Purcells

Wind slabs may be reactive in leeward terrain features in the alpine.

Concern remains for a weak layer near the base of the snowpack in shallow areas with facets over a crust.

On Tuesday, a small (size 1.5) natural deep persistent avalanche occurred near Invermere. It was on a northeast aspect in the alpine.

Treeline snow depths are generally 50 to 70 cm, with deeper wind-loaded pockets in the alpine. New surface hoar is growing on the surface in sheltered terrain. Wind-affected surfaces are expected in exposed terrain at higher elevations. A new sun crust is likely forming on steep, sun-exposed slopes.

In the Invermere area, weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack has caused several small but notable deep persistent slab avalanches.

Early-season hazards are present at all elevations. Stay alert and assess terrain carefully.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

Friday

A mix of sun and cloud. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.

Saturday

Cloudy with up to 15 cm of snow. 30 to 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.

Sunday

A mix of sun and cloud with up to 2 cm of snow. 20 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Be careful with wind-loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and rollovers.
• Be mindful that deep instabilities are still present in the snowpack.
• Triggering deep layers is more likely if the snow surface didn't freeze overnight.