Snowpack Update Evening Ridge, Nelson BC - Nov 26 2024
Date: November 26, 2024
Submission by: Judson Wright, ACMG Guide, Lead Guide & Owner at Kootenay Backcountry Guides
Location: Evening Ridge
Aspect: East
Elevation: 2000m
We were below tree line in an open grassy meadow.
SNOWPACK DEPTHS:
Over the last week the Snowpack in the Kootenays has grown significantly with 50-70cm of storm snow. At 1500m there is 100-120cm and at 2000m there is 150-180cm.
SNOWPACK LAYERING:
Between Sunday November 24th and Monday November 25th, approximately 30cm of cold smoke fell. This landed on a melt freeze crust that is present to 1750m. There are a couple of thin freezing rain layers in the upper half of the Snowpack. Surface hoar has been found in places down 50-70cm and it sits on a suncrust in some locations. At the base of the Snowpack 10-30 cm off the ground is a another crust that formed in mid November.
Avalanche Canada
Avalanche Canada has called for MOD (AT), MOD (TL), and LOW (BTL). Fresh and reactive wind slabs may form at treeline and above as westerly winds increase on Wednesday. Start conservative and watch for signs of instability like cracking or whumpfing. If you are going out into the field, please submit a MIN report and note any observations, avalanche activity, and snowpack conditions. This supports the entire backcountry community!
WHITEWATER SKI RESORT CLOSED NOV 26 - DEC 5 2024
As a reminder, Whitewater Ski Resort is CLOSED aka OFF LIMITS. The crews are busy getting everything prepared for opening day, please respect all signage and only park in designated areas. Please avoid the resort at this time and check out other areas like Kootenay Pass, Hummingbird, and Strawberry Pass near Rossland.
