Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 8th, 2013 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs and Persistent Slabs.
conrad janzen,
Avalanche Canada
Cold temperatures continue to be the major factor affecting the snowpack. Overall the snowpack is relatively weak and shallow with deep basal facets. Early season hazards such as stumps and rocks are near the surface and careful travel is advised.
Summary
Weather Forecast
The cold temperatures are beginning to moderate however they remain in the low teens for the next couple of days with Moderate NW winds. A few more clouds and some light flurries are expected by Tuesday but still little in the way of snow accumulation.
Snowpack Summary
The snowpack is generally weak, facetted and shallow with little recent changes due to the cold temperatures. 60-70cm of snow exists at tree line.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanche activity observed in the last several days.
Confidence
Problems
Wind Slabs
In the alpine some small wind slabs from previous strong winds may be present.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.
- Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South, South West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Persistent Slabs
The main weaknesses in the snowpack continue to be the basal facets and the October 27th melt freeze crust. No recent failures on these layers have been observed however the potential for full depth releases still exists in some alpine locations.
- Be aware of the potential for full depth avalanches due to deeply buried weak layers.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 9th, 2013 4:00PM
