Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 15th, 2011 9:40AM

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

ccampbell, Avalanche Canada

Northwest Coastal.

This bulletin is based on limited data. Local variation in conditions and danger levels are likely to exist. To produce more accurate forecasts, we need information. Please send an email to forecaster@avalanche.ca.

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Due to limited field observationsfor the entire period

Weather Forecast

Wednesday: 20-30cm of new snow with freezing levels around 800m and strong southerly winds.Thursday: Another 5-10cm of new snow expected with freezing levels dropping to valley bottoms and light to moderate southwest winds.Friday: Relatively clear, dry and calm weather is expected.

Avalanche Summary

Recent reports include natural slab avalanches up to 60cm thick triggered by heavy loading during storms. The possibility for natural and human-triggered wind and storm slabs is expected to remain for the forecast period.

Snowpack Summary

Total snowpack depth is around180 cm for most treeline areas and over 2 metres in the alpine. Whumpfing, cracking, and easy shears were found within and under the 40-50cm of recent storm snow. The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong, with an old rain crust near the ground.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Near ridgecrests and terrain breaks, and in cross-loaded gullies.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

2 - 5

Storm Slabs

Steep unsupported slopes.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Nov 16th, 2011 3:00AM