Avalanche Forecast
Regions: North Okanagan, Shuswap, South Okanagan.
Manage your terrain choices during period of sun and warming temperatures.
Expect the chance of triggering an avalanche to increase on solar aspects.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
On Monday a small (size 1) slab avalanche was skier-controlled on an east aspect at treeline. On Sunday a snowmobiler triggered a large (size 2) slab avalanche near Mt. Tod. Check out the MIN report here. On Saturday 1 small (size 1) natural avalanche was reported near Vernon in steep unsupported terrain. On Friday many small to large (size 1 to 2) wind slab avalanches were triggered by explosive control work in the region.
Snowpack Summary
35 to 50 cm of snow overlies a supportive crust.
Two weak layers of surface hoar and/or faceted grains associated with a crust from late January and mid-February may be found 80 to 100 cm deep.
The mid and lower snowpack is well settled and strong.
Weather Summary
Tuesday night
Partly cloudy. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and cloud. 30 to 50 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Thursday
Cloudy with 2 to 5 cm of snow. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop winds. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Friday
Cloudy. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Even brief periods of direct sun could produce natural avalanches.
- Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.
- Investigate the bond of the recent snow before committing to your line.
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
Avalanche Problems
Storm Slabs
Storm slabs are beginning to bond. Wind slabs have formed on north aspect terrain near ridge crests. Expect the likelihood of avalanches to increase with exposure to sun.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2