Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Coquihalla, Harrison-Fraser, Manning, Skagit.
Conditions are tricky despite the moderate danger rating and sunny weather.
A persistent weak layer and wind slabs remain a concern.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Whumpfing near Zoa peak was reported on Saturday where there was a slab (stiff snow) over the weak layer. Small skier triggered sluffs were also reported in steep terrain on Saturday.
Snowpack Summary
Wind effect has been extensive, and wind slabs can be found on various aspects extending well into treeline features.
Up to 5 cm of new snow that fell Friday night is adding to 20 to 60 cm of old snow overlying a weak layer that developed in late January. In many areas, this layer consists of a hard crust. However, on shady, upper-elevation slopes, the new snow may be resting on faceted grains or surface hoar.
A crust from December is buried 80 to 120 cm deep and may have facets around it in shallow areas. Otherwise, the lower snowpack is well consolidated.
Weather Summary
Sunday Night
Clear skies. 10 to 20 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -16 °C.
Monday
Sunny. 20 to 40 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -17 °C.
Tuesday
Sunny. 20 to 40 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperatures -8 °C.
Wednesday
Sunny. 10 to 20 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperatures -10 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- The best and safest riding will be on slopes that have soft snow without any slab properties.
- Be careful with wind-loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and rollovers.
- Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Recent wind varied in direction, so watch for wind slabs on all aspects. Be cautious transitioning into wind affected terrain.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Persistent Slabs
A weak layer of facets/surface hoar/crust are buried up to 60 cm deep. Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff or slabby.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Unlikely
Expected Size: 1 - 2.5