Rising freezing levels and clear skies are creating heightened avalanche danger on steep slopes.
Approach steep slopes with caution and back off if the surface becomes moist.
Wind slabs have developed over various surfaces of soft snow, surface hoar and old wind affected surfaces. Warm temperatures may increase the reactivity of these layers.
Recent storm snow will see its first warm temperatures following the cold temperatures over the weekend. Wet loose avalanches are more likely on steep south facing slopes while the sun is at its strongest.
No new avalanches were reported. As freezing levels rise human triggered slab avalanches are possible.
Reports of a surface hoar layer in the area at treeline could see small human triggered slab avalanches continue in sheltered terrain features.
Surface snow is variable, on steep solar facing slopes moist snow is present and on north facing slopes above 2000 m the snow remains dry and wind affected.
Within the upper snowpack a surface hoar layer can be found roughly 30 cm deep in sheltered treeline terrain.
A crust buried on December 16th is roughly 150 cm deep. Above 2200 m, this crust is absent and an old crust complex and faceted snow from November is found at the base of the snowpack.
Monday Night
Clear skies. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 1 °C. Freezing level 2200 m.
Tuesday
Mostly sunny. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 2 °C. Freezing level 2300 m.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 2 to 5 mm of precipitation as snow or rain at treeline. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 1 °C. Freezing level 1900 m.
Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. Isolated flurries 1 to 2 cm. 20 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
