Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 24th, 2022 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Loose Wet.

Avalanche Canada dsaly, Avalanche Canada

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Kootenay Boundary.

Warm temperatures overnight may prevent a good re-freeze. Check for 'crust recovery' and be off slopes before they turn mushy or wet.

Summary

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY NIGHT: Mostly clear with incoming cloud, 15-25 km/h south wind, ridgetop low temperature 0 C. Poor overnight re-freeze expected with freezing level hovering above 2300 m.

MONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries, 20-40 km/h south wind, ridgetop high temperature +4 C, freezing level above 2300 m.

TUESDAY: Wet flurries, 10-15 mm. 15-25 km southwest wind, ridgetop high temperature +1 C, daytime freezing level below 1700 m.

WEDNESDAY: Overnight flurries, 5-15 cm. West wind gusting to 60 km/h, alpine high temperature -1 C, daytime freezing level 1700 m.

Avalanche Summary

Small (size 1) wet loose avalanches were observed around Kootenay Pass on Friday.

Please consider posting your observations to the Mountain Information Network to supplement our data stream and help fellow recreationists.

Snowpack Summary

The snowpack has transitioned to spring-time conditions, with overnight crusts transitioning to moist snow during the day, and isolated and lingering winter-ish conditions at the highest shaded elevations. Overall the snowpack is strong, consisting of hard snow and various melt-freeze crusts. At ridge top, remember that cornices are large and looming. With warm springtime temperatures, check for good overnight recovery - avoid slopes that do not get an overnight re-freeze. 

Terrain and Travel

  • Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.
  • Minimize exposure to sun-exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
  • Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.

Problems

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet

Warm air and sun can pack a punch, causing loose wet avalanches that may entrain recent snow and travel far. With warm springtime temperatures, check for good overnight recovery - avoid slopes that do not get an overnight re-freeze. 

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 25th, 2022 4:00PM

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