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Avalanche Forecast

Mar 11th, 2021–Mar 12th, 2021
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate
Below Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: South Coast Inland.

Lingering wind slabs remain a concern at upper elevations, especially on northerly aspects. Watch for denser, deeper drifts near ridge-crests and rollovers.

Confidence

Moderate - Confidence is due to a stable weather pattern with little change expected.

Weather Forecast

THURSDAY NIGHT - Clear with cloudy periods / moderate west wind / alpine low temperature near -5 

FRIDAY - A mix of sun and cloud / light to moderate west wind / alpine high temperature near -1 / freezing level 1600 m

SATURDAY - Mainly sunny / moderate to strong south wind / alpine high temperature near 1 / freezing level 2500 m

SUNDAY - Mainly sunny / moderate to strong south wind / alpine high temperature near 0 / freezing level 2400 m

Avalanche Summary

Wind slabs may still be possible to trigger, particularly on northerly aspects in the alpine. Large cornices remain a concern, especially during the heat of the day.

There was one size 1.5 cornice reported on Wednesday and a few reports of small dry loose avalanches on Monday in the north of the region.

Snowpack Summary

Wind slabs can be found on leeward slopes at upper elevations and may still be possible to trigger. Solar aspects likely have a crust on the surface, and soft, dry snow can likely be found in sheltered, shaded areas. Massive cornices exist on ridgelines, which can also act as triggers on slopes below. 

In the north of the region, a weak layer of facets buried in mid-February may still be found on north aspects near treeline but has been gaining strength. The lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong.

In the south of the region, the mid and lower snowpack is generally well consolidated with no concerns of buried weak layers. 

Terrain and Travel

  • Avoid freshly wind loaded features, especially near ridge crests, roll-overs and in steep terrain.
  • Back off if you encounter whumpfing, hollow sounds, or shooting cracks.
  • Minimize your exposure time below cornices.
  • Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Pay attention to the pattern of wind-drifting in the terrain where you are traveling and watch for cracking or changes in snow stiffness. 

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2