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Mountain Conditions and Weather Report
Whistler Mountain
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Date: 2026-01-07 | Time: 2341
Location: Whistler_Blackcomb
Avalanche Observations and Summary:
• Three Size 2 events were recorded on Whistler Mountain: two wind slab avalanches (one mid-path triggered heading to flats below Moraine, one from cornice debris) and one cornice avalanche.
• Explosive (Xe) triggers indicate potential for similar or larger skier-triggered or natural releases.
Snowpack Description:
Recent 13–50 cm low-density snow lies atop surface hoar layers and melt-freeze crusts. Wind slabs (1F to 4F) are observed on ridges and sheltered areas. Persistent weak layers include thin faceted snow above crusts, requiring continued stability monitoring.
Previous Avalanche Hazard Assessment and Stability:
Alpine: Considerable
TL: Moderate
BTL: Moderate
Signs of Instability: Cracking and sluggish initiation noted in lee terrain; observed explosive triggers and propagation in areas with wind slab and cornice formations.
Current Avalanche Problems:
Problem 1: Storm Slab
• Typical Size: 1.5–2.0
• Typical Depth: 10–80 cm
• Sensitivity: Mostly Stubborn with some Reactive
• Distribution: Widespread to Specific, also Isolated
Problem 2: Wind Slab
• Typical Size: 1.0–2.0
• Typical Depth: 10–70 cm
• Sensitivity: Mostly Reactive, some Stubborn
• Distribution: Specific to Isolated
Problem 3: No additional distinct problem type reported.
Comments: Cracking has been observed with sluggish initiation. Caution is advised in steep, wind-loaded and lee terrain.
Previous Reports:
Yesterday, operators covered multiple zones on the Coast Mountains. They skied in lee and ridge areas, reporting variable slab activity and cornice concerns.
Key Actions and Safety Considerations:
• • Avoid exposed lee slopes and areas with recent explosive avalanche activity.
• • Monitor persistent weak layers (buried SH) and wind slab zones.
• • Use conservative terrain choices and precise route selection.
Closing Summary:
Focus on sheltered, wind-protected areas while cautiously navigating slopes with recent wind slab and cornice activity. Maintain vigilance when assessing cracking and weak layer zones for safe backcountry travel.
Location: Whistler_Blackcomb
Avalanche Observations and Summary:
• Three Size 2 events were recorded on Whistler Mountain: two wind slab avalanches (one mid-path triggered heading to flats below Moraine, one from cornice debris) and one cornice avalanche.
• Explosive (Xe) triggers indicate potential for similar or larger skier-triggered or natural releases.
Snowpack Description:
Recent 13–50 cm low-density snow lies atop surface hoar layers and melt-freeze crusts. Wind slabs (1F to 4F) are observed on ridges and sheltered areas. Persistent weak layers include thin faceted snow above crusts, requiring continued stability monitoring.
Previous Avalanche Hazard Assessment and Stability:
Alpine: Considerable
TL: Moderate
BTL: Moderate
Signs of Instability: Cracking and sluggish initiation noted in lee terrain; observed explosive triggers and propagation in areas with wind slab and cornice formations.
Current Avalanche Problems:
Problem 1: Storm Slab
• Typical Size: 1.5–2.0
• Typical Depth: 10–80 cm
• Sensitivity: Mostly Stubborn with some Reactive
• Distribution: Widespread to Specific, also Isolated
Problem 2: Wind Slab
• Typical Size: 1.0–2.0
• Typical Depth: 10–70 cm
• Sensitivity: Mostly Reactive, some Stubborn
• Distribution: Specific to Isolated
Problem 3: No additional distinct problem type reported.
Comments: Cracking has been observed with sluggish initiation. Caution is advised in steep, wind-loaded and lee terrain.
Previous Reports:
Yesterday, operators covered multiple zones on the Coast Mountains. They skied in lee and ridge areas, reporting variable slab activity and cornice concerns.
Key Actions and Safety Considerations:
• • Avoid exposed lee slopes and areas with recent explosive avalanche activity.
• • Monitor persistent weak layers (buried SH) and wind slab zones.
• • Use conservative terrain choices and precise route selection.
Closing Summary:
Focus on sheltered, wind-protected areas while cautiously navigating slopes with recent wind slab and cornice activity. Maintain vigilance when assessing cracking and weak layer zones for safe backcountry travel.
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