Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 19th, 2015 4:17PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Persistent Slabs and Wind Slabs.
snow safety,
Avalanche Canada
New windslabs have formed in the alpine. Concern remains for the Dec 3rd persistent weak layer, dig frequently to check for presence of this spotty spotty surface hoar problem and keep a watchful eye on the character of the slab above it. TH
Summary
Weather Forecast
Westerly flow will bring light amounts of precip under mainly cloudy skies with light to moderate winds over the forecast period. Expect 10cm total through Monday as temps hover around -10C for daily highs at treeline. Winds should shift to a NW flow and bring some clearing beyond Monday after a system passes to the south of the forecast region
Snowpack Summary
Around 10cm of new snow now brings the faceted slab over the Dec 3 Surface Hoar to 30 to 50cm. While significant shears persist on this layer in isolated, shaded and sheltered areas from 1700m to 2150m, this problem has not been responsible for much activity and the potential for triggering is diminishing as the slab above it loses strength.
Avalanche Summary
A few reports of loose dry and windslab activity out of alpine terrain. Recent snowfall has combined with moderate W and SW winds creating isolated fresh slabs in alpine terrain.
Confidence
Problems
Persistent Slabs
A 30-50cm slab sits over the Dec 3 surface hoar that can be found in isolated areas between 1500 and 1800m. While this slab has facetted out in many areas, be cautious in aggressive terrain or in wind affected areas where the slab may retain strength
- Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.
- Avoid unsupported slopes.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Wind Slabs
New isolated slabs are forming in alpine terrain
- Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading has created wind slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 20th, 2015 4:00PM
