Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 5th, 2015 9:32AM

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

ghelgeson, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Strong SW winds are likely forming stiff wind slabs at upper elevations. The snowpack is highly variable. Give info and get info! Check out the Mountain Information Network. (MIN)

Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

Strong southwesterly flow is expected to continue to drive moist and progressively warmer systems into the Coastal and Interior ranges of the province, but very little is expected to spillover into the southeast corner. SUNDAY: Freezing level 1800m. No significant snowfall expected. Strong SW winds at all elevations. MONDAY: Freezing level beginning around 1800m rising to 2000m. 1 to 10cm of snow possible. Strong SW winds at all elevations. TUESDAY: Freezing level could peak as high as 2500m. Trace of snow/rain possible. Strong to Extreme SW winds.

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanches have been reported. If you are out in the mountains, please post your observations to the Mountain Information Network.

Snowpack Summary

15 to 25cm of recent low density storm snow sits on the surface, or has been sluffing from steeper terrain features. The new snow sits on a variety of older snow surfaces which consist of stubborn wind slabs and crusts in exposed higher elevation terrain, and loose faceted snow and surface hoar in more sheltered areas. Above treeline 100-150 cm of snow sits on the ground, while below treeline you may only find 40-90 cm. Several rain crust layers exist within the snowpack, one down approximately 30-60 cm (mid-November) and another down 10-25 cm depending on elevation. Snowpack test results have shown easy shears, failing in a facet layer below the crust. Definitely something to keep an eye on when we receive more load. Where this crust exists, it has added strength to the current snowpack. In general there is a lot of uncertainty regarding snowpack structure throughout the region

Problems

Storm Slabs

You're likely to find small storm slabs in wind sheltered terrain. Wind exposed terrain is a different story. Where the wind is blowing, I expect a growing wind slab problem that will likely increase in sensitivity to triggering throughout the day.

Use extra caution as you transition into wind affected terrain. >If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, do it gradually as you gather information. >Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Dec 6th, 2015 2:00PM