Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 4th, 2022 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs, Persistent Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.
Timothy Johnson,
The current avalanche problems are variable across elevation bands and the forecast region. Dig down and investigate at all elevations before committing to avalanche terrain.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud.
Precipitation: Nil.
Alpine temperature: High -17 C.
Light ridge wind.
Freezing level at valley bottom.
Thursday
Cloudy with scattered flurries.
Accumulation: 5 cm.
Alpine temperature: Low -20 C, High -12 C.
Ridge wind southwest: 15 km/h.
Freezing level at valley bottom.
Snowpack Summary
Up to 15 cm of new snow have been redistributed by strong SW then N winds. Cold temps continue to promote faceting. The mid-pack is supportive with the Dec 1st interface down 40cm as a rain crust below 1950m and possibly a density change interface above 1950m. Basal faceting continues near or on the ground.
Avalanche Summary
One large avalanche was reported by the public over an ice climb on Mt. Wilson. See the MIN report.
Confidence
Due to the number and quality of field observations
Problems
Wind Slabs
Variable wind directions have caused reverse loading. Strong to extreme winds in the past few days had a potential to create wind slabs farther down the slopes. Careful assessment is required with local terrain influences.
- If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.
- Variable winds may create pockets of wind slab in some unexpected locations.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Persistent Slabs
This layer is a rain crust up to 1950m and reactive to large loads. It could also be a problem layer above 1950m not as a crust but a density change interface. Typically this layer is down around 40cm.
- Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Deep Persistent Slabs
Natural deep avalanches are getting less frequent yet it remains a low probability and high consequence event if you push your luck.
- Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices which could trigger the deep persistent slab.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 5th, 2022 4:00PM
