Northwest Inland

50-100 cm of recent snow and strong southwest winds have formed large wind slabs that may continue to be reactive to human triggers.

The best and safest riding will likely be in sheltered terrain where recent snow hasn't been wind-affected.

No avalanches were reported in this region on Saturday, but they likely occurred given the intense snow and wind. Please post your observations to the MIN. (Mountain Information Network)

Check out this MIN of a naturally triggered size 3 wind slab avalanche that was reported near Smithers on Friday.

20-35 cm of new snow on Saturday brings recent snow amounts to 50-100 cm at treeline and above. Strong southwest ridgetop winds have created thick wind slabs on lee aspects.

The recent snow overlies a variety of problematic snow surfaces including facets and crusts. The snowpack below the recent snow is generally shallow and weak.

The depth of the snowpack at treeline varies from 80-140 cm and tapers rapidly below treeline.

Many early-season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks exist below treeline.

Sunday Night

Clear skies / Light east ridgetop winds / Low temperature at treeline -18 C

Monday

Sunny / Light northeast ridgetop winds / High temperature at treeline -13 C

Mostly cloudy with isolated flurries; 0-3 cm / Moderate south ridgetop winds / High temperature at treeline -16 C

Sunny / Strong northeast ridgetop winds / High temperature at treeline -20 C

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Expect slab conditions to change drastically as you move into wind exposed terrain.
• Watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks or recent avalanches.
• Seek out sheltered terrain where new snow hasn't been wind-affected.