The current avalanche problems are variable across elevation bands and the forecast region. Dig down and investigate at all elevations before committing to avalanche terrain.
Variable wind directions have caused reverse loading. Strong to extreme winds in the past few days had a potential to create wind slabs farther down the slopes. Careful assessment is required with local terrain influences.
This layer is a rain crust up to 1950m and reactive to large loads. It could also be a problem layer above 1950m not as a crust but a density change interface. Typically this layer is down around 40cm.
Natural deep avalanches are getting less frequent yet it remains a low probability and high consequence event if you push your luck.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud.
Precipitation: Nil.
Alpine temperature: High -17 C.
Light ridge wind.
Freezing level at valley bottom.
Thursday
Cloudy with scattered flurries.
Accumulation: 5 cm.
Alpine temperature: Low -20 C, High -12 C.
Ridge wind southwest: 15 km/h.
Freezing level at valley bottom.
Up to 15 cm of new snow have been redistributed by strong SW then N winds. Cold temps continue to promote faceting. The mid-pack is supportive with the Dec 1st interface down 40cm as a rain crust below 1950m and possibly a density change interface above 1950m. Basal faceting continues near or on the ground.
One large avalanche was reported by the public over an ice climb on Mt. Wilson. See the MIN report.
