Avalanche Forecast

TUESDAY NIGHT: Clear skies / Light variable wind / Low of -28

WEDNESDAY: Sunny / Light variable wind / High of -22

THURSDAY: Cloudy with flurries; 3-10 cm / Moderate southeast wind / High of -18

FRIDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Moderate west wind / High of -17

On Monday, numerous natural and explosive triggered wind slab avalanches up to size 3 were reported at treeline and above, on a variety of aspects. 

If you are out in the mountains, let us know what you see by filling out a Mountain Information Network report! ?

Recent, strong northeasterly winds have formed reactive wind slabs on lee features at all elevations.

Freshly formed wind slabs are most likely to be found on south and westerly aspects, but older wind slabs may be found on all aspects. Recently formed wind slabs may remain reactive to human triggers for longer than is typical due to the weak facets (sugary snow) they are sitting on.

The early December rain crust is up to 10cm thick, down 80-150cm in the snowpack, and exists to an average of 1400m in elevation. Up to 2mm facets have been reported above this crust, and it is producing hard but sudden planar results in snowpack tests in areas north of Terrace. 

Avalanches on this weak layer can be best managed by avoiding likely trigger spots such as steep, rocky slopes, with a shallow or thin to thick snowpack.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Be aware of highly variable recent wind loading patterns.
• The best and safest riding will be on slopes that have soft snow without any slab properties.
• Look for signs of instability: whumphing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches.
• Keep your guard up at lower elevations. Wind slab formation has been extensive.