Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 24th, 2023 4:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

Avalanche Canada cgarritty, Avalanche Canada

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Rugged early season coverage remains the primary hazard for snow sports on the Island. A slip, fall, or small wind slab release in steep alpine terrain could have high consequences.

Summary

Confidence

Low

Avalanche Summary

So far this season no avalanches have been reported on the Island. This should stay the same until we see another substantial snowfall.

Alpine climbers looking to extend their season might be the most likely candidates to encounter the limited avalanche hazard that currently exists.

Snowpack Summary

In most areas of the Island where snow coverage exists, a firm crust is likely to be found on the surface. Light amounts (5-10 cm) of dry snow may be found on north-facing terrain at high elevations. Areas like this remain the exception, with snow coverage all over the Island generally remaining thin and patchy, especially at treeline and below.

Snowpack height at treeline currently ranges from less than 20 cm at Mt Arrowsmith to around 50 cm in Strathcona Park to 30 cm at Mt Cain.

Weather Summary

Friday Night: Clear skies. North alpine wind 5-15 km/h.

Saturday: Clear skies. North alpine wind 5-15 km/h. Treeline high temperature 6°C. Freezing level 2500 m.

Sunday: Clear skies. West alpine wind 5-10 km/h. Treeline high temperature 6°C. Freezing level 2700 m.

Monday: Clear skies. South alpine wind 5-10 km/h. Treeline high temperature 6°C. Freezing level 3000 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Expect shallow snow cover that barely covers ground roughness.
  • Avalanche danger is often elevated in alpine gullies where snow has accumulated.
  • Early season avalanches at any elevation have the potential to be particularly dangerous due to obstacles that are exposed or just below the surface.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Deeper patches of wind-drifted snow in steep alpine gullies or on steep rock slab could release with a human trigger.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

1 - 1.5

Valid until: Nov 25th, 2023 4:00PM