Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Northwest Inland.
Confidence
Poor - Due to limited field observations
Weather Forecast
Wednesday: Light NW winds. Alpine temp -7. Light to moderate snow beginning late in the day.Thursday: Strong to gale W winds. Alpine temp -8. Moderate snow.Friday: Light S winds. Alpine temp -8. Moderate snow.
Avalanche Summary
Strong W-NW winds triggered a natural avalanche cycle on Sunday, with several slabs to size 2 failing behind cross-loaded ribs and gullies. A size 2.5 slab from the headwall above the Hankin-Evelyn area is suspected to have failed on the Nov crust/facet layer. We have no reports of avalanches during Monday nightâs warming, but I wouldnât be surprised if a natural cycle had occurred.
Snowpack Summary
Warm temperatures on Monday night led to upside-down storm snow (dense snow over lighter snow) and rain at low elevations. Wind slabs formed in the last few days may now be buried on a variety of slopes. Â In the upper snowpack, surface hoar is buried at tree line in isolated sheltered areas. A November crust/facet layer near the base of the snowpack has the potential for deep releases. Snow depths are highly variable due to the influence of recent winds.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 5
Deep Persistent Slabs
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible
Expected Size: 2 - 6