Avalanche Forecast
Kootenay Boundary
Wintery conditions up high - spring conditions down low. Watch for conditions that change with elevation.
Avalanche Problem 1: Wind Slabs
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Stay off recent wind loaded areas until the slope has had a chance to stabilize.
Avalanche Problem 2: Loose Wet
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Rain at lower elevations will promote ongoing loose wet avalanche activity. Use increased caution in steep open terrain below treeline.
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where small avalanches may have severe consequences.
- Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported. I would expect expect a new round of wind slab activity on Saturday in response to new snow and wind. Loose wet avalanches and cornice falls will soon become problematic with warming and solar radiation forecast for Sunday and Monday.
Snowpack Summary
New snow and wind on Saturday are expected to form new wind slabs in upper elevation lee terrain. Depending on aspect and elevation, the new snow will likely overlie moist snow, a melt-freeze crust or settled storm snow from earlier in the week.
Numerous other melt-freeze crusts exist in the upper snowpack from rain, sun, and warming during the spring season.
The mid and lower snowpack are generally well-settled and strong while melt-freeze conditions exist on all aspects below treeline.
Weather Forecast
Saturday: 8-15cm of new snow / Strong southwest winds / Freezing level at 1800m
Sunday: Clear skies / Light and variable winds / Freezing level at 1900m
Monday: Clear skies / Light and variable winds / Freezing level at 2400m
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New snow and wind will promote new wind slab development in upper elevation lee terrain. Watch for triggering behind ridge crests and in gullies.