Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 9th, 2016 4:41PM

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

jsmith, Avalanche Canada

Lizard-Flathead.

Wind is the major weather factor to keep a close eye on this weekend. Even moderate wind speeds can quickly build fresh wind slabs reactive to human triggers.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Wind speed and direction is uncertain

Weather Forecast

Saturday: Mostly cloudy with flurries and 3-5 cm new snow / Light southwesterly winds / High of -16 C.Sunday: Cloudy with flurries / Light to moderate southwesterly winds / High of -14 C.Monday: Mix of sun and cloud / Light northwesterly winds / High of -16 C.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported in this region on Thursday.

Snowpack Summary

The snow that fell last weekend has seen little wind effect in many areas throughout the region. If winds pick up this weekend, freshly formed wind slabs will be the primary concern. The mid pack is reported to be well settled. There is sufficient snow on the ground for avalanches at treeline and alpine elevations, and possibly in some below treeline locations. Reports suggest typical treeline snow depths are around 110-150 cm, but a report from the east side of region indicated a much lower snow depth of around 90 cm. Limited reports suggest the crust from the middle of November is down 50-80 cm and the crust from early November is down 80-110 cm.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Watch for sings of wind moving the snow around such as snow blowing off of ridges and deep pockets of snow on leeward slopes. Avoid slopes where the snow feels stiff or 'slabby'.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.Use caution when transitioning into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 10th, 2016 2:00PM