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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 16th, 2013–Feb 17th, 2013
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Kootenay Boundary.

Confidence

Fair - Intensity of incoming weather is uncertain

Weather Forecast

Synopsis: A short-lived ridge of high pressure on Sunday is replaced by a weak low pressure system for Monday.Sunday: Dry with a mix of sun and cloud. Winds light northwesterly. Freezing level around 900 m.Monday: Flurries. Winds light westerly. Freezing level around 900 m.Tuesday: Dry. Cloudy. Calm. Freezing level around 900 m.

Avalanche Summary

Small loose snow avalanches were reported on south facing slopes during recent warm weather.

Snowpack Summary

5-15 cm of recent snowfall (possibly a little more near Kokanee Glacier Park) overlies a recent layer of surface hoar buried around Feb 12. We have had some reports this layer contains crystals up to 30mm in some locations. This large size of crystal increases the likelihood this layer will present problems as it becomes more deeply buried. Wind slabs are widespread in exposed areas. Two previous buried surface hoar/facet/sun crust layers from Feb 4th and Jan 23 are still being tracked by professionals but have not been reactive recently. They can be found approximately 30 cm and 50 cm below the surface, respectively. These layers may be worth investigating on a safe but representative adjacent slope if you are considering riding in aggressive terrain.

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong winds have loaded lee features on a potentially weak interface.
Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.>Highmark or enter your line well below ridge crests to avoid wind loaded pillows.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 4

Storm Slabs

A reactive weak layer is lightly buried in the upper slab. As more snow arrives, I expect this will become a focus for avalanche activity, especially on unsupported (convex) terrain features.
Watch for whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks or recent avalanches.>Choose well supported terrain without convexities.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3