Avalanche forecast

Cariboos

Apr 22 – 23, 2024Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low

Highlights

Watch for wind loaded pockets in leeward alpine features and back off sun exposed slopes during the heat of the day.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Wind slabs are possible where wind has deposited sufficient snow into lee terrain features at upper elevations. Wind slabs may be especially reactive where they sit over a crust.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–1.5

    Cold dry snow will be especially sensitive to warm temperatures and strong sun. Expect loose avalanches on steep sunny slopes and at elevations where temperatures rise above zero.

Confidence

Low

Avalanche Summary

A couple of large cornice failures were observed last week in high alpine north-facing terrain. These loads notably did not propagate any weak layers on the slopes below.

Snowpack Summary

10 to 20 cm of recent snow in the alpine is settling rapidly in mild temperatures, with surfaces becoming moist on sunny aspects and lower elevations. The recent snow sits over a widespread melt-freeze crust on all but high north-facing alpine terrain, where snow is dry and likely wind affected.

Weather Summary

Monday night

Clear. 10 to 20 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 900 m.

Tuesday

A mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 30 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +2 °C. Freezing level 2300m.

Wednesday

A mix of sun and cloud. 10 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 2000m.

Thursday

Mostly cloudy with a trace of snow. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 2000m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
  • As surface loses cohesion due to melting, loose wet avalanches become common in steeper terrain.
  • Avoid steep slopes when air temperatures are warm, or solar radiation is strong.
  • Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.

Regions covered