Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 13th, 2019 5:01PM

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

Avalanche Canada kdevine, Avalanche Canada

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Storm slabs may be reactive to human triggering, especially in wind loaded areas, and on steep, sun exposed slopes if the sun comes out.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate -

Weather Forecast

WEDNESDAY NIGHT - Cloudy with clear periods / southwest wind, 10-20 km/h / alpine low temperature near -10THURSDAY - Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries / southwest wind, 20-40 km/h / alpine high temperature near -7 / freezing level 1300 mFRIDAY - Cloudy with sunny periods / southwest winds 15-40 km/h / alpine high temperature near -6 / freezing level 1400 mSATURDAY - A mix of sun and cloud / southwest winds, 15-40 km/h / alpine high temperature near -6 / freezing level 1700 m

Avalanche Summary

On Tuesday, there were reports of several human triggered avalanches up to size 2. A few of these were triggered remotely (from a distance). There were also several reports of natural storm slab avalanches up to size 3. These avalanches occurred on all aspects and at all elevation bands.

Snowpack Summary

20-50 cm of recent storm snow sits mainly on facets (sugary snow), as well as surface hoar (feathery crystals) in sheltered areas and a crust on sun exposed slopes. At lower elevations, a weak layer buried in mid January can be found approximately 50-90 cm deep. This layer consists of surface hoar and facets, and may be combined with a crust on south facing slopes. This layer has been most reactive at treeline and below. Avalanche activity has dropped off significantly, however it may still be possible to trigger avalanches on this layer in areas such as steep cutblocks, and large open glades in the trees.The lower snowpack is generally considered to be strong, except for shallow, rocky areas where cold temperatures continue to facet (weaken) the snowpack.

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs
20-50 cm of recent storm snow fell with moderate to strong southwest winds. Storm slabs may continue to be reactive, especially in wind loaded areas.
Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.Watch for whumpfing, hollow sounds, and shooting cracks.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 14th, 2019 2:00PM

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