Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 8th, 2024 4:00PM

The alpine rating is low, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low.

Avalanche Canada bchristie, Avalanche Canada

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Watch for unstable snow on steep features, and remember that even a small avalanche can be dangerous.

Ride/hike to the conditions, backcountry travel may be challenging.

Summary

Confidence

High

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches have been reported in this forecast area.

Nearby, on Wednesday, a small (size 1), rider-triggered, loose wet avalanche was reported in the Whistler backcountry. It occurred on a west aspect in open terrain at or below treeline.

Also around Whistler, loose dry sluffing was reported in steep, north-facing terrain.

Snowpack Summary

Lingering small wind slabs may exist below alpine ridgetops.

Above 1800 m, 10 - 20 cm of recent snow sits on a supportive crust.

Below 1800 m, recent snow amounts taper quickly and the crust increases in thickness.

Where snow still exists below treeline, it is isothermal and travel is very challenging.

Weather Summary

Thursday Night

Mostly clear. No new snow expected. Light variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature around -8 °C. Freezing level falling to valley bottom.

Friday

Mostly sunny. No new snow expected. Light variable ridgetop wind. Freezing level rising to 800 m through the day.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy. 0-1 cm of snow expected. Light southwest ridgetop wind. Freezing level falling to valley bottom overnight, rising to 1000 m through the day. Treeline high around -1 °C.

Sunday

Mostly cloudy. 1-3 cm of snow expected above 1200 m. Light southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -2 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

Terrain and Travel Advice

  • Even a small avalanche can be harmful if it pushes you into an obstacle or a terrain trap.
  • Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.
  • Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
  • Be alert to conditions that change with elevation and sun exposure.
  • When a thick, melt-freeze surface crust is present, avalanche activity is unlikely.

Valid until: Feb 9th, 2024 4:00PM