CAC Bulletins DONE??

E-Zmoke

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This gets me every year? Why does the CAC stop posting Bulletins before the end of April? The snowpack in most regions is just starting to transition into spring. It is still snowing at higher elevations and raining at lower elevations. Freezing levels are constantly changing at this time of year. I understand it is harder to predict and forecast at this time of year but their is still a ton of riding to be had yet and something is always better then nothing. Sure would be nice if the CAC posted and updated bulletins intel mid June.
 

HRT Offroad

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A lot of the CAC's bulletin resources come from Heli and Cat ski ops...and they are all shut down at this time, leaving resources limited. This is the time of year that we really have to use our heads out there and make smart decisions.
 

ferniesnow

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It's quite simple actually: if the dirt is showing, it is safe to ride.But, be careful of the hanging cornices.

IMG_1089.jpg
 

Summiteer

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If there is a sign saying Caution Avalanche Danger! Don't sled there.


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Depsnolvr

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A lot of the CAC's bulletin resources come from Heli and Cat ski ops...and they are all shut down at this time, leaving resources limited. This is the time of year that we really have to use our heads out there and make smart decisions.


This is exactly correct. Without professional observations (which currently come mainly from Ski Operations), there is no data available to make a forecast from. We need to get more sledders trained up and sending along professional quality information late into April / May if we hope to get anything this late in the season.

But as for right now, the snowpack is oversaturated with all this rain and is not freezing overnight. I would be suspect of anything with a slope and be very careful not to expose myself to any potential runout.

Read the most recent blogs and they should help you a bit
Forecaster's Blog : Bulletins : Canadian Avalanche Centre : avalanche.ca

Ride safe and look up!
 

honda mike

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Perhaps we could have a forum for exchanging avalanche and snowpack observations on this site. A dedicated spot to share our info. Would be a start?
 

Depsnolvr

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Perhaps we could have a forum for exchanging avalanche and snowpack observations on this site. A dedicated spot to share our info. Would be a start?

I have suggested this a few times as well. We would have to take the data for what its worth as there is no control over the people who would potentially be submitting (training, quality etc) but any info that is used correctly and in the correct context is good info.

The best option is still to get the best training you can, practice, practice, practice and most importantly take what you have learned and use it to make your own observations and decisions in the areas you ride. This would likely take 20-45 min out of your riding day depending on how much info and how many places you felt it worthy to collect from. Use your first hand observations as well as other info collected from the CAC, forums, locals etc and to make the best decision possible.

It can be quite simple this time of year. If its been raining in the alpine for days without an overnight freeze............well ?
 
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