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Backcountry Advice

Backcountry Avalanche Danger Rating for the areas adjacent to the Whistler/Blackcomb ski areas As of Wednesday, Feb. 12 A strong ridge of high pressure is continuing to dominate the conditions in our area.

Backcountry Avalanche Danger Rating for the areas adjacent to the

Whistler/Blackcomb ski areas

As of Wednesday, Feb. 12

A strong ridge of high pressure is continuing to dominate the conditions in our area. A meagre layer of soft snow is doing its best to survive the very mild temperatures and occasional north winds, but it is fighting a losing battle.

A crust buried on Jan. 28 has been breaking down, with facets forming at the crust boundaries while some small facet formation has been taking place in the softer laminated layers within the crust. Shears at these boundary interfaces have been moderate to hard.

The pleasant sunny days and accompanying warm temperatures are forming temperature crusts on solar aspects.

The north winds have formed isolated areas of windslab on north aspects above tree line.

Avoiding cornices is a good idea at the best of times. These extended periods of positive temperatures in the alpine are further cause to avoid cornices.

Solar heating on east aspects in the morning, and south through west aspects after noon has not been a big issue yet, however, it should be considered.

The avalanche danger rating is LOW on Wednesday Feb. 12. A change in the weather pattern may be in the works as we move into next week. Keep in touch through www.avalanche.ca or 604-938-7676.