Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 18th, 2018 4:41PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

Avalanche Canada mbender, Avalanche Canada

Another break between storms. Expect to see danger increase again as the next pacific frontal system impacts the region on Thursday.

Summary

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

TUESDAY NIGHT: Rain showers or flurries. Alpine temperature 0. Moderate to strong southwest wind. Freezing level 1200 m.WEDNESDAY: Scattered rain showers or flurries. Alpine temperature 0. Light west wind. Freezing level 1400 mTHURSDAY: Rain, accumulation 30-40 mm. Alpine temperature 2. Moderate to strong southwest wind. Freezing level 1900 m.FRIDAY: Cloudy with sunny breaks. Alpine temperature -4. Light west wind.  Freezing level 500 m.

Avalanche Summary

No new reports of avalanches in the region; however, in the neighbouring Sea to Sky region numerous natural and explosives controlled avalanches have been reported through the last several days. Similar avalanche activity could likely be found at high elevations in the South Coast region.

Snowpack Summary

Recent precipitation has come as rain again resulting in a moist or wet surface snow. The exception is higher elevations near Squamish where dry snow likely exists. For these higher elevation areas, expect to see storm snow from the past few days approaching 100cm with accompanied thick wind deposits in alpine lee terrain. In alpine areas near Squamish, snow depths are now well over 200 cm.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
Hazard is primarily at higher elevations where the new snow has been accumulating. The recent storm on Monday night came with strong winds creating wind slabs in the lee of terrain features.
Be alert to conditions that change with elevation.Watch for signs of instability such as whumpfing, cracking, or recent avalanches.

Aspects: North, North East, East, North West.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Dec 19th, 2018 2:00PM