Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 30th, 2016 4:41PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs.

jsmith, Avalanche Canada

North Columbia.

Be on the lookout for lingering wind slabs in the alpine. Avoid likely trigger spots such as shallow, rocky, wind affected areas.

Summary

Confidence

Low - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

THURSDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light westerly winds / Freezing level at valley bottom. FRIDAY: Stormy with 5-10 cm snow / Moderate to strong southwesterly winds / Freezing level around 1100 m. SATURDAY: Stormy with 5-10 cm snow / Moderate to strong westerly winds / Freezing level around 900 m.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported in this region on Tuesday. However, observations are still limited.

Snowpack Summary

Lingering wind slabs may exist in open terrain at treeline and above. The mid-November crust is now buried 80-140 cm deep. There have been reports of small surface hoar forming with spotty distribution.Â The incoming snow this weekend will be especially reactive where this layer exists. Although reports suggest the overlying snow is well bonded to this crust, this layer may become active as the snow load increases. Below the crust the snowpack is generally well settled. Snowpack depths vary greatly throughout the region with an average of 130-200 cm at treeline elevations. Early season hazards such as stumps, rocks, and open creeks remain the primary hazards below treeline.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Lingering wind slabs may still be reactive to human triggers.

Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Avoid slopes that sound hollow or drum-like.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 1st, 2016 2:00PM