Backcountry Update

AS OF TUESDAY JAN. 31

After a period of cold temperatures, stormy conditions are expected this weekend for the Whistler area. This storm will likely result in the typical spike in increased avalanche hazard. What’s less typical is that the new storm snow will bury a widespread melt-freeze crust in most locations. This crust is reported to have undergone some faceting with the recent cold temperatures. Snow often weakens when exposed to cold temperatures and it’s likely the layer of snow above the crust is weak. This weak layer on top of the crust could result in the new storm snow taking longer than normal to bond. As a result, conservative decision-making will likely be necessary for longer than usual.

Advice for backcountry users this weekend is to watch for signs of instabilities such as cracking and whumpfing. Avalanches and recent avalanche activity are the most obvious signs that the storm snow is unstable and avalanche terrain should be avoided. The best course of action during this stormy weather is to stick to low-angle terrain and avoid overhead hazards, especially in areas where a natural avalanche could occur. As periods of strong winds are expected during the storm, wind-loaded areas are likely to be highly unstable and should be avoided.

After last week’s crusty surfaces and relatively poor skiing conditions, it is maybe tempting to take advantage of the new snow and push into bigger terrain. However, it is important to remember that a weakness exists below the new snow and a conservative mindset will be important. The snowpack will require some time to settle and stabilize. Make sure you check the daily forecast at avalanche. ca for the most up-to-date information. n

CONDITIONS MAY VARY AND CAN CHANGE RAPIDLY Check for the most current conditions before heading out into the backcountry. Daily updates for the areas adjacent to Whistler Blackcomb are available at 604-938-7676, or surf to www.whistlerblackcomb.com/mountaininfo/snow-report#backcountry or go to www.avalanche.ca.

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Letters To The Editor

the city from being turned into the kind of concrete jungle that L.A. and Seattle became. Yet this is what RMOW is about to do to Rainbow Park: put a paved road right through the waterfront. Hem-in park-goers with pavement.

In short, paving the park is a planning style that ought to be challenged, just as it has been elsewhere. We should be prioritizing green space, swimming, and safety at the waterfront, not a transportation corridor or “promenade.” tobias c. van Veen // Whistler

Waterfront access can be had with a horseshoe design that provides paved access to the new pier, without creating a paved oval through the park.

So while I (and many others!!) thank RMOW for upgrading the actual facilities, including improving the dog-park fencing, park access and parking (the new pier and parking are great!), as well as improving the volleyball courts, I simply ask: please do not ruin the beautiful waterfront of Rainbow Park with a paved-oval promenade. Please do not pave the park.

Thank you, RMOW. I feel that a horseshoe redesign will satisfy the needs for access, beach drainage, and other needs, while also respecting the heritage, vibe, and primary uses of the park by the Whistler community.

If you feel as I do, please make your voice heard by signing the petition, “Please Don’t Pave Rainbow Park,” which I plan to present to council at a future Q&A: https://chng.it/ xYKhxrn9FR.