Wind Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
Small wind slabs may be found at higher elevations, primarily in east facing terrain features (although wind direction has varied recently).
Avalanche forecast
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Nov 27 – 28, 2023Avalanche Canada
Archived · expired 3 years ago
Avalanche danger
Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
Highlights
It's early season conditions with a thinner than usual snowpack. Watch for hazards under the snow like rocks and stumps - and avoid freshly wind loaded slopes around ridgeline.
Avalanche problems
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Small loose dry 'sluffing' has been observed over the last few days.
Observations are limited this time of year, please consider filling out a MIN report.
Snowpack Summary
Expect early season conditions with a shallower than average snowpack, at treeline depths are between 40 and 60 cm. Below treeline snowpack depths taper off quickly.
Recent winds have varied in direction. these winds have scoured some terrain features in the alpine and formed small pockets of wind slab on exposed features.
A crust with facets below exists at or near the ground.
Weather Summary
Sunday Night
Partly cloudy skies with no new snow expected, northwest winds 20 to 40 km/h.
Monday
Partly cloudy skies with no new snow expected, west alpine winds 25 to 40 km/h, possibly gusting to 60 km/hr in the alpine. Treeline temperature -9°C.
Tuesday
Mostly clear skies, winds remain strong at ridgeline, around 50 km/hr. No new snow. Treeline temperatures around -6°C
Wednesday
Partly cloudy with no new snow. Westerly winds ease, 20-30 km/hr.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Be careful with wind slabs, especially in steep, unsupported and/or convex terrain features.
- Small avalanches can have serious consequences in extreme terrain. Carefully evaluate your line for wind slab hazard before you commit to it.