Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Feb 8th, 2024 4:00PM
The alpine rating is
, the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating isWatch for unstable snow on steep features, and remember that even a small avalanche can be dangerous.
Ride/hike to the conditions, backcountry travel may be challenging.
Summary
Confidence
High
Avalanche Summary
On Wednesday, a small (size 1), rider-triggered, loose wet avalanche was reported in the Whistler backcountry. It occurred on a west aspect in open terrain at or below treeline.
Also around Whistler, loose dry sluffing was reported in steep, north-facing terrain.
Snowpack Summary
Lingering wind slabs may exist below alpine ridgetops.
Above 1900 m, 10 - 40 cm of recent snow sits on a supportive crust.
Below 1900 m, recent snow amounts taper quickly and the crust increases in thickness.
Where snow still exists below treeline, it is isothermal and travel is very challenging.
Weather Summary
Thursday Night
Cloudy, clearing through the night. No new snow expected. Light variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature around -8 °C. Freezing level falling to valley bottom.
Friday
Mostly sunny. No new snow expected. Light northwest ridgetop wind. Freezing level rising to 1000 m through the day. Treeline high around -6 °C.
Saturday
Mostly cloudy. No new snow expected. Light southwest ridgetop wind. Freezing level falling to valley bottom overnight, and rising back to 1000 m through the day.
Sunday
Cloudy. 5 to 10 cm of snow expected above 750 m. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature around -2 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Even a small avalanche can be harmful if it pushes you into an obstacle or a terrain trap.
- Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.
- Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
- Be alert to conditions that change with elevation and sun exposure.
- When a thick, melt-freeze surface crust is present, avalanche activity is unlikely.
Valid until: Feb 9th, 2024 4:00PM