Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 5th, 2016 4:52PM

The alpine rating is considerable, the treeline rating is considerable, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Storm Slabs.

shorton, Avalanche Canada

South Coast.

Heavy snowfall has created dangerous avalanche conditions in the South Coast mountains.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate - Due to the number of field observations

Weather Forecast

TUESDAY: Sunny, light northwest winds, treeline temperatures at -8.WEDNESDAY: Sunny, light north winds, treeline temperatures at -10.THURSDAY: Flurries with 10-20 cm accumulations, 40-60 km/h southwest winds, treeline temperature at -5.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches have been reported in this region recently, but Monday's heavy snowfall will create large and touchy storm slabs.

Snowpack Summary

As of Monday afternoon, 30-45 cm of new snow has fallen in the South Coast mountains and is expected to continue into Monday evening. The new snow will form touchy storm slabs on Tuesday, especially at higher elevations and on wind loaded features. 30-50 cm of snow from last weekend's storm is rapidly settling, although a MIN report from Sunday suggests there were some instabilities in the old storm snow. Total snowpack depths are around 170 cm at treeline and over 2 metres at higher elevations, with the mid-pack rapidly gaining strength. Thanks to the riders in the Sky Pilot area for their recent MIN reports!

Problems

Storm Slabs

30-45 cm of new snow has created very touchy storm slabs. Storm slabs will be most reactive in steep terrain and on leeward features.

Minimize exposure during periods of heavy loading from new snow and wind.Avoid steep, open slopes.Use conservative route selection, choose moderate angled and supported terrain with low consequence.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Very Likely

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Dec 6th, 2016 2:00PM