A snowfall warning is in effect for the Sea to Sky from Squamish to Whistler, and Avalanche Canada’s danger rating is high.
Environment Canada is calling for up to 20 centimetres of snow today, Friday, Jan. 31, throughout the day and through to this evening. The heaviest snowfall is expected in the morning.
Snow tires are legally required for travel on the Sea to Sky highway, and road conditions are found on DriveBC.
For anyone heading into the backcountry, be prepared to shift your mindset. Avalanche Canada’s forecast for the Coast Mountains shows high avalanche danger ratings today in the alpine and treeline, with considerable danger below the treeline. The danger level of four indicates “very dangerous avalanche conditions,” and travel through terrain is not recommended. Natural avalanches are likely, and human-triggered are very likely.
“Widespread reactive storm slabs ate expected to build at all elevations overnight and throughout Friday,” the website notes.
While there’s no reporting of recent avalanches, the danger rating was low for a long period because of warm and dry conditions.
“New snow is rapidly accumulating, creating reactive storm slabs. By late Friday afternoon, storm totals are expected to reach 25 to 40 cm, accompanied by strong southwesterly winds at ridgetops. This new snow is falling on a hard crust in most areas, and on facets on upper-elevation north-facing slopes. Our biggest concern will be how quickly the new snow will bond—we expect it to take several days or longer. Otherwise, the mid and lower snowpack remains dense, well-settled, and free of concerning layers.”
