Avalanche forecast

South Coast

Apr 16 – 17, 2018Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

We should see sun, clouds, and localized flurries. The new snow won't bond well to a crust and the sun will further weaken it. Be cautious on south slopes when it is sunny and watch your overhead exposure, as cornice falls could trigger avalanches.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2.5
    20 to 30 cm of snow fell on Monday, which overlies a melt-freeze crust in most areas. The snow likely won't bond well to the crust and could produce large avalanches.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible - Likely
    Size
    1–2.5
    The sun will rapidly weaken the snow surface. Expect loose wet avalanches, particularly on steep southerly terrain and near rocks. Watch your overhead exposure, as they can grow and become large and destructive.

Confidence

Moderate - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Weather Forecast

TUESDAY: A mix of sun and clouds with intermittent flurries, light to moderate west winds, treeline temperature -2 C, freezing level 1000 m.WEDNESDAY: A mix of sun and clouds, light east winds, treeline temperature -1 C, freezing level 1200 m.THURSDAY: Sunny with afternoon clouds, light southwest winds, treeline temperature -1 C, freezing level 1300 m.

Avalanche Summary

We have received very little information on avalanche activity for this region.  From what we have heard, skiers could easily trigger small loose wet avalanches on Sunday.  Natural loose wet avalanches were also observed in treeline and alpine terrain, particularly on southerly aspects.  Large slab avalanches were also observed, which may have released during the storm on Friday.We would very much appreciate it if you spend a moment to submit any observations you have to the Mountain Information Network here, even if it is just a photo. Thanks!

Snowpack Summary

Around 20 to 30 cm of snow on Monday fell on a melt-freeze crust formed by Sunday’s sunshine and warm air temperatures.   On shady slopes in the alpine, the snow fell on wind slabs formed from strong south winds early in the weekend.  A thick melt-freeze crust exists below this, which is about 40 to 60 cm deep.  The snow below this is well-settled and strong.Below about 1000 m, a spring snowpack exists.

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