Avalanche Forecast

No new avalanches have been reported since last week.

A natural size 2.5 wind slab avalanche was reported from the Castle area on February 12th. It was believed to be 48-72hrs old and occurred in the immediate leeward side of a large, wind loaded north facing alpine feature.

10-25cm of new, low density powder (the higher amounts are in southern areas) overlies extensive wind effect in the alpine and at tree line. Wind slabs of various ages in lee areas (typically easterly aspects) and scouring in windward areas. A melt-freeze crust can be found below 2100 m. It may be on the surface on windward slopes and buried 30 to 60 cm deep in lee terrain.

The middle of the snowpack is consolidated. Weak faceted grains exist near the base of the snowpack.

The average snowpack depth is 130 cm. Up to 200 cm can be found in wind-loaded areas.

Tuesday night

Mostly clear. Wind from the southwest at 20 km/h. Temperature -10˚C.

Wednesday

Clear. Wind from the southwest 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h at higher elevations. Temperature -12˚C in the morning rising to -4˚C in the afternoon. Freezing levels as high as 1000 m.

Mostly clear. Winds from the southwest 20 km/h gusting to 50 km/h. Temperatures between -7˚C and -3˚C with freezing levels rising to 1400 m.

A mix of sun and cloud with potential for flurries delivering 2-4 cm of snow. Winds from the southwest at 25 km/h. Temperature -5˚C with freezing levels around 1200 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Small avalanches can have serious consequences in extreme terrain. Carefully evaluate your line for wind slab hazard before you commit to it.
• Loose avalanches may start small but they can grow and push you into dangerous terrain.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.