Avalanche hazard will remain high with forecast warm temperatures and sunshine.
Expect increased natural and human triggered avalanche activity.
20 to 40 cm of heavy storm snow sits over a widespread weak layer. This layer is reactive to rider triggering, including remote triggers. Use extra caution in steep terrain and unsupported features.
Wet loose avalanches are likely with warm temperatures and solar inputs. If triggered, avalanches will run far on a widespread crust. Avalanches are more likely in solar facing terrain under clear skies.
As field teams and visitors tread lightly in the park, rider triggering continues on the late January surface hoar. Avalanche have been more prevalent below treeline and in unsupported terrain. See the MIN in Connaught creek on Tuesday of a rider remote avalanche, size 1.5.
Loose avalanches triggered by sun and warm temperatures are very likely on Thursday and Friday. Warm temperatures also increase the likelihood of rider triggering.
Forecast significant warming will turn the snow surface heavy and wet increasing slab cohesion. Roughly 30cm beneath the surface is the late Jan weak layer of surface hoar, facets and a crust. This layer is found on all aspects and elevations with largest surface hoar (up to 40mm) in sheltered areas below treeline. The crust is firmer on solar aspects.
The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong.
Unseasonal high temperatures and strong solar inputs Thursday and Friday. A return to winter on Saturday with snow and falling freezing levels.
Tonight: Cloudy. Alp low 1°C. Wind SW 30km/h. (FZL) 1600m, weak inversion
Thurs: Sun & cloud. High 6°C. Wind SW 10-30 km/h. FZL 3000m.
Fri: Sun & cloud. High 6°C. Wind SW 20 km/h. FZL 3000m.
Sat: Flurries, 10-15 cm. High -1°C. Wind SW 20-40 km/h. FZL 1600m.
