Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 1st, 2022 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Persistent Slabs and Loose Dry.
CB,
Avalanche Canada
A complex persistent weak layer exists down 30-40cm. If you choose to brave the cold temperatures, pay attention to signs of instability such as cracking and whumpfing, and dig to assess this layer before committing to avalanche terrain.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Field team in the Icefield area on Monday observed shooting cracks and whumpfing on surface hoar layer down 30 cm at tree line and below in sheltered east to northerly aspects. Nov 27th MIN report confirms the presence of the same layer of concern in the Maligne region. Marmot Ski Area reporting no recent results from explosive testing and control.
Snowpack Summary
30-40cm of snow overlies the November 16th Persistent Weak Layer, which is comprised of surface hoar and facets in sheltered locations tree line and below, and a crust on southerly aspects. The surface hoar/facet layer may extend into isolated alpine terrain. The strength of the lower snowpack is also deteriorating with recent cold temperatures. Height of snow ranges from 60 to 100cm.
Weather Summary
A ridge of high pressure with frigid temperatures will remain the dominant weather pattern over the area until Sunday.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Approach steep open slopes at and below treeline cautiously, buried surface hoar may exist.
- Back off if you encounter whumpfing, hollow sounds, or shooting cracks.
Problems
Persistent Slabs
Limited observation in the Alpine. Marmot Basin Ski area reports surface hoar extending into some alpine features. Solar crust on south aspects is also of concern. Dig and assess this layer before commiting to terrain.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Loose Dry
Use caution in steep and/or confined terrain features.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 2nd, 2022 4:00PM
