Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 13th, 2015–Dec 14th, 2015

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

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

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

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: South Coast.

Thanks to all the great folks who have shared their field observations on our Mountain Information Network!

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations on Sunday

Weather Forecast

A mix of sun and cloud is expected for the forecast period, although light flurries are possible on Tuesday. Ridge top winds should remain generally light and northwesterly with freezing levels hovering between 500m and 800m. For a more detailed weather overview, check-out the Mountain Weather Forecast at: avalanche.ca/weather

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches were reported on Saturday or Sunday. This likely speaks to a lack of observations rather than actual conditions. I'm sure there was a round of natural storm slab activity in response to new snow and wind on Saturday. If you have any observations to share, please consider trying our Mountain Information Network.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 25cm of new snow has be shifted by southerly winds into deeper and potentially reactive storm slabs in lee terrain. At lower elevations, reports suggest there is much less wind effect and therefore less cohesion in the newly formed slab. A hard rain crust can be found in the upper snowpack up to the 2200m elevation. Recent tests suggest an improving bond at this interface; however, I'd dig and test this layer before committing to any steeper lines.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Natural activity has tapered-off, but human-triggered storm slab avalanches remain a concern, especially in high elevation lee terrain. I'd give the snowpack a few days to adjust to the load of the new snow before pushing into any steep alpine lines.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Stay off recent wind loaded areas until the slope has had a chance to stabilize.>Be alert to conditions that change with elevation.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 3