Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 1st, 2016–Dec 2nd, 2016

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

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

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

Regions: North Columbia.

Strong winds and new snow will require cautious route finding and conservative decision making throughout the weekend.

Confidence

Moderate - Timing of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Weather Forecast

FRIDAY: Snow beginning around mid-day with 10-15 cm snow by Saturday. / Strong westerly winds / Freezing level at valley bottom and rising to 1000 m. SATURDAY: Stormy with 5-10 cm snow / Moderate to strong westerly winds / Freezing level around 1000 m. SUNDAY: Mostly cloudy / Moderate northwesterly winds / Freezing level valley bottom.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported on Wednesday, however, there is currently very limited data for this region. Please report your observations to the Mountain Information Network (MIN).

Snowpack Summary

In the alpine,10-15 cm of new snow has buried old wind slabs. A couple observers have reported small surface hoar forming over the past couple days which is now buried by the new snow. This layer's distribution is not expected to be widespread, though where it does exist, will be especially reactive with the new snow that is expected on Friday and Saturday. The mid-November crust is now down 80-150 cm. This layer has been may become active as the snow load increases. Below the crust the snowpack is generally well settled. Snowpack depths vary greatly throughout the region with an average of 130-200 cm at treeline elevations. Early season hazards such as stumps, rocks, and open creeks remain the primary hazards below treeline.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Strong winds and new snow will create fresh storm slabs that will be especially reactive in the alpine.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Use low consequence slopes to assess the bond of the new snow.Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Likely

Expected Size: 1 - 2