Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 14th, 2014 10:47AM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Cornices.

jlammers, Avalanche Canada

Sea To Sky.

This bulletin has been produced using very limited field data. If you've been out in the mountains we'd love to hear about what you've seen. Observations can be sent to forecaster@avalanche.ca

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

Tuesday: Very light snowfall / Light to moderate southwest winds / Freezing level at 1400mWednesday: Mix of sun and cloud / Light and variable winds / Freezing level at 1600mThursday: Moderate snowfall / Moderate to strong southwest winds / Freezing level at 1800m

Avalanche Summary

Over the weekend several cornice collapses were reported including a size 3 release on Forger Peak in Garibaldi Park. In the Rutherford area a few size 2.5 cornice releases triggered slab avalanches in steep terrain to size 2. I expect a significant drop in solar-induced activity with forecast weather on Tuesday.

Snowpack Summary

A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m and to mountain top on previously sun-exposed slopes. Dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.The deep and destructive early February facet/crust layer is now close to 200 cm below the surface. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar, especially when freezing levels are high and the sun is shining.

Problems

Cornices

Several large natural cornice failures were observed over the weekend. Although less likely with the cooling trend, cornice fall has the potential to be highly destructive.

Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices.>Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.>

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Apr 15th, 2014 2:00PM