Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 14th, 2018 3:59PM

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

Avalanche Canada mconlan, Avalanche Canada

Expect new slabs from the recent snowfall. Observe for slab properties and the bond with the snow below before committing into avalanche terrain. The sun may shine, which will weaken the snow and increase the likelihood of triggering avalanches.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Weather Forecast

SUNDAY: A mix of sun and cloud, light northeast winds, treeline temperature 0 C, freezing level 1400 m.MONDAY: Cloudy with snowfall, accumulation 10 to 15 cm, light west winds, treeline temperature -2 C, freezing level 1100 m.TUESDAY: Mostly cloudy, light west winds, treeline temperature -2 C, freezing level 1200 m.

Avalanche Summary

We have received very little information on avalanche activity for this region.  From the little we have heard, skiers could easily trigger small loose wet avalanches on Friday.  The rain at lower elevations and snow at higher elevations should mean that the likelihood of triggering avalanches is on the rise.We would very much appreciate it if you spend a moment to submit any observations you have to the Mountain Information Network here, even if it is just a photo. Thanks!

Snowpack Summary

Up to 45 mm of rain fell at lower elevations on Friday night.  Some or all of this precipitation likely fell as snow at higher elevations, building reactive storm slabs that sit on a thick crust.Below tree line, a spring snowpack exists. Rain has saturated the upper snowpack. Forecasted rain will continue this trend.

Problems

Storm Slabs

An icon showing Storm Slabs
Up to 45 cm of recent snowfall at high elevations has produced new storm slabs. The snow fell with strong southwest winds so expect thicker slabs in lee features.
Be cautious as you transition into wind-affected terrain.Observe for the bond of new snow with the old surface before committing into avalanche terrain.Pay attention to overhead hazards like cornices, which could trigger slabs on slopes below.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2.5

Loose Wet

An icon showing Loose Wet
The sun will rapidly weaken the snow surface. Expect loose wet avalanches, particularly on steep southerly terrain and near rocks. Watch your overhead exposure, as they can grow and become large and destructive.
Avoid steep slopes when air temperatures are warm or the solar radiation is strong.Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Apr 15th, 2018 2:00PM