Spatial variability is currently very pronounced within our forecast area. The best riding conditions, as well as the safest conditions, are found below treeline. We recommend continuing to avoid areas where snow has been wind-loaded for the time being.
Due to recent strong to extreme winds, wind slabs have formed lower on the slopes. There has also been significant cross-loading. The wind slabs remain reactive to skier triggering and range from 10 to 40 cm in thickness.
Several avalanches were reported over the weekend on the Mountain Information Network. They occurred on north and northeast aspects and were 10 to 30 cm thick.
One of the avalanches that occurred on the Patrollers’ Wall is particularly noteworthy, as the surface snow that released stepped down and triggered a deeper buried weak layer.
If you head into the backcountry, thanks for sharing your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).
The extreme winds over the weekend significantly affected the snowpack in alpine terrain and at treeline. At the surface, conditions are highly variable, with wind-hardened snow, powder, wind slabs of varying densities, and scoured areas on west-facing slopes.
Below treeline, there are 20 to 40 cm of light surface snow resting on a progressively denser snowpack, down to weak layers of faceted crystals and depth hoar at the base.
At mid-mountain, the average snowpack depth is approximately 125 cm.
WEATHER FOR THE CHIC-CHOCS RIDGES AND PEAKS
Another cold day is expected in the mountains on Monday, with a wind chill of -34°C.
Sunday evening and overnight: Partly cloudy. Northwest wind 30 to 50 km/h. Low -25°C.
Monday: A mix of sun and cloud. West wind 30 to 50 km/h. High -19°C.
Tuesday: A mix of sun and cloud. West wind 20 to 40 km/h. High -11°C.
Wednesday: Intermittent snow. Accumulation of 6 to 8 cm. West wind 40 to 60 km/h. High -7°C.
For more details, see the Chic-Chocs alpine weather forecast.
