Active avalanche conditions at Cain

Quick report

AvCan Vancouver Island · Mar 3, 2022 · North Island

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Quick report

Weather
stormy, warm
Ride Type
mellowSlopes
Stayed Away
alpineSlopes, steepSlopes
Riding Quality
Amazing
Snow Conditions
deepPowder, heavy
Avalanche Conditions
avalancheConditionSlab, avalancheConditionSnow, avalancheConditionSound, avalancheConditionTemp

After seeing 28 cm of new snow at the lower Cain weather station (and not much anywhere else) we headed up to check on conditions. Looking around as we ascended, we saw natural releases up to size 2, had cracks shooting out from our tracks, and found lots of new and touchy cornices. Wind loading and scouring had been ongoing but we didn't see much more than light south wind during the day, along with short, intense snow squalls. Once the sun poked out for a few seconds it was go time for avalanches! Tree bombs initiated tons of point releases on nearby terrain and the snow began feeling very upside-down and heavy. Larger releases were probably happening but our visibility was limited. Great day to ski a groomer with 30 cm on it!

3 photos