Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 27th, 2021 4:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada TRettie, Avalanche Canada

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Carefully assess the wind slab hazard before committing to a feature and remember that wind slabs are most commonly triggered just below ridge crests.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate -

Weather Forecast

Monday night: low of -28 at 1600m . No new snow is expected. Winds will be moderate to strong from the north west in the alpine.

Tuesday: moderate south winds with the possibility of some light flurries in the morning at treeline. high of -24 at 1600m.

Wednesday: light snow throughout the day with moderate west winds at treeline. high of -25 at 1600m.

Thursday: clearing throughout the day and no new snow expected. winds will be moderate from the northwest with a high of -22 at 1600m.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported over the last few days in the region. If you are out in the mountains please consider filling out a Mountain Information Network report.

Snowpack Summary

Wind direction has varied over the last couple days. Wind slab could be found on all aspects as a result. These new wind slabs will have formed over old hard slab and facets meaning they likely won't bond well. East facing slopes will likely still have signs of scouring.

The December 15 surface hoar layer is 10 to 20cm below the surface in sheltered treeline and below . It is likely not a problem yet

Snowpack depth at treeline typically ranges from 120-220 cm, with higher values in the western part of the region and tapering to the east. 

Terrain and Travel

  • Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.
  • Avoid freshly wind loaded features, especially near ridge crests, roll-overs and in steep terrain.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Winds have varied over the last couple days, wind slab could be found on all aspects as a result. Sensitivity to triggering will be greatest near ridge crests.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Dec 28th, 2021 4:00PM