North Rockies

Avalanche hazard is low with generally safe avalanche conditions.

A hard melt-freeze crust and the resulting tough travel conditions is likely the greatest hazard currently.

High

• Confidence is due to a stable weather pattern with little change expected.

No new avalanches have been reported in the past 3 days.

Thanks to everyone who has filled out a Mountain Information Network report.

A widespread melt-freeze crust extends up to at least 2200 m, this crust is likely breakable above 2000 m. On shady aspects in the alpine, dry snow is wind affected and firm. Cornices are large and overhanging.

The snow surface is expected to become moist on sun exposed slopes.

The prominent mid-December facet/crust layer is buried over 1 m deep and extends up to 2200 m. Triggering the crust is considered unlikely, except with large loads or in thin snowpack areas.

Tuesday Night
Mostly clear skies. 20 to 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

Wednesday
Sunny. 10 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

Thursday
Mostly sunny. 30 to 50 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -15°C.

Friday
Mostly sunny. 30 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Make observations and continually assess conditions as you travel.
• The snowpack is generally stable; it may be appropriate to step out into more complex terrain.
• A hard crust on the snow surface will help strengthen the snowpack, but may cause tough travel conditions.