Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 31st, 2013 9:29AM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Loose Wet and Cornices.

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Inland.

Be alert to conditions that change with daytime warming. Danger ratings are likely to exceed posted levels if solar radiation is strong.

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Monday

Weather Forecast

Monday: High cloud / Moderate southwest winds / Freezing level at 2000mTuesday: Very light snowfall / Moderate west winds / Freezing level at 900mWednesday: Overcast skies / Moderate west winds / Freezing level at 1100m

Avalanche Summary

Numerous loose wet avalanches have occurred from steeper solar aspects up to size 2.0. Size 2 cornice releases have also been noted.

Snowpack Summary

Surface snow has settled with the influence of warm temperatures and surface faceting continues on steep shaded alpine slopes. Solar aspects at all elevations and all lower elevation terrain are now well into a daily melt-freeze cycle with sun-exposed slopes becoming very weak with daytime warming. 30 - 60 cm of snow overlies a crust, old wind slabs or surface hoar layer buried on March 9th. Reports suggest this layer is less reactive, but may still be a concern in some areas. I would still remain conservative and continue to dig and test before diving into my line. Deeper in the snowpack, basal facets may resurface as a concern with forecast warming.Cornices have become well-developed and could easily become unstable during periods of warm weather or direct solar radiation.

Problems

Loose Wet

Continued warming will promote deterioration within the upper snowpack. If surface snow becomes moist or wet, loose wet avalanches are likely.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.>

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Cornices

Large cornices will likely become weak if the sun is shining. Cornice failures may be destructive by themselves and may also initiate avalanches on the slope below.

Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes.>Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.>

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 6

Valid until: Apr 1st, 2013 2:00PM