Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 10th, 2014–Feb 11th, 2014

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

4: High

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be high

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Northwest Coastal.

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Tuesday

Weather Forecast

Tuesday: Light snowfall throughout the day becoming heavy through the evening / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at surfaceWednesday: Steady snowfall in the early morning becoming light / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at surfaceThursday: Moderate snowfall / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at 400m

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported, although observations were limited due to blowing snow.

Snowpack Summary

A developing storm slab overlies a medley of old surfaces which include: weak surface facets, surface hoar, thin wind slabs, a scoured crust, or any combination thereof. Strong winds are likely shifting the new snow into stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain. As the new slab develops and gains cohesion, I would expect it to have a poor bond with any of these old surfaces.The mid and lower snowpack are generally strong and well-settled. Basal facets and depth hoar are likely to exist in some parts of the region, but triggering has become unlikely.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

A developing storm slab sits over a variety of potentially weak surfaces. Triggering is most likely in wind-exposed terrain. With more snow on the way, conservative terrain selection will become critical.

The new snow will require several days to settle and stabilize.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Choose conservative lines and watch for clues of instability.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 3