Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 3rd, 2020 4:00PM

The alpine rating is high, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is moderate.

Avalanche Canada mmueller, Avalanche Canada

Given the slow, but steady show of natural avalanches lately, we're expecting the deep layers to wake up with the new snow and/or wind loading. Avoid big terrain, especially if it hasn't avalanched yet. 

Summary

Confidence

No Rating -

Weather Forecast

Snow starting over night, but a distinct pulse is expected around 8am. Amounts will be 10-15cm by midday. As the initial front passes, temps will fall to -13 or so. The bad news is the wind. High alpine winds will be hauling! 75km/hour winds at peak height are expected. Even valley bottom will have 40-50 km gusts! 

Avalanche Summary

The path immediately below the Tent Ridge radio repeater went sz 2.5 at some point today. It slid on ground and had a 1m+ crown. East aspect and initiated below the ridge line.

Snowpack Summary

10-15 cm has fallen in the last day and a half. The surface hoar that was discussed earlier this week is present in some areas, but not in others. We don't have a good picture of where exactly it is just yet. We think it is up to treeline in elevation, but it may be higher in sheltered areas. So far it isn't a problem due to the lack of a surface slab, but that WILL change if we get more snow on it. Beyond that, the other major change is the new windloading on Easterly aspects. Expect new windslabs from today. And of course, we couldn't have a snowpack discussion without talking about the deep persistent layer. This layer is 110-130 deep, and bridged by the mid pack in many areas, but thin or variable areas remain concerning. 

Terrain and Travel

  • Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of a deep persistent slab.

Valid until: Jan 4th, 2020 4:00PM