Northwest Inland

Check for signs of wind slab instability before committing to large features.

Consider the consequences of any fall in steep or exposed terrain.

On Sunday, north and west of Smithers, small loose avalanches, cracking of the surface snow around skis, and a small, human triggered storm slab avalanche were all reported. This was occurring in recent, soft snow over a hard crust.

Looking forward, small instabilities like this aren't too concerning without increased loading from new snow or wind.

If you are getting out in the backcountry, consider making a post on the MIN (Mountain Information Network).

20 to 40 cm of soft, recent snow has buried a widespread crust. Continued moderate to strong winds have likely scoured surfaces down to the crust in most windward terrain while forming deeper deposits of snow in leeward terrain.

Previously problematic layers deeper in the snowpack appear to have bonded and strengthened, however, there is a low likelihood that they could remain a risk in steep, north-facing, alpine terrain.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy. 5 to 10 cm of snow expected, but only 1-3 around Smithers and Telkwa. Moderate to strong southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline low around -7 °C.

Tuesday

Mostly cloudy. 0 to 5 cm of snow expected above 800 m. Light to moderate west or southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -3 °C.

Wednesday

Mostly cloudy. 2 to 5 cm of snow expected above 1000 m. Moderate southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -1 °C.

Thursday

Mostly cloudy. 3 to 7 cm of snow expected above 1200 m. Light southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline high around 1 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Start with conservative lines and watch for clues of instability.
• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Look for signs of instability: whumphing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches.