Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 16th, 2020 8:00AM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is moderate. Known problems include Storm Slabs.

Chris Gooliaff,

The storm slab over the Nov crust (a slick sliding layer) continues to stiffen. Watch for cracking around your skis/board; this is an indication that the slab may be failing.

And do look out for the rocks/stumps/open creeks in this young snowpack!

Summary

Weather Forecast

Flurries today, followed by rapid warming Tues, then cooler, unsettled weather Wed

Today: flurries with trace amounts, FZL near 1400m, light/mod S winds in alpine

Tonight: flurries, 7cm, FZL dropping to 1100m, light/mod S winds

Tues: flurries with FZL rising to 2700m, strong gusty S winds

Wed: snow, 20cm, FZL dropping to 1500m, strong SW winds

Snowpack Summary

Moderate to strong southerly winds have redistributed the 30-60cm that now overlays the Nov 5th crust. At treeline, the snowpack consists of a series of crusts with weaker snow surrounding the crusts. The strong Nov 5th crust reaches as high as 2500m, and potentially higher on steep solar aspects.

Avalanche Summary

Natural avalanche activity died down Sunday, with a few isolated storm slabs noted from the N side of Macdonald. However, a skier accidental with a full burial occurred Saturday up Connaught Creek, where the storm slab was initiated on the Nov 5th crust. If you observe an avalanche or concerning conditions, consider sharing on the AvCan MIN site.

Confidence

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs

Watch for storm slabs gaining cohesion over the Nov 5 crust at and above treeline. Wind and warmth will stiffen up the surface slabs, causing them to become more sensitive to human triggering.

  • Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.
  • 1011

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Nov 17th, 2020 8:00AM