Avalanche forecast

South Coast

Apr 17 – 18, 2018Avalanche Canada
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Fri
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

A warming and sunny trend is forecasted. This will weaken the recent snow and increase the likelihood of triggering avalanches. Be cautious on south slopes and avoid overhead exposure when it is sunny or warm.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2.5
    Recent snowfall has formed storm slabs, which overlies a melt-freeze crust in most areas. The snow could slide on the crust and produce large avalanches.  Be cautious on or below corniced ridges, as cornice falls could trigger slab avalanches.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2.5
    The sun and warming temperatures 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.

Confidence

Moderate - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Weather Forecast

WEDNESDAY: Mostly cloudy with afternoon clearing, light southeast winds, treeline temperature 0 C, freezing level 1000 m rising to 1500 m.THURSDAY: Sunny with some afternoon cloud, light southwest winds, treeline temperature 0 C, freezing level 1400 m.FRIDAY: Cloudy with afternoon precipitation, light to moderate southwest winds, treeline temperature -1 C, freezing level 1300 m.

Avalanche Summary

We have received very little information on avalanche activity for this region. From what we have heard, skiers could easily trigger small loose wet avalanches on Monday. Natural loose wet avalanches were also observed in treeline and alpine terrain, particularly on southerly aspects. Large slab avalanches were also observed, which may have released during the storm on Friday.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

Above about 1200 m, 30 to 40 cm of snow on Monday and Tuesday fell on a melt-freeze crust formed by Sunday's sunshine and warm air temperatures. The snow below this is well-settled and strong.Below 1200 m, a spring snowpack exists.

Regions covered