Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Below Treeline
Below Threshold.
Alpine
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Below Treeline
Below Threshold.
Alpine
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Below Treeline
Below Threshold.
Regions
Northwest Coastal.
We are interested in what you are seeing out there. Email us at [email protected].
Confidence
Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain
Weather Forecast
Wednesday: Increasing cloud with with the possibility of light snow starting late in the day, freezing levels near valley bottoms, and associated strong southeasterly winds overnight. Thursday: Light snow tapering off throughout the day primarily in southern coastal areas, freezing level dropping to sea level, and moderate to strong southeasterly winds. Friday: Clear and cold with strong northeasterly winds.
Avalanche Summary
Reports from Monday include a few small 10-20cm deep naturally releasing storm and wind slabs north of Stewart, as well as some sloughing on isolated steep slopes below treeline. We have had no reports from popular recreational spots in the region. Let us know what you are seeing at [email protected].
Snowpack Summary
As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. Early reports suggest there's enough snow for avalanches at alpine and some treeline elevations. Recent snow has likely been redistributed by gusty and variable winds into slabs on lee slopes at alpine and treeline elevations. This snow may overlie a weak old snow surface (surface hoar, facets and/or a crust) which developed during November's dry spell. Check the bond of the snowpack at this level and take a cautious approach as new snow builds deeper above this layer.
Problems
Storm Slabs
Storm Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within new snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slabs typically last between a few hours and few days (following snowfall). Storm-slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.