Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 9th, 2015 8:00AM

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

esharp, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

The storm continues! Conditions are improving but don't let your guard down just yet.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Saturday

Weather Forecast

This weather pattern is the gift that keeps on giving for the South Coast. THURSDAY: up to 10cm new snow, moderate south winds, freezing level at 1000m. FRIDAY: clear, moderate easterly winds, freezing level at 1000m. SATURDAY: another5-15cm, strong south winds, freezing level at 1000m.

Avalanche Summary

A widespread avalanche cycle is being reported as a series of storms pummels the coast range.

Snowpack Summary

As much as 100cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations since the weekend. At lower elevations heavy rain on Tuesday probably formed a new crust that is now buried as deep as 30cm. Strong southerly winds have loaded lee features at ridge-top. The new snow is sitting on a supportive mid-pack in the Duffy whereas pre-storm reports from the Coquihalla described a shallower early season snowpack. Below tree-line snow depths are probably still below threshold for avalanches although I expect we'll be crossing that line soon.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Slab avalanches are still possible, especially in steep unsupported terrain and wind loaded features below 2200m where the new snow maybe sitting on a crust.

If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, do it gradually as you gather information.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Valid until: Dec 10th, 2015 2:00PM