Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 12th, 2018 4:53PM

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

jfloyer, Avalanche Canada

South Coast Inland.

Another round of storms will maintain high avalanche danger for the South Coast Inland region. Use caution heading into the backcountry at this time.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain

Weather Forecast

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: 20-30 cm new snow is expected overnight.THURSDAY: 15-25 cm new snow with freezing levels rising to around 1500 m. Strong southwesterly winds.FRIDAY: Around 10 cm new snow. Freezing levels rising to around 1900 m. Strong southerly winds.SATURDAY: Flurries with some clear spells. Freezing levels around 1000 m. Light southerly winds.

Avalanche Summary

We have had few observations from this region during the storm. Observations from the Sea to Sky region indicate there was a natural avalanche cycle to size 2 on Wednesday. Similar avalanche activity has likely occurred in this region, and will likely continue to occur with continued storm snow in the forecast.

Snowpack Summary

Snowfall starting Sunday night has deposited 30-40 cm at higher elevations in the region. This has buried a weak, variable surface layer covering 20-30 cm of low density faceted snow. The new snow has not bonded well with the older snow. Prior to this storm, alpine snowpack depths varied around 120-180 cm, with an early November crust at bottom of the snowpack (down 100-120cm). This crust appears to be breaking down at higher elevations and has been unreactive to snowpack tests. Snowpack depths disappear quickly with decreasing elevations and new snow may just cover early season hazards at lower elevations.

Problems

Storm Slabs

With increased snowfall and high winds forecasted, expect storm slabs to be more reactive in wind-loaded terrain.

Avoid all avalanche terrain during periods of heavy loading from new snow, wind, or rain.Minimize exposure to overhead avalanche terrain, large avalanches may reach run out zones.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Very Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Valid until: Dec 13th, 2018 2:00PM