Avalanche forecast

Northwest Inland

Dec 4 – 5, 2023Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low

Highlights

New snowfalls and wind will continue to build small and reactive wind slabs near ridgelines and rollovers. Choose sheltered slopes where the recent snow has not been wind-affected.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Watch for reactive wind slabs in leeward terrain features, such as ridge tops, alpine bowls and gullies. Rider-trigger avalanches are expected to be more likely as the new snow accumulates.

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported, but observations are very limited at this time of year.

If you do go into the backcountry, consider submitting a Mountain Information Network report.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 15 cm of new snow has fallen over the weekend, likely redistributed by strong southerly winds at higher elevations.

The snowpack remains generally shallow, with early-season hazards just below the snow surface. A weak layer of faceted snow may be present at the base of the snowpack.

The height of snow at treeline is approximately 30 to 50 cm.

Weather Summary

A large weather system will move onto the north coast, bringing continued light precipitation and windy conditions to the region. Freezing levels are expected to rise to 1000-1500 m.

Sunday night

Light snow/rain; 5 cm. Moderate southwest ridgetop winds gusting 60 km/h. Treeline temperatures near -4 °C. Freezing levels around 1200 m.

Monday

Light snow/rain; 10-15 cm. Strong southwest ridgetop winds gusting 80 km/h. Treeline temperatures reach -1 °C. Freezing levels rise to 1400 m over the day.

Tuesday

Cloudy, snowfall tapers off. Steady southwesterly winds gusting 80 km/h. Treeline temperatures reach +2 °C. Freezing levels rise to 1500 m.

Wednesday

Cloudy with sunny periods. Moderate southwesterly winds gusting 60 km/h. Treeline temperatures reach -5 °C. Freezing levels at 1000 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Be especially cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.
  • Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
  • Expect shallow snow cover that barely covers ground roughness.

Regions covered