Watch for changing conditions as you change aspect and elevation.
The highest avalanche danger will be on wind-loaded slopes, and steep slopes seeing intense spring sun.
Slab avalanches continue to be reported in high elevation north facing terrain despite a couple days of sun and above 0 temperatures in the alpine. If you are hunting for winter snow, you may find this problem.
Cornices are large, looming, and can trigger large avalanches on the slopes below. Cornices will become increasingly fragile as temperatures rise.
With above zero temperatures remaining into the alpine overnight, expect surface snow to remain wet or moist on all aspects. Wet avalanches will be largest and most likely in the heat of the afternoon on slopes facing the sun.
On Sunday, northwest of Revelstoke, a large (size 2) human triggered slab avalanche was reported on a northeast aspect in the alpine (see photo below). Also, a widespread large (up to size 2.5) natural wet loose avalanche cycle was reported on steep slopes facing the sun.
On Saturday, two large (size 2) human triggered avalanches were reported in steep, alpine terrain, as well as several small to large (size 1-2) dry and wet loose avalanches.
At upper elevations, wind, sun, and spring temperatures continue to impact 30 to 60 cm of recent powder. Sun and rising freezing levels will turn snow moist during the day, warm temperatures overnight will likely prevent a strong crust from forming.
The recent snow sits on a hard crust on all aspects to at least 2500 m.
The mid and lower snowpack is well settled and strong.
Check out this Conditions Update for tips on managing the current spring conditions.
Monday Night
Partly cloudy. 1 mm of rain at treeline. 20-40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline high 6 °C further northeast, 14 ° further southwest. Freezing level 2900 m.
Tuesday
Mostly sunny. 1 mm of rain at treeline. 10-25 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline high 6 °C further northeast, 14 ° further southwest. Freezing level 2900 m.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 3 mm of rain at treeline. 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 3 °C. Freezing level 2400 m.
Thursday
Mostly sunny. 2 to 4 cm of snow. 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 1500 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
