Two avalanches triggered in West Kootenay
By Nelson Daily Editor
The Nelson Daily staff
Although there have been no reports of human-triggered avalanches in the West Kootenay region, explosive control at 2,000 metres produced two avalanches on steep southwest to southeast slopes.
The Canadian Avalanche Centre said the backcountry avalanche conditions in the West Kootenay region are fair with around 100 centimetres of snow existing at tree line elevations — with crown depths in the region of 20-25 cm.
The top 20 cm. is new snow but it sits on variable old wind slab surfaces. Pockets of old and new wind slab exist where the wind has drifted the snow.
“A rain crust exists at or very near the ground,” said a release from the CAC.
“At present, the bond between the rain crust and the overlying snow appears good, although this could change in the future if the snowpack remains thin and the cold temperatures return.”
Sunday will be dry with light winds in the backcountry with tree line temperatures around -8 degrees C. There are some flurries predicted for Monday night with light southerly winds, but there is still some uncertainty regarding the timing and intensity of the next pacific frontal system approaching the coast on Monday night.
Terrain to watch
Immediate lee of steep ridgelines where wind-drifting is evident.
Flanks of steep gullies and unsupported sections of convex rolls.
Travel advice
Start the day on smaller slopes and build up from there if there are no signs of instability. Watch for early-season obstacles, such as stumps and rocks and open creeks.
To get bulletins by email, register in CAC’s new system at: http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/bulletins/subscribe.
The Canadian Avalanche Centre needs data from the backcountry in the West Kootenay. Send to forecaster@avalanche.ca or call 250-837-2141 ext 230.
