Avoid steep slopes that are getting baked in the sun.
Expect variable snowpack conditions as we transition from winter to spring.
During periods of daytime warming and sunshine, expect the surface snow to be unstable on slopes that face the sun.
A wet storm added a lot of moisture and heat to the upper snowpack earlier this week.
If you see signs of loose wet instability, like snow that feels like a slurpy, or clumps up and pinwheels down a slope, move to less steep and more shaded terrain.
No new avalanches were reported before 4pm on Friday.
We expect that anywhere that was sunny on Thursday or Friday would have seen numerous, small, wet loose avalanches triggered by the sun on steep slopes.
On Monday and Tuesday, in the Fernie area. Warming and rain induced a widespread, naturally triggered, loose wet avalanche cycle. This included several large (size 2-2.5), avalanches and one large (size 2.5) glide slab.
If you head out in the backcountry, let us know what you are seeing by submitting a report to the Mountain Information Network.
Dynamic spring weather has resulted in variable snow surface conditions. A wet storm earlier in the week soaked the upper snowpack. Cold overnight temperatures have turned this moist snow into a frozen crust, except in areas where dry snow covered and insulated it.
The mid snowpack is generally settled and strong, except in areas with snow depths less than 150 cm. In these lower snow areas, the mid-pack is likely weaker and more faceted.
Below treeline, expect to find moist or refrozen surfaces, and a shrinking snowpack that is isothermal during the heat of the day.
The lower snowpack includes a layer of weak sugary crystals near the ground. This layer has shown signs of gaining strength, and it has not produced recent avalanche activity in this area.
Friday Night
Clear, no new snow expected. Freezing level falling to valley bottom. Treeline low around -5°C. Light southwest ridgetop wind.
Saturday
Sunny. No new snow expected. Freezing level rising to 2100 m. Treeline high around 1°C. Light southwest ridgetop wind.
Sunday
Mostly cloudy. Light precipitation expected. Snow/rain line around 1500 m overnight, rising to 2000 m. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind.
Monday
Cloudy overnight, 5-10 cm of snow expected, 15 cm or more in isolated areas around Fernie. Mostly sunny through the day. Snow/rain line at valley bottom overnight, rising to 1200 m. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind, trending to strong at high elevations.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
