Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 22nd, 2017 3:26PM

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

cgarritty, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

Tune in to changing snow conditions as you gain elevation. Reactive pockets of wind slab may be lurking in the lee of exposed terrain features at higher elevations.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Thursday: Cloudy with sunny periods. Winds light from the southwest. Freezing level around 500 metres with alpine temperatures of -4. Friday: Cloudy with flurries bringing about 5 cm of new snow. Winds light from the southeast. Freezing level to 700 metres with alpine temperatures of -2. Saturday: A mix of sun and cloud. Winds light to moderate from the west. Freezing level to 600 metres with alpine temperatures of -2.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported recently. Although the extent of recent wind slab formation is uncertain, the possibility for lingering wind slabs remains a concern. Look for these in immediate lee features on northerly aspects in exposed, high elevation terrain.

Snowpack Summary

At higher elevations, the widespread mid-February rain crust is now down around 30-50 cm. Recent reports suggest the recent snow is well bonded to the crust. Below the crust, the snowpack is likely still moist or wet as a result of the heavy rain from last week. Moderate southerly wind during the storm may have formed wind slabs at ridge crests.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs may still be lingering in high, north facing terrain. Expect slabs to be particularly reactive on steep, unsupported slopes.

Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.Avoid areas where the surface snow feels stiff or slabby.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Feb 23rd, 2017 2:00PM