Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 4th, 2016 8:01AM

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

triley, Avalanche Canada

Cariboos.

Forecast light snow and wind may continue to build thin wind slabs in the alpine.

Summary

Confidence

High

Weather Forecast

A weak low pressure system has been deflected by the ridge towards the interior ranges. Temperatures should remain cold with freezing levels at valley bottoms for the duration of the forecast. Cloudy with some flurries and light snow falls are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a total snowfall for these two days around 5 cm. On Thursday there is a chance of 5-10 cm. Wind should be light from the southeast for the duration of the forecast.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches reported.

Snowpack Summary

The last few days of clear skies, solar radiation, and warm air trapped at higher elevations has settled the recent storm snow. Southerly aspects have seen enough sun and warmth to release loose dry and moist avalanches in steep terrain. Melt-freeze crusts may be encountered on solar aspects. Wind transported snow continues to form thin slabs on variety of aspects. Surface hoar has been reported forming in sheltered locations.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Touchy thin new wind slabs may continue to develop due to changing wind directions and forecast light snowfall. Forecast southeast winds may reverse load some alpine terrain features.

Avoid cross loaded slopes at or above treeline.>Use ridges or ribs to avoid pockets of wind loaded snow. >Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain. >Back off if you encounter hard, breakable or drum-like snow.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Valid until: Jan 5th, 2016 2:00PM