Avalanche forecast

Lizard

Jan 30 – 31, 2024Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Fri
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

A rain-soaked snowpack will continue to create dangerous avalanche conditions and poor riding quality.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    Wet loose avalanche activity can be expected from steep terrain. These avalanches could entrain significant mass and gouge to ground in shallow snowpack areas.

  • Wet Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1.5–3

    Wet slab avalanches may continue to occur. Expect the most reactivity during periods of rain or strong sun.

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

A widespread natural avalanche cycle occurred in the past few days as rain impacted the snowpack. Numerous large (size 2-3) wet slab avalanches have been reported from all aspects and elevations.

If poor riding quality doesn't deter you on Tuesday, keep in mind that human-triggered avalanches remain likely. Avoid overhead exposure, large natural avalanches have the potential to entrain significant mass and run to valley bottom.

Snowpack Summary

Rain has created a moist or wet upper snowpack at all elevations. A weak surface crust may have formed overnight at upper elevations.

Roughly 40 to 50 cm of snow from last week sits over various old surfaces. In some areas, it is slow to bond due to sugary facets.

Near the bottom of the snowpack, there are a series of crusts and facets that are more prominent in shallow areas.

Weather Summary

Monday Night

Clear with cloudy periods. Alpine wind southwest 15 to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature drops to -1 °C, freezing level 1800 m.

Tuesday

A mix of sun and cloud with isolated showers. Alpine wind southwest 15 to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature 1 °C, freezing level 2900 m.

Wednesday

Sunny with cloudy periods, no precipitation. Alpine wind light from the southwest. Treeline temperature 1 °C, freezing level 3000 m.

Thursday

A mix of sun and cloud with isolated showers. Alpine wind southwest 10 to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature 1 °C, freezing level 2400 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Make conservative terrain choices and avoid overhead hazard.
  • Keep in mind that wet avalanches can be destructive due to their high density.
  • The more the snow feels like a slurpy, the more likely loose wet avalanches will become.

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