A rising freezing level will increase avalanche hazard. Use extra caution near cornices and reduce exposure to steep slopes as the snow surface moisten.
Cornices are large at this time of year and will become more prone to fail as they warm up with spring weather. Stay well back from them when on ridgelines and limit your exposure when travelling on slopes below them.
Wet loose avalanche activity is expected to continue with daytime warming and during periods of rain or strong sun. Limit your exposure to steep terrain when the snow starts feeling sloppy.
The weekend saw many loose wet avalanches that were triggered naturally and by riders. We expect that similar avalanches will occur this week as freezing levels rise, bringing warm air, some rain, and sun.
Avoiding cornice exposure is also a good idea, as they will weaken with warm air and could fail naturally or under the weight of a human.
The snow surface is moist to mountain tops from warm air and rain. The remainder of the snowpack is strong and well-bonded.
Cornices are large and looming at this time of year.
Tuesday Night
Increasing clouds with rain for northern Vancouver Island, accumulation 2 to 5 mm, 20 km/h west wind, treeline temperature 4 °C, freezing level 2700 m.
Wednesday
Cloudy with morning rain, accumulation 2 to 5 mm and up to 10 mm for central and north Vancouver Island, 20 to 40 km/h southwest wind, treeline temperature 4 °C, freezing level 2500 m.
ThursdayMostly sunny with no precipitation, 10 km/h variable wind, treeline temperature 10 °C, freezing level 3500 m.
FridaySunny with no precipitation, 10 km/h variable wind, treeline temperature 15 °C, freezing level 3900 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
