Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 21st, 2023 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
wlewis,
Avalanche Canada
Expect wind loaded features in the alpine to remain reactive to human triggers. Head to sheltered terrain at treeline to avoid slabs, and find the powder you've been searching for.
Summary
Confidence
Avalanche Summary
On Wednesday size 1 natural wind slabs were reported from north facing alpine slopes, during active wind loading. Activity is expected to taper as winds ease on Friday. However, slabs may remain reactive to human triggers.
If you do go into the backcountry, consider submitting a Mountain Information Network report.
Snowpack Summary
Storm snow from last week has been redistributed into north and east facing alpine and treeline features. West and south facing slopes (windward), have been scoured by the strong winds or have dense, wind packed snow. Sheltered terrain has great riding conditions where snow is not wind affected. Check out this MIN from Log Cabin.
Below 1200 m, a thick crust is present approximately 50 cm above the ground.
The middle and lower snowpack is reported to be well settled and bonded. Snow depth varies from 75-200 cm depending on the aspect.
Weather Summary
Thursday Night
Cloudy with 3 cm of snow, southwest winds 30 km/h. Treeline temperature -8 °C.
Friday
Mostly cloudy with 1-3 cm of snow, southwest winds 20 to 30 km/h, treeline temperature -7 °C.
Saturday
Cloudy with 10 cm of snow possible, southwest winds 40-80 km/h, treeline temperature -5 °C.
Sunday
Cloudy with light to moderate snowfall. Southerly winds 50-70 km/h. Treeline temperatures rise to -3 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Wind slabs are most reactive during their formation.
- Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind slabs freshly formed on Wednesday and Thursday may remain reactive to human trigger.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 22nd, 2023 4:00PM
