Avalanche Forecast

High

• We have a good understanding of the snowpack structure and confidence in the weather forecast.

No new avalanches have been observed or reported.

If you head into the backcountry, thanks for sharing your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).

On north aspects, 2 to 10 cm of dry snow rest on a widespread melt-freeze crust 3 to 5 cm thick. On other aspects, the surface snow (2 to 10 cm) has warmed under the effect of the sun and has begun a melt-freeze cycle.

Below treeline, the snowpack is largely isothermal.

At mid-mountain elevations, the average snow depth is approximately 125 cm.

WEATHER FOR THE CHIC-CHOCS RIDGES AND PEAKS

Cloud cover will increase on Thursday as a low-pressure system passes south of Nova Scotia, strengthening northerly winds.

Wednesday evening and night: Partly cloudy. Southeast wind at 5 to 20 km/h. Low of -6 °C. Freezing level in the valley.

Thursday: A mix of sun and cloud. Snow beginning in the evening, with accumulations of 2 to 5 cm. North wind at 10 to 30 km/h. High of 1 °C. Freezing level at 700 m.

Friday: Snow, with accumulations of around 5 cm. Northeast wind at 30 to 50 km/h. High of 0 °C. Freezing level at 700 m.

Saturday: Cloudy. North wind at 20 to 40 km/h. High of 2 °C. Freezing level at 800 m.

For more details, see the Chic-Chocs alpine weather forecast.

• Although avalanches are unlikely when a hard crust exists on the snow surface, the crust may pose a slip and fall hazard.
• A moist or wet snow surface, pinwheeling, and natural avalanches are all indicators of a weakening snowpack.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.