Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Mar 29th, 2024 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Loose Wet and Wind Slabs.
wlewis,
Avalanche Canada
Watch for changing conditions as you shift aspect and elevation.
Reactivity remains in wind affected areas, while sunshine may produce wet avalanche activity on south facing slopes.
Summary
Confidence
High
Avalanche Summary
On Thursday slabs up to size 2 were produced within the storm snow from explosive control work. Riders produced size 1-1.5 slabs.
Reactivity is expected to linger in wind affected features moving forward and on south facing slopes in areas that see strong sunshine.
Snowpack Summary
15-25 cm of recent snow has fallen above a widespread crust present below 2000 m. At treeline and above, winds have created deeper deposits on north and east facing slopes. Surface snow may become moist on steep sun affected slopes.
The facet/crust layer that produced large avalanches during early March is buried 150-250 cm deep, and is now considered unreactive.
Weather Summary
Friday Night
Mostly clear skies with no snow expected. 10 km/h northerly ridgetop wind. Freezing levels remain around 1500 m near Squamish and other coastal areas, and may drop to 800 m near Whistler.
Saturday
A mix of sun and cloud. 15-30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.
Sunday
Mostly sunny. 40-60 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Freezing level rises to 3000 m by afternoon, raising treeline temperatures to +10 °C.
Monday
Freezing levels remain around 3000 m overnight and throughout Monday. 40-60 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperatures to +10 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Wind slabs may be poorly bonded to the underlying crust.
- Minimize exposure to sun-exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
- Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
Problems
Loose Wet
Loose wet avalanches are most likely on steep, sun affected slopes. Avalanches may initiate easily on the smooth crust below.
Aspects: South East, South, South West, West.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wind Slabs
Wind slabs can be found at higher elevations. Expect reactivity as slabs sit over a crust.
Aspects: North, North East, East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Mar 30th, 2024 4:00PM
