Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 8th, 2019 4:17PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

kdevine, Avalanche Canada

Cariboos.

Wind slabs are likely to be encountered at upper elevations and may be reactive to human triggering, especially in lee areas.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate -

Weather Forecast

FRIDAY NIGHT - Mainly cloudy with clear periods / northwest winds, 10 km/h / alpine low temperature near -13SATURDAY - A mix of sun and cloud / northwest winds 10-15 km/h / alpine high temperature near -10 SUNDAY - Mainly sunny / southwest winds 10-20 km/h / alpine high temperature near -8MONDAY - Flurries, 5-10 cm / south winds 20-40 km/h / alpine high temperature near -6

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported in the region recently.

Snowpack Summary

5-10 cm of new snow sits mainly on wind slabs and facets (sugary snow), as well as surface hoar (feathery crystals) in sheltered areas and a crust on sun exposed slopes. At lower elevations, a weak layer buried in mid January can be found approximately 50-60 cm deep. This layer consists of surface hoar and facets, and may be combined with a crust on south facing slopes. This layer has been most reactive at treeline and below treeline. Avalanche activity on this layer has dropped off significantly, however it may still be possible to trigger avalanches on this layer in areas such as steep cutblocks, and large open glades in the trees.The lower snowpack is generally considered to be strong, except for shallow, rocky areas where cold temperatures continue to facet (weaken) the snowpack.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs may be found on all aspects and may continue to be reactive due to the weak, faceted snow they sit above. They may be difficult to detect now that they are buried by the new snow.

Increase caution around wind loaded pockets near ridge crests and roll-overs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Mar 9th, 2019 2:00PM