The upper snowpack has become saturated and weakened due to warm temperatures and rainfall.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
A widespread loose wet and wet slab avalanche cycle occurred in the Coquihalla area over the past few days, up to size 2.
Recent observations have been limited.
Snowpack Summary
Rainfall has saturated the upper snowpack at all elevations. Below treeline, the snowpack has significantly decreased and may now be below the threshold in some areas.
The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-bonded and strong, with several old crusts present. The snowpack remains shallow for this time of year.
Weather Summary
Monday Night
Couldy with 0 to 10 mm of rain, southwest alpine winds 60 to 90 km/h, freezing levels around 2400 m.
Tuesday
Cloudy with trace amounts of rain or wet snow, southwest alpine winds 20 to 40 km/h, freezing levels around 2400 m.
Wednesday
Mostly cloudy with 0 to 5 mm of rain or wet snow, south alpine winds 20 to 40 km/h, freezing levels around 2200 m.
Thursday
Mostly cloudy with 0 to 5 mm of rain or wet snow, south alpine winds 20 to 40 km/h, freezing levels around 2000 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- The more the snow feels like a slurpy, the more likely loose wet avalanches will become.
- Even a small avalanche can be harmful if it pushes you into an obstacle or a terrain trap.
- Avoid areas with overhead hazard.
- Keep in mind that wet avalanches can be destructive due to their high density.
Problems
Loose Wet
The upper snowpack is saturated and continues to lose strength with above-freezing temperatures and rain.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wet Slabs
Wet slab avalanches are of particular concern in areas where a saturated snowpack pack overlies a hard crust or smooth ground surfaces like rock slabs or grassy slopes.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 30th, 2024 4:00PM
