Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Feb 15th, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
CB,
Avalanche Canada
Good travel, moderate hazard and quality riding is making for fun days out in the park.
Be on the watch for wind slabs in lee features at treeline and in the alpine.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
On Wednesday, isolated natural avalanches were observed up to size 2 in steep, north facing terrain off Mt. Macdonald, triggered by wind loading.
Strong solar input Tuesday resulted in numerous natural avalanches to sz 2.5 from southerly aspects within the highway corridor and from backcountry reports. Small, moist point releases could be observed in many lower elevation S aspects as well.
As well on Tuesday, neighbours reported natural cornice falls and avalanches triggered on wind slabs to size 2.5.
Snowpack Summary
Crusts formed on solar aspects (south through west) mid week will start to get covered today as snowfall begins.
Strong SW winds and snow from Sunday's storm formed a wind slab in lee and crossloaded features at Alpine/Treeline elevations. On Wednesday wind slabs were stubborn to trigger.
Good riding can be found in settled storm snow on polar aspects in less exposed terrain.
Weather Summary
A frontal system will deliver snow starting Thursday. Light snow is forecasted with a upslope flow bringing enhanced amounts to west-facing terrain. Freezing levels will stay below pass level.
Tonight: Cloudy w/clear periods, Alp low -11*C, light SW winds
Thurs: Flurries, 10 cm, Alp high -9*C, light gusting to moderate SW winds, Fz lvl: 800 m
Fri: Cloudy w/sun and flurries, Trace snowfall, Alp high -10*C, light W winds, Fz lvl: 600 m
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
- Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Strong SW winds during Sunday night's storm, created wind slabs in Alpine and Treeline lee features. Use caution in wind effected terrain that is steep and exposed, were even a small avalanche could have large consequences.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Feb 16th, 2023 4:00PM
