Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 3rd, 2016 8:20AM

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

bcorrigan, Avalanche Canada

Cariboos.

Use caution venturing into new terrain, especially at tree line and above.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number and quality of field observations

Weather Forecast

A high pressure ridge will dominate the weather pattern in the interior of BC for the forecast period. The upper level inversion we enjoyed this past week has moved out of the region bringing more seasonal January temperatures. Valley cloud is likely in the morning with cold alpine conditions. Light precipitation with moderate south wind is forecast for the BC interior on Monday and Tuesday, but the timing and amounts are uncertain at this time.

Avalanche Summary

Reports of loose natural avalanches on steep south-facing slopes up to size 1.5 .

Snowpack Summary

The last few days of clear skies, solar radiation, and warm air trapped at higher elevations has settled the recent storm snow. Southerly aspects have seen enough sun and warmth to release loose dry and moist avalanches in steep terrain. Melt-freeze crusts may be encountered on solar aspects. Wind transported snow continues to form thin slabs on variety of aspects. Surface hoar has been reported forming in sheltered locations.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs may still be reactive around tree line and above on slopes that were not affected by the recent warm temperatures and sun. Solar aspects may now have a crust.

Back off if you encounter hard, breakable or drum-like snow.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain. >Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow. >Avoid cross loaded slopes at or above treeline.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Dry

Loose dry avalanche activity may still be observed on high north facing alpine slopes.

Sluffs may trigger deeper instabilities.>Be aware of party members below you that may be exposed to your sluffs. >

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Jan 4th, 2016 2:00PM