South Coast Inland

Wind slab formation has been extensive and could extend into openings below treeline.

Seek out sheltered terrain where new snow hasn't been affected by wind.

Moderate

• We are uncertain due to a limited number of field observations.

On Thursday, numerous explosive triggered size 1 wind slabs were reported in the alpine.

10 to 20 cm of new snow and extreme southwest wind have formed wind slabs in open areas at all elevations. The recent snow overlies a persistent weak layer.

At treeline and above, this layer is primarily a hard crust with weak facets above and/or below.

In sheltered treeline locations and below, this layer may be a combination of hard crust and/or surface hoar.

Cornices are reported to be large and looming. Be mindful of them overhead or when travelling on ridge tops.

The mid/lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong.

Snowpack depth ranges between 150 to 250 cm at treeline elevations.

Friday Night
Mostly cloudy. 40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.

Saturday
Mostly cloudy. 0 to 5 cm of snow. 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1900 m.

Sunday
Mostly cloudy. 0 to 3 cm of snow. 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1800 m.

Monday
Mostly cloudy. 0 to 3 cm of snow. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1900 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Keep your guard up at all elevations. Wind slab formation has been extensive and could extend into openings below treeline.
• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation, aspect, and exposure to wind.
• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
• Seek out sheltered terrain where new snow hasn't been affected by wind.