Avalanche Forecast
South Coast Inland
Warm temperatures are expected to destabilize the surface snow and could also release storm slab avalanches at higher elevations.
Avalanche Problem 1: Loose Wet
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Avoid exposure to terrain traps where the consequences of a small avalanche could be serious.
- Use extra caution on solar slopes or if the snow is moist or wet.
Avalanche Problem 2: Storm Slabs
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Recent storm slabs may release on steep terrain in response to rapid loading on Sunday.
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes if solar radiation is strong.
- Be alert to conditions that change with elevation.
- Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.
Avalanche Summary
Under rapid warming conditions, slab avalanches are possible above 1500 m where recent new snow has fallen. Loose snow avalanches are possible on steep terrain at all elevations, but will be most likely on southerly aspects if the sun comes out.
Snowpack Summary
Recent storm slabs and wind slabs have formed in response to recent snow and southwest winds above approximately 1600 m. Below the new storm snow, you'll find about 15-50 cm of relatively low-density snow which overlies a thick crust that was buried on January 6. This crust exists up to about 2000m.
A widespread melt-freeze crust formed in mid-December is still on the radar of professionals in the northern portion of the region where it is down 40 to 50 cm below the surface. Recent observations have shown that there are rounding facets underneath the crust on shady aspects at and above treeline. Recent snowpack tests have produced easy sudden-planar results on solar aspects at and above treeline on this interface as well. Around the Coquihalla this interface is not problematic and is thought to be part of a well bonded mid-pack.
The lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.
Weather Forecast
Sunday: Warm, dry and sunny. Freezing level rising to over 3000m. Some cold air may be trapped at lower elevations keeping the valleys cool below 1500m.
Monday: Slightly cooler temperatures, but still a warm day. Freezing level around 2500m. Temperatures at 2000m around 5C. Cloud building through the day.
Tuesday: Rain turning to snow later on. Amounts: 10-15mm. Freezing level 2300m in the morning, 1500m in the afternoon. Moderate southeasterly winds.
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Loose snow avalanches are expected in many areas in steep terrain as warm air moves in on Sunday. Slopes that face the sun are especially likely to respond to loose snow activity.