Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 16th, 2019–Feb 17th, 2019

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Coast.

The storm snow needs more time to stabilize. Be cautious around steep slopes and convex terrain features.

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number and quality of field observations

Weather Forecast

SATURDAY NIGHT: Cloudy with clear periods, light north wind, alpine temperatures drop to -6 C.SUNDAY: Sunny with cloudy periods, light northeast wind, alpine high temperatures around -4 C.MONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, light northwest wind, alpine high temperatures around -6 C.TUESDAY: Cloudy with some light flurries, moderate northwest wind, alpine high temperatures around - 6 C.

Avalanche Summary

Widespread avalanche activity was reported on the North Shore mountains on Friday. Ski cutting produced numerous small (size 1) slab avalanches in the top 30 cm of snow, as well a few notable larger avalanches (up to size 2.5). Many of the avalanches showed impressive propagation, with some being triggered remotely (from a distance) and on a few occasions stepping down to a 50 cm deep crust layer (see this MIN report). Evidence of natural activity was also observed when the weather cleared up. Avalanches were most reactive on west and south aspects.

Snowpack Summary

30-50 cm of recent storm snow has not yet bonded to underlying crust layers. Because of the cold temperatures and weak snow around the crusts, storm slabs are expected to take a few more days to strengthen. The lower snowpack is settled and strong.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

30-50 cm thick storm slabs may still be reactive to human triggering.

Choose well supported terrain without convexities.Watch for signs of instability such as whumpfing, or cracking. Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where small avalanches may have severe consequences.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2