Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 2nd, 2016 7:07AM

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

esharp, Avalanche Canada

Sea To Sky.

Strong winds will probably make the alpine an unpleasant place to be on Thursday. Watch out for overhead exposure if you end up hiding out at treeline. Natural avalanches will become increasingly likely through the day.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Timing of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Friday

Weather Forecast

THURSDAY: 10-20cm of new snow overnight with another 5-15cm through the day, moderate to strong southwest winds, 1500m freezing level. FRIDAY: heavy snow with accumulations of up to 25cm, strong southerly winds, 1800m freezing level. SATURDAY: Heavy snow continues, strong south winds, Â 1700m freezing level

Avalanche Summary

Natural and artificially triggered avalanche activity was reported from across the region on Wednesday.Â Cornices remain large and fragile and would likely collapse under the weight of a person.

Snowpack Summary

Between 40 and 80cm of new snow and strong winds have formed reactive soft slabs in steep, open, and unsupported alpine and treeline features. The upper snowpack sits on a widespread crust on all but high elevation north facing slopes. Cornices are large and weak.Â The mid-pack is generally well settled.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Avalanches are likely on steep, unsupported, or wind loaded features. Watch for signs of instability like blowing snow, shooting cracks or natural avalanche activity.

Minimize overhead exposure; avalanches triggered by windloading may reach run out zones.>Avoid steep, open slopes.>Be careful with wind loaded pockets >

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely - Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Mar 3rd, 2016 2:00PM