Carefully assess for wind slabs before committing to a slope.
Wind slabs may stay unstable longer than expected due to a weak layer and a crust underneath.
10 to 20 cm of new snow and southwest wind have formed wind slabs in open areas. The recent snow overlies a persistent weak layer over a crust, making it potentially reactive to riders.
On Friday, dry loose and storm slab avalanches (up to size 2) were reported in steep, north-facing terrain. These avalanches were triggered naturally and by skiers throughout the region.
If you are heading into the backcountry, please consider sharing your observations on the Mountain Information Network.
10 to 20 cm of snow now overlies the late January surface hoar/crust layer. This snow has been accompanied by strong south and west wind, meaning that the crust is still on the surface on southerly aspects and deeper deposits will be found on north and east aspects.
The late January surface hoar layer is widespread up to 2100 meters on sheltered treeline and below treeline features. It may not exist on exposed terrain in the alpine.
The snow surface could be moist or refrozen on steep south aspects due to solar input.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy. 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.
Sunday
Mostly cloudy. 2 to 4 cm of snow at treeline. 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1800 m.
Monday
Mostly cloudy. 2 to 4 cm of snow at treeline. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.
Tuesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 2000 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
