Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 8th, 2017 4:59PM

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

Avalanche Canada mgrist, Avalanche Canada

Avalanche danger will increase with the incoming storm on Sunday night.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Monday

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: Snow starting in the late afternoon, moderate to strong southeast winds, freezing level dropping to 600 m. MONDAY: 20 cms of new snow by the morning, with an additional 20cms forecast by the end of the day. Moderate southwest winds, freezing level around 600 m. TUESDAY: Sunny with light northeast winds. Freezing level dropping to sea level. Treeline temperatures around -3. WEDESDAY: Sunny with light northerly winds. Freezing level at sea level. Treeline temperatures around -5.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches reported.

Snowpack Summary

New snow (up to 40cms in 24 hours) is expected to arrive starting late Sunday afternoon and will bury the 15 cm of settling snow from Friday's storm. Sustained southerly winds are building small wind slabs on north-facing slopes in the lee of exposed features. Friday's snow buried a variable interface composed of faceted (sugary) snow and old hard wind slabs (especially at higher elevations). Recent reports suggest the snow has bonded fairly well to this interface; however, it remains a concern as a sliding layer during the next storm. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable.

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs
Storm slabs will be touchy during the storm, especially in lee (wind loaded) areas at higher elevations.
Minimize overhead exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind.Use caution above cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Jan 9th, 2017 2:00PM

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