Wind slabs remain possible to human trigger.
Avoid steep, rocky, and wind affected areas where triggering slabs is most likely.
20 to 30 cm of recent snow and extreme southwest winds formed wind slabs on lee aspects at upper elevations. These slabs are most likely to be reactive on steep slopes below ridgetops.
Expect the sun to trigger wet loose avalanches on steep slopes when the recent snow is warmed for the first time.
On Wednesday, several naturally triggered wet loose avalanches up to size 1.5 were reported below treeline.
Last week's rain and warm temperatures triggered a widespread natural slab avalanche cycle up to size 3.
If you are heading into the backcountry, please consider sharing conditions via the MIN.
20 to 30 cm of recent snow and extreme southwest winds formed wind slabs on lee aspects at upper elevations. These slabs are most likely to be reactive on steep slopes below ridgetops. The recent snow sits on a thick crust.
The snowpack below is moist to ground and well settled in most locations, except northerly aspects in the alpine.
The snowpack depth tapers rapidly at lower elevations.
Thursday Night
Clear skies. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.
Friday
Sunny. 60 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
Saturday
Sunny. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1900 m.
Sunday
Mix of sun and clouds. 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
