The avalanche danger rating in alpine areas is currently rated as considerable or as a three on the avalanche advisory danger rating system. Forecasters believe that by Wednesday the rating in the backcountry areas around Whistler is going to push up to four. High avalanche probability is expected as more snow Tuesday, Jan. 8 and Wednesday, Jan. 9 drops onto about 20 to 40cm of snow sitting on top of old surfaces built up from early season snowfalls.
The danger rating at the treeline is moderate to considerable with the expectation that by Wednesday those areas will also become increasingly dangerous and become high-risk areas.
Below the treeline the safety concerns decrease with moderate to considerable risk through to Wednesday.
According to Whistler Blackcomb, backcountry travellers should be well prepared. Avalanche transceivers set on the 457 KHz frequency should be carried in the backcountry. Self-rescue equipment is a must for all backcountry users.
The avalanche advisories posted by Whistler Blackcomb and the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) are updated regularly. The CAC plans to update its bulletin today (Monday) at 10 p.m.
