Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 6th, 2014 8:39AM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Persistent Slabs and Storm Slabs.

rbuhler, Avalanche Canada

South Columbia.

New wind slabs may be a concern in exposed terrain. Persistent slabs remain a concern anywhere that did not avalanche last week. If you observe any new activity, please send us an email to forecaster@avalanche.ca

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain

Weather Forecast

A weak ridge of high pressure will bring dry conditions and some sun for Sunday. On Monday, the pattern changes to a strong SW flow which will persist for several days. Freezing levels will rise to around 1500m on Monday and as high as 2500m on Tuesday. Light precipitation is expected for Monday and Tuesday and alpine winds are expected to be moderate-strong from the SW.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported.

Snowpack Summary

Surface: Friday's light snow hides surfaces including wind slabs (variable in distribution); surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes. // Upper-mid pack: Anywhere from 5-30 cm of settling snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations "pops and drops" indicate this beast could still be touchy.// Lower pack: A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down.

Problems

Persistent Slabs

The chances of triggering a persistent slab have decreased, but the consequences are still high. Any slopes that did not avalanche during the last storm cycle should still be considered hazardous.

Avoid common trigger zones including thin snowpack areas, near rocky outcrops, and steep alpine slopes.>Choose well supported terrain without convexities.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Storm Slabs

Snow and wind may create new slabs over the weekend. These may become more reactive as alpine temperatures rise or the sun shines on them.

Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South, South West.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 7th, 2014 2:00PM