Wind slabs remain triggerable on all aspects from recent variable winds
Check steep lines for signs of wind loading before dropping in, and keep safe travel habits in mind at all danger levels
Recent winds have formed slabs on all aspects; however, the most reactive are likely found in south to east facing terrain. Approach ridgelines, mid slope rolls and crossloaded features with caution.
On Sunday, explosives triggered wind slabs to size 3, while human triggered and natural avalanches reached size 2. Slabs occurred on all aspects; some involved cornice falls and others failed on the recent crust in the Monashees. This reflects a range of conditions throughout the region, and wind loading on all aspects.
Recent snowfall has been redistributed into deeper deposits at higher elevations by strong winds. In the Monashees, a crust is buried 30-40 cm deep.
The prominent mid December crust is buried up to 110 cm deep and extends to 2300 m. Several weak layers persist in the lower snowpack, but concern is limited to higher-elevation terrain where the crust above is absent. Triggering is considered unlikely, except with large loads.
Monday Night
Partly cloudy. 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.
Tuesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
Wednesday
Mostly sunny. 1 cm of snow. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. 20 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
