Avalanche forecast

Northwest Inland

Mar 31 – Apr 1, 2013Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Be alert to conditions that change with daytime warming. Danger ratings are likely to exceed posted levels if solar radiation is strong.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–6
    Large cornices will likely become weak if the sun is shining. Cornice failures may be destructive by themselves and may also initiate avalanches on the slope below.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–4
    Continued warming will promote deterioration within the upper snowpack. If surface snow becomes moist or wet, loose wet avalanches are likely.

Confidence

Fair - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Monday

Weather Forecast

Monday: High cloud / Moderate southwest winds / Freezing level at 2000mTuesday: Very light snowfall / Moderate west winds / Freezing level at 900mWednesday: Overcast skies / Moderate west winds / Freezing level at 1100m

Avalanche Summary

Numerous loose wet avalanches have occurred from steeper solar aspects up to size 2.0. Size 2 cornice releases have also been noted.

Snowpack Summary

Surface snow has settled with the influence of warm temperatures and surface faceting continues on steep shaded alpine slopes. Solar aspects at all elevations and all lower elevation terrain are now well into a daily melt-freeze cycle with sun-exposed slopes becoming very weak with daytime warming. 30 - 60 cm of snow overlies a crust, old wind slabs or surface hoar layer buried on March 9th. Reports suggest this layer is less reactive, but may still be a concern in some areas. I would still remain conservative and continue to dig and test before diving into my line. Deeper in the snowpack, basal facets may resurface as a concern with forecast warming.Cornices have become well-developed and could easily become unstable during periods of warm weather or direct solar radiation.

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