Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 16th, 2020 2:00PM

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

Avalanche Canada Mikey, Avalanche Canada

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Be on the lookout for wind effect in the alpine, otherwise good skiing in most areas.

Summary

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

Monday is forecast to bring a mix of sun and cloud with light to moderate winds from the West. Temperatures will rise to -10c.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were observed.

Snowpack Summary

There is up to 25cm of recent snow in Alpine areas. Winds have been variable for the last couple of days, so be on the lookout for wind slabs as you transition into the Alpine, especially lee features and cross loaded gullies. The Alpine just needs a bit more time to let those new wind slabs bond. We are approaching the time of year where the sun is strong, especially on solar aspects. The November crust/facet layer that makes up the bottom 40cm of the snow pack is still on our radar and could be triggered from thin areas or by large loads.

Terrain and Travel

  • Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.
  • Avoid travelling on slopes below cornices.
  • Avalanche hazard may have improved, but be mindful that deep instabilities are still present.

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs

Windslabs up to 30cm thick should be expected in alpine areas. Due to the variable winds of late, these slabs are being observed on all aspects. 

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1.5 - 2.5

Deep Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Deep Persistent Slabs

The weak basal layers are still a concern. 

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1.5 - 3.5

Valid until: Feb 17th, 2020 4:00PM

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