Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 15th, 2013 9:48AM

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

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Due to variable weather conditions for the entire period

Weather Forecast

Mainly clear skies are expected until Friday. Winds are forecast to be strong from the northwest. Freezing levels are forecast to rise to about 1100m each day with the possibility of temperature inversions throughout the period.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported from the region.

Snowpack Summary

Recent winds have formed thin windslabs in open alpine and treeline features.Under this new wind slab ~65cm of settled snow rests on the January 4th interface which consists of small facets, surface hoar (up to 12mm) in sheltered treeline and below treeline areas, and a sun crust on steep solar aspects. The layer is still reactive in test pits, but has not been reactive to human triggering in recent days.The midpack is well bonded and strong. The November 28 surface hoar is still being found in isolated, sheltered below treeline locations buried 120cm. The deep crust/facet combo from early November still exists but seams to be dormant for the time being.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Watch for new wind slab formation in exposed terrain in both the alpine and treeline elevation bands.

Avoid travelling in areas that have been reverse loaded by winds.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Persistent Slabs

This layer may increase in reactivity at higher elevations with forecast inversions. Slopes that didn't slide during the last cycle are of particular concern. Make conservative terrain choices, particularly if significant warming develops.

Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of buried persistent weak layers.>Use caution on steep and unsupported slopes, particularly with forecast warming.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 5

Valid until: Jan 16th, 2013 2:00PM