The Little Yoho region is expected to receive the most snow from this system, with 20-30 cm forecast by Sunday. This new snow may bond poorly to the old faceted surface snow. Careful assessment of storm snow amounts is crucial before committing to avalanche terrain.
Dry loose avalanches are expected in steep and gulled terrain as the new snow accumulates over the old faceted surface snow. Ice climbers in particular should be wary of these sluffs in steep terrain.
New snow, combined with moderate to strong winds, will create fresh slabs at upper elevations. These new surface slabs are expected to bond poorly to the old surface snow.
No new slab avalanches were observed or reported on Friday. Local ski hills have primarily reported loose dry avalanche activity, typically triggered by ski cuts.
15-30 cm of new snow has arrived with more expected. The layer being buried is a mix of crust, surface hoar and facets, we do not expect the new snow to bond well to these old surfaces. The mid and lower snowpack is well settle with snowpack depths at tree line ranging from 120cm - 180cm.
A westerly flow will continue to bring precipitation to the forecast region over the weekend, with an additional 10 to 30 cm of snow expected by Sunday. Moderate to strong winds will accompany the new snow at ridge crests. Temperatures will gradually cool as an arctic air mass moves in, and by early next week, temperatures will plummet, with nighttime lows approaching -30°C.
