Complex and dangerous avalanche conditions persist, with more precipitation and a chance of above-freezing temperatures in some areas.
Strong winds and more snow are expected to build deep, reactive wind slabs near ridgelines and steep open terrain. Mild temperatures could increase their reactivity.
Rain and above-freezing temperatures will weaken surface snow in steep terrain, potentially affecting all elevations.
Avalanche Summary added Friday at 6:45 AM Pacific:
Observers in the McBride and McGregor areas on Thursday reported no new avalanches, but noted evidence of wet loose avalanches from earlier this week (up to size 2.5).
Following last weekend's snowfall, surface conditions continue to change, with 40 to 80 cm of recent storm snow settling quickly due to warming and rain. The deepest amounts are in Pine Pass and McGregor areas. Recent snow presents several potential weaknesses including wet snow from warming and wind slabs from strong winds. There may also be a poor bond to underlying layers, especially in the northern Cariboos and Renshaw areas, though data is limited.
The lower snowpack contains a widespread crust from early-November, possibly with weak facets around it. Its distribution and reactivity are unclear, and it is uncertain if avalanches are failing on this layer.
Treeline snow depths range from 60 to 200 cm.
Thursday Night
Mostly cloudy. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C.
Friday
Cloudy with precipitation increasing in intensity throughout the day. 10 to 20 cm in most areas, with 0 to 5 cm of snow on the eastern slopes. Snow is expected at roughly 1200 m and above, with rain at lower elevations. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C.
Saturday
Mostly cloudy with 5 to 15 cm of snow in most areas, with 1 to 3 cm of snow on the eastern slopes. Snow is expected at roughly 1200 m and above, with rain at lower elevations. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature around -1 °C. Freezing level around 1300 m.
Sunday
Mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
