Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 20th, 2024 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Storm Slabs.

Avalanche Canada wlewis, Avalanche Canada

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Watch for signs of instability as you travel - new snow may not bond well with the crust below.

South of Hope may see higher accumulations and more reactive conditions.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported however observations are very limited. With storm snow and wind forecast, potential increases for slab avalanches to occur on Sunday.

If you have any recent photos or observations, please submit them to the Mountain Information Network.

Snowpack Summary

By Sunday afternoon 10-20 cm of storm snow may have fallen in many areas, overlying a widespread crust except for on high north facing slopes. The bond between old and new snow may be poor, creating reactive conditions. Deeper and more reactive deposits can likely be found near ridglines, on north and east facing slopes.

Below treeline terrain has low snow cover, this storm snow will not change that. Travel conditions are challenging with exposed (or barely hidden) rocks, stumps, and open creeks.

Weather Summary

Saturday Night

Cloudy with rain turning to snow, up to 20 cm possible south of Hope. 10 cm likely elsewhere. 60-70 km/h southwest wind. Freezing level drops to 1000 m by morning.

Sunday

Cloudy with another 5-10 cm of snow possible over the day. 30-40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1500 m.

Monday

Mostly clear skies with 10-20 km/h northwest winds. Freezing levels rises to 2000 m. Treeline temperature around +2 °C.

Tuesday

A mix of sun and cloud. 20-30 km/h southwest wind. Freezing level remains around 2000 m. Treeline temperature around +2 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
  • Keep in mind the crust offers an excellent bed surface for avalanches.
  • Be especially cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs

Storm snow may slide easily on the crust below. Avoid steep or consequential features until the new snow has had time to bond. Greatest reactivity is expected in wind affected features.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 21st, 2024 4:00PM