Assess the bond between wind slabs and the underlying crust before committing to steep terrain.
Strong sun could increase the likelihood of both natural and human-triggered avalanches.
Recent snow was accompanied by strong southerly winds, forming wind slabs in exposed terrain. These slabs may remain surprisingly reactive due to the underlying crust.
In the past week, a few small storm and wind slab avalanches were reported. These avalanches occurred predominantly at treeline, but one was triggered on a north aspect below treeline.
Observations are limited in this region. If you are heading into the backcountry, please post a MIN. Thank you to those who have been submitting!
Up to 15 cm of recent snowfall overlies wind-affected surfaces and wind slabs, found primarily on north through to east aspects.
A 10 to 20 cm thick crust, formed during the recent atmospheric river event, is now buried 30 to 60 cm below the surface. The exception is in wind-scoured alpine terrain, where this crust may remain exposed at the surface. It extends up to at least 2000 m in the northern part of the region and 2500 m in the south. Moist snow may still be present beneath this crust.
The early February crust is buried 100 to 160 cm deep and is not currently a concern.
Overall, the remaining snowpack is well settled and generally well bonded.
Sunday Night
Mostly clear skies. 1 to 4 cm of snow. 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.
Monday
Mix of sun and clouds. 2 cm of snow. 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.
Tuesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 2 cm of snow. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -9 °C.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 2 to 4 cm of snow. 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
