Heavy snowfall and strong / extreme wind on Monday will cause the avalanche hazard to rise rapidly.
Storm intensity will ramp up around Noon so don't get caught by surprise. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended.
Rapid loading and strong - extreme southwest wind will rapidly load slopes forming reactive slabs. Avoid avalanche terrain on Monday.
A natural avalanche cycle has started in steep alpine terrain. Natural activity is expected to increase dramatically on Monday afternoon/ evening as the storm intensifies.
About 50 cm of snow (and counting) is covering a decomposing surface hoar layer in sheltered treeline areas, a thin rime crust on all aspects, and previous wind effect in open alpine terrain.
A rain crust is down 50-90cm in the snowpack, and exists up to approximately 2200m.
Storm intensifies with highest snowfall amounts overnight Monday
Tonight Flurries, 7cm. Winds SW-30km/h gusting 60. Alpine low -7°C, Freezing level (FZL) 1100m.
Monday Snow, heavy at times. 29cm. High -3. FZL 800m. Wind SW 25km/h gusting to 60 km/h
Tues Snow, 13cm. High -5°C, FZL 1300m. Wind SW 25 gusting 90.
Wed Flurries, 8cm. Low -8, FZL 1200. Wind SW-15 gusting to 50km/h.
