Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 27th, 2017 3:30PM

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

triley, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

Forecast stormy weather will result in elevated avalanche danger. Alpine areas in this region may develop deep storm slabs in the next few days.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Freezing levels are uncertain on Tuesday

Weather Forecast

Overnight: 10-20 mm of precipitation falling as rain up to 1300 metres, combined with moderate southwest winds. Tuesday: Heavy precipitation (30-40 mm) during the day combined with moderate to strong southerly winds and freezing levels near 1400 metres. Wednesday: Another 20-30 mm of precipitation by morning and more during the day, combined with moderate southwest winds and freezing levels reaching 1500 metres. Thursday: A brief ridge of high pressure should bring clear skies and strong solar radiation after the storm.

Avalanche Summary

Loose wet avalanches up to size 1.5 were reported from the Hollyburn area on Monday.

Snowpack Summary

New snow is expected at alpine elevations tonight and tomorrow. Freezing levels are uncertain, so there may be new snow at treeline, or it may be mostly rain. Areas that receive new snow and wind are expected to further develop new storm slabs. Rain soaked snow at lower elevations may fail as loose wet avalanches on steep convex rolls or steep creek banks and cut blocks.

Problems

Storm Slabs

Recent strong winds and steady snowfall have formed storm slabs that increase in depth and reactivity with elevation. Expect deeper slabs and touchier conditions on the lee side of wind exposed terrain features.

Be alert to conditions that change with elevation.Be increasingly cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Loose Wet

Forecast rain at lower elevations may release as loose wet avalanches in steep terrain that is not well supported.

Use conservative route selection, choose moderate angled and supported terrain with low consequence.Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 28th, 2017 2:00PM