Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 8th, 2017 4:09PM

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

mbender, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

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Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light to moderate southwest wind / Alpine temperature -4 / Freezing level 1400mMONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light southwest wind / Alpine temperature -5 / Freezing level 1400mTUESDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light to moderate southeast wind / Alpine temperature -2 / Freezing level 1700m

Avalanche Summary

There have been very few reports coming from the region in the past week. On Sunday, the main concern is lingering wind slabs in high elevation north facing terrain and the possibility of large overhanging cornices releasing with overall warm temperatures and the sun coming out over the coming days.

Snowpack Summary

A series of Pacific frontal systems have passed through the region in the latter half of last week accumulating 15-25cm of moist new snow tree line and above. In high elevation terrain, recent moderate southerly winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there is likely moist or wet snow sitting on top of several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs have recently formed in north facing terrain at higher elevations and are expected to remain reactive to human triggering.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 9th, 2017 2:00PM