Crowsnest North

Although a supportive surface crust reduces the likelihood of triggering an avalanche, use caution at higher elevations where the crust may be thinner, weaker, or absent.

A few large (size 2 to 3) avalanches occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday. These avalanches were initiated by very large triggers, such as explosives or snowcats, and failed approximately 50 to 150 cm deep on the November crust described in the snowpack summary.

Avalanche activity will be unlikely going forward with cooler temperatures and a widespread crust on the surface.

With the recent warm and wet conditions, a widespread surface crust is likely at all elevations, except for high alpine terrain, potentially.

A mid-November crust sits 50 to 100 cm deep. Below it, the snowpack contains multiple crusts, and in some areas, a weak, sugary facet layer exists near the ground.

Treeline snowpack depths range from roughly 50 to 100 cm, thinning quickly at lower elevations. In many areas, especially below treeline, slopes lack enough snow to cover ground roughness and produce avalanches.

Thursday Night
Cloudy. Trace amounts of snow. 40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

Friday
Cloudy. 3 to 4 cm of snow. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Saturday
Mostly cloudy. 2 to 3 cm of snow. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level rising to 2200 m by the end of the day.

Sunday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 2 mm of precipitation as snow or rain at treeline. 70 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 1 °C. Freezing level 2300 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• A hard crust on the snow surface will help strengthen the snowpack, but may cause tough travel conditions.
• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
• If triggered, wind slabs avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.