Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 22nd, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
wlewis,
Avalanche Canada
Watch for fresh wind slabs forming as snowfall increases over the day.
Head to sheltered terrain at treeline to avoid old and new slabs
Summary
Confidence
Avalanche Summary
On Wednesday size 1 natural wind slabs were reported from north facing alpine slopes, during active wind loading. Slabs may remain reactive to human triggers.
If you do go into the backcountry, consider submitting a Mountain Information Network report.
Snowpack Summary
Storm snow from last week has been redistributed into north and east facing alpine and treeline features. West and south facing slopes (windward), have been scoured by the strong winds or have dense, wind packed snow.
Below 1200 m, a thick crust is present approximately 50 cm above the ground. This crust is well bonded to the snow around it.
The middle and lower snowpack is reported to be well settled and bonded. Snow depth varies from 75-200 cm through this region.
Weather Summary
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy with 1-3 cm of snow, southwest winds 20 to 30 km/h.
Saturday
Cloudy with 10 cm of snow possible, southwest winds 40-80 km/h, treeline temperature -7 °C.
Snowfall intensifies overnight with 20 cm expected.
Sunday
Cloudy with 5-15 cm of snow. Southerly winds 50-70 km/h. Treeline temperatures rise to -3 °C.
Monday
Cloudy with 5-10 of snow. Southerly winds 50-70 km/h. Treeline temperatures -3 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Wind slabs are most reactive during their formation.
- Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind slabs formed on Wednesday may be more stubborn to human triggers, while fresh snow and wind on Friday are likely to form small but reactive slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 23rd, 2023 4:00PM
