Avalanche Forecast

There are limited field observations since the storm. We expect a widespread natural cycle of loose and slab avalanches to have occurred throughout the recent heavy snow and rain.

Natural activity may continue as the storm progresses.

Below 1000 m rainfall has saturated the snowpack. Moist surface snow will most likely remain as rainfall continues at low elevations.

Above 1000m, between 70 and 100 cm of storm snow can be found sitting with higher accumulations towards the west coast. Above 1500 m snow is mostly dry and has been redistributed into deeper deposits on north-facing terrain features by strong southerly winds. Between 1000-1500 m a mix of dry and moist snow can be found.

The storm snow sits over a melt-freeze crust at mid-elevations, and over settling dry snow at high elevations on shaded slopes. The middle and lower snowpack are strong and well-bonded.

Friday Night

Cloudy with snow and rain starting late evening, around 40 cm possible by morning above 800 m. Moderate southwest winds.

Saturday

Snow returns, 30 cm possible. The snow line is likely to be around 800 m in the morning but raises to near 1500 m by the afternoon when precipitation will likely be wet snow or rain except for the higher peaks. Strong to extreme southwest winds.

Sunday

Heavy snowfall is expected, around 80 cm is possible above 1000 m. Strong to extreme southerly winds.

Monday

Cloudy with light southwest winds. No snowfall is expected. Freezing levels around 1000 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Don't be too cavalier with decision making, storm slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.
• Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
• Avoid all avalanche terrain during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind, or rain.