Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 28th, 2016 3:00PM

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

esharp, Avalanche Canada

Sea To Sky.

Reactive soft slabs can be found in wind loaded areas and steep unsupported slopes.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Wind speed and direction is uncertain on Monday

Weather Forecast

MONDAY: up to 10cm of snow overnight with isolated flurries through the day, light and variable winds, 1200m freezing level. TUESDAY: light snow overnight becoming heavy through the day with accumulations of 20-30cm expected, moderate southerly winds 1500m freezing level. WEDNESDAY: lingering flurries, light westerly winds, 1500m freezing level.

Avalanche Summary

A couple of new size 1-2 wind slabs were triggered naturally and by skiers over the weekend. A natural avalanche cycle is expected to have occurred through the storm on Sunday. Cornices are still large and fragile; they have been reported to be failing naturally and would likely collapse under the weight of a person.

Snowpack Summary

Moderate snowfall and winds have formed fresh soft slabs in the alpine and at treeline. The new snow sits on a crust at treeline and below as well as up to an elevation of about 2200m on aspects that see direct sun. Cornices are large and weak. The midpack is generally well settled.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Moderate winds and new snow have formed fresh slabs, especially in steep and/or lee features in the alpine and at treeline features

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Avoid wind loaded features by travelling on ridges and ribs.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Cornices

Cornices are reported to be large and weak. Several have collapsed recently and the weight of a person may be enough to cause a cornice failure.

Avoid steep slopes below cornices.>Stay well back from cornices.>

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Valid until: Feb 29th, 2016 2:00PM