The forecast snowfall is relatively light, but remain alert for small slabs of unstable snow in the alpine.
Be particularly cautious if the snowfall is heavier than forecasted.
On Friday, small wind slabs may be present near ridges, beneath convexities, and in areas with lateral loading. The extent of the problem will depend heavily on the amount of snow received. Also carefully assess old, firmer and more stuborn wind slabs before committing to a slope. These slabs could be triggered by a skier or snowboarder passing by.
No new avalanches reported or observed.
If you head into the backcountry, thanks for sharing your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).
Recent strong winds have significantly redistributed snow in alpine terrain and at the tree line. Several aspects are bare. On leeward slopes, there is a combination of wind-blown, compacted snow and layers of firm wind slabs.
In areas sheltered from the wind, the snowpack is gradually becoming denser in its upper and middle layers. However, cold temperatures have promoted a slow transformation of the grains into faceted grains throughout most of the snowpack. A layer composed exclusively of faceted grains is present locally at a depth of about 20 to 40 cm below the surface. For the moment, the low density of the snow covering it limits its fragility.
The crust from December 20 is buried at a depth varying between 60 and 100 cm depending on the area.
At the base of the snowpack, there is a complex stratigraphy composed of crusts, faceted grains, and depth hoar, extending to the ground.
The average thickness of the snowpack at mid-mountain is approximately 110 cm.
WEATHER FOR THE CHIC-CHOCS RIDGES AND PEAKS
A little snow before a weekend with milder temperatures and sunshine.
Thursday evening and night: Intermittent snow, 2 to 5 cm. Winds from the northwest at 15 to 30 km/h. Low -15°C.
Friday: Cloudy, light snow. Winds from the north at 20 to 40 km/h. High -14°C.
Saturday: Alternating sun and clouds. Winds from the northwest at 10 to 20 km/h. High -12°C.
Sunday: Alternating sun and clouds. Light winds from the northeast. High -10°C.
For more details, see the Chic-Chocs alpine weather forecast.
