly winds. Generally clear skies and moderate northeasterly winds are forecast for Wednesday. Freezing levels may rise to 500m with the passage of the front. Otherwise, they should remain around valley bottom for the forecast period. For a more detailed weather overview, check-out our Mountain Weather Forecast at: avalanche.ca/weather

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanches have been reported from the region.

Snowpack Summary

A dusting of new snow exists on the surface. Up to 60cm below that, you may find a layer of buried surface hoar, although I'm unsure of the layer's reactivity and spatial distribution. I'd dig down and test for this potentially weak layer before committing to any steep lines, especially on sheltered north facing slopes at tree-line and just below. Recently formed wind slabs are reported to exist at alpine elevations.Lower below tree-line elevations may still be below threshold for avalanches.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Recently formed wind slabs may exist at higher elevations. Watch for triggering in the lee of ridge crests and in gullies.

Use caution in lee areas in the alpine. Recent wind loading has created wind slabs.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

A weak layer of surface hoar may be buried in the upper snowpack, although reports indicate it is spotty in its distribution across the region. Where it exists, I suspect that it may be at a critical depth for human triggered avalanches.

Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.>Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Dec 14th, 2015 2:00PM