Avalanche forecast

South Okanagan

Feb 12 – 13, 2025Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low

Highlights

While the snowpack is generally stable and conditions are great for riding, be mindful of wind slabs at higher elevations and loose snow avalanches on steep slopes unaffected by wind.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely - Possible
    Size
    1–2

    New and old wind slabs may remain reactive in steep, exposed terrain at higher elevations, particularly with a generally weak, faceted upper snowpack below.

Snowpack Summary

Surface hoar growth continues, along with the faceting of the upper snowpack with cold, clear, and dry weather. Variable wind-affected surfaces exist in exposed terrain, while soft, low-density snow exists elsewhere.

The upper snowpack is largely faceted with a chance of weak surface hoar layers in terrain sheltered from wind and sun at treeline and below and various sun crusts on south-facing slopes.

The mid and lower snowpack is strong and bonded.

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanche activity has been reported.

If you do head into the backcountry consider submitting a MIN post.

Weather Summary

Tuesday Night

Clear skies. 20 to 30 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -18 °C.

Wednesday

Sunny. 10 to 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -14 °C.

Thursday

Mostly sunny. 20 to 30 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

Friday

Mostly sunny. 10 to 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.
  • Seek out sheltered terrain where new snow hasn't been affected by wind.
  • Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.

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