Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 12th, 2016 9:06AM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Wind Slabs, Cornices and Loose Wet.

triley, Avalanche Canada

Kootenay Boundary.

Spring Conditions. Forecast new snow and wind will bring back that winter feeling in the mountains. Watch for new wind slabs that may not bond to the old hard surface.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Moderate southwest winds overnight with light snow and freezing levels around 1700 metres. Moderate southwest winds on Wednesday with light snow and freezing levels close to 2000 metres. A mix of sun and cloud on Thursday with light northerly winds and freezing levels climbing up to 2200 metres. Mostly clear on Friday with light southerly winds and freezing levels to 2500 metres.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches reported.

Snowpack Summary

Forecast new snow, wind, and cooler temperatures will bring back winter to higher elevations for a day or two. Expect the old surface to re-freeze overnight and some new wind slabs may form in the lee of southwest winds. These new wind slabs may not bond well to the old hard surface. Surface crusts may break down rapidly if the sun comes out, especially on steep slopes with direct sun exposure.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Forecast new snow and wind may develop new wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline. New wind slabs may not bond well to the old surface crust.

Avoid freshly wind loaded features.>Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Cornices

Forecast cloud, light snow, and cooler temperatures may reduce the likelihood of natural cornice falls.

Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices. >Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes. >Give cornices a wide berth when traveling on ridges. >

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Loose Wet

Forecast cooler temperatures and cloud cover should reduce the likelihood of loose wet avalanches. Lower elevations may be reactive during the heat of the day.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet. >Look for signs of surface instabilities such as pinwheeling and point releasing near cliffs. >

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 13th, 2016 2:00PM