Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 18th, 2016 8:16AM

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

Avalanche Canada triley, Avalanche Canada

Forecast new snow and wind are expected to continue to develop storm slabs overnight.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

Moderate snow (5-10 cm) and moderate to strong southwest winds overnight with the freezing level dropping to valley bottoms. Light snow during the day Friday becoming moderate snow in the evening. Snow will be combined with moderate southwest winds and freezing levels rising up to 1200 metres. Flurries or light snow during the day on Saturday with light winds and freezing levels climbing from valley bottoms up to 1200 metres. Mostly clear on Sunday with light winds and freezing levels climbing from valley bottoms up to 1200 metres.

Avalanche Summary

On Wednesday a natural cornice fall resulted in a size 2.0 avalanche.

Snowpack Summary

Moderate southwest winds and 5-10 cm of new snow added to the wind slabs and settling storm snow from the past few days. About 40-60 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a melt freeze crust. This crust exists in most places except for higher elevation shaded terrain. In many areas there seems to be a reasonable bond between the crust and the overlying snow. I'd still keep an eye on this interface as it has become reactive on some features. Surface hoar buried in early January now lies up to 180cm below the surface and has become less of a concern. Possible triggers for this deep and destructive layer include a large cornice fall or significant warming.

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs
Storm slabs may continue to develop with forecast new snow and wind. Dig down and test the bond between the recent storm snow and the buried crust below.
Minimize exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.>Use ridges or ribs to avoid wind loaded terrain.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Feb 19th, 2016 2:00PM