Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 30th, 2021 3:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Persistent Slabs.
JSmith,
Avalanche Canada
Lingering wind slabs may remain reactive to human triggers on lee features at treeline and above.
Check out the latest Forecasters' Blog for tips on managing the ongoing Persistent Slab problem in this region.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the fact that persistent slabs are particularly difficult to forecast.
Weather Forecast
THURSDAY NIGHT: Partly cloudy / Light west wind / Low of -30
FRIDAY: Sunny / Light north wind / High of -22
SATURDAY: Increasing cloud in afternoon / Moderate northwest wind / High of -19
SUNDAY: Cloudy with flurries; 3-5 cm / Strong southwest wind / High of -11
Avalanche Summary
Natural and skier triggered size 2 wind slabs were reported on Thursday.
Explosive control work on Wednesday produced numerous size 3 wind slab avalanches in the alpine on primarily northwest aspects.
Snowpack Summary
Strong westerly winds have created fresh wind slabs on lee features at treeline and above.
The most notable layer of concern in the snowpack is a crust that was formed in early December and is now down 50-120 cm. Activity on this layer has been sporadic. It has generally been triggered on steep, rocky slopes, with a shallow or thin to thick snowpack.
This layer has created a low likelihood, high consequence scenario which is best managed through conservative terrain choices and disciplined backcountry travel techniques.
Terrain and Travel
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of a persistent slab.
- Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transitions from thick to thin.
- Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Strong westerly winds have created fresh wind slabs on lee features at treeline and above.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Persistent Slabs
A persistent slab problem formed by a crust down 60-100 cm has created a low likelihood, high consequence scenario that is difficult to forecast.
Avoid likely trigger spots such as steep, rocky slopes with a shallow or thin to thick snowpack.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 31st, 2021 3:00PM
