Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 7th, 2018 4:11PM

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

mconlan, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Recent snowfall with associated strong winds has produced new slabs. Assess the snow carefully before entering into avalanche terrain.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate -

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: Cloudy with light snowfall, accumulation 5 to 10 cm, light southwesterly winds, alpine temperature -3 C, freezing level 1600 m.MONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, light southwesterly winds, alpine temperature -2 C, freezing level 1800 m.TUESDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, alpine temperature 2 C, freezing level 2500 m.

Avalanche Summary

Recently formed slab avalanches were reactive to skier traffic on Friday. See this MIN report for more info and photos. Small loose wet avalanches were also triggered by skiers and naturally.

Snowpack Summary

Around 20 to 30 cm of storm snow fell with strong southeast winds, redistributing it into lee features in exposed terrain. The new snow overlies a thin crust and settled snow from last weekend. A 5 cm thick crust is found around 50 cm deep on all aspects and elevations, except above 1900 m on north slopes.The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Expect to find new slabs from recent snowfall. Expect thicker and more reactive slabs in lee features due to strong south to easterly winds.

Observe for the bond of new snow with the old surface before committing into avalanche terrain.Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind-loaded snow.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Wet

Recent rainfall and warm temperatures at low elevations have weakened the snow surface. Watch out for steep and gullied terrain, where small avalanches can build and have severe consequences.

Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where small avalanches may have severe consequences.Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 8th, 2018 2:00PM