Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 28th, 2021 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs, Loose Dry and Deep Persistent Slabs.
Marcus Waring,
Cold temperatures continue to be the primary hazard for backcountry travelers. Be aware that even a small injury or equipment issue may have serious consequences.
Watch out for wind slab in non typical locations.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Wednesday: A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries. Trace precipitation.
Alpine temp: high -21 C.
Wind W: 15 km/h.
Thursday: A mix of sun and cloud. Trace precipitation.
Alpine temp: high -21 C.
Wind NW: 10 km/h
Friday: A mix of sun and cloud.
Alpine high -21
Wind West 10km/h
Snowpack Summary
Variable wind direction continues to build wind slab on exposed terrain features at treeline & above. Expect dry loose avalanches in steep, wind sheltered terrain. The mid-pack is supportive with an exception of a weakening crust interface down 30-40 cm (upto 1950m). Cold temperatures promoting top down facetting through-out the region
Avalanche Summary
Size one dry loose avalanches observed in steep unsupported terrain near weeping wall dec 27.
A size 2 natural wind slab avalanche was noted on the east aspect of Mt. Hilda at approx. 2400m. Estimated date dec 25.
Confidence
Problems
Wind Slabs
Periods of northerly wind over the past week have caused reverse loading in many areas.
- Watch for stiffer feeling snow. Avoid areas that appear wind loaded.
- Variable winds have created pockets of wind slab on all aspects.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Loose Dry
Extra vigilance is warranted in steep terrain, ice climbs, and gully terrain traps where small avalanches can build into larger volumes.
- Avoid travelling on ledges and cliffs where sluffing may have severe consequences.
- Be careful of loose dry sluffing in steep, confined or exposed terrain.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Deep Persistent Slabs
This problem, although increasingly stubborn, persists in isolated alpine terrain and may initiate with a large trigger such as a cornice failure or wind slab avalanche.
- Use caution in thin snowpack areas.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 29th, 2021 4:00PM
