Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 28th, 2017 3:45PM

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

shorton, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

20-30 cm of new snow with strong southwest winds will elevate the avalanche danger on Sunday.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: Snow starting mid-morning with 20-30 cm by the afternoon, strong southwest winds, freezing level dropping to 1200 m.MONDAY: Cloudy, light west winds, freezing level dropping to 800 m with alpine temperatures around -2 C.TUESDAY: Cloudy with sunny periods, light west winds, alpine temperatures around -4 C.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported. Storm slab avalanches will become reactive throughout the day on Sunday, particularly on wind loaded slopes.

Snowpack Summary

A midday storm will deliver 20-30 cm of new snow by Sunday afternoon. Expect thicker and touchier storm slabs to develop on north and east facing wind loaded features. The new snow may bond poorly to sun crusts on steep south facing slopes. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Expect widespread reactive storm slabs with 20-30 cm of new snow and strong southwest winds. Take extra caution in wind affected terrain and avoid terrain traps such as cliffs and gullies.

Use caution around ledges and cliffs where small avalanches may have severe consequences.Use caution in lee areas in the alpine and treeline. Storm snow is forming touchy slabs.Avoid freshly wind loaded features.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Jan 29th, 2017 2:00PM