Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 14th, 2015 4:00PM
The alpine rating is Persistent Slabs.
, the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems includeEnjoy the nice weather, but be cautious of the persistent weak layer that is still at the prime depth for human triggering
Summary
Weather Forecast
A weak system will bring light snow starting Thurs PM. We should see 5-10 cm's by Friday night with a clearing trend for Saturday. With this system, we will also see strong alpine winds from the west. Temperatures will cool over the period but remain -5/-10 range at valley bottom.
Snowpack Summary
Snowpack observations at 2200m on Mt. Field on Monday and Emerald Lake slide path on Tues indicate the Dec 18 surface hoar layer down 45cm remains prominent with moderate test results. This layer remains prime for human triggering. Sun crust forming on steep solar aspects and new surface hoar forming in sheltered areas.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches observed or reported today.
Confidence
Problems
Persistent Slabs
A persistent weak layer of surface hoar/ crust/ facets lurks 50 cm's below the surface. This layer is most reactive at the treeline elevation where it is a surface hoar/ crust combination.
- Be aware of the potential for large, deep avalanches due to the presence of buried surface hoar.
- Choose conservative lines and watch for clues of instability.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 15th, 2015 4:00PM