Keep the persistent slab problem on your mind at treeline and below.
Isolated natural avalanches were observed in Connaught creek and human triggering remains possible.
Watch for wind slab development near ridgetop and in exposed terrain at upper elevations. Wind slabs will be most reactive in areas where they sit over a crust.
A layer of surface hoar (up to 40mm at tree line & below) is buried 20-60cm deep and sits on a crust. The size and reactivity of this surface hoar layer is extremely variable depending on aspect and elevation. Wind sheltered areas at lower elevations is where triggering this problem is most likely.
Natural persistent slab avalanches up to size 1.5 were observed below treeline on steep unsupported slopes in Connaught creek on Sunday. Field teams also reported multiple wumps at 2100m and below.
A solar triggered, natural cycle was observed earlier this week along the highway corridor with avalanches up to size 3.0
10-20 cm of recent storm snow arrived with moderate to strong wind developing wind slabs in exposed terrain in the alpine and at treeline. Storm snow sits over a crust 20-40 deep most areas at upper elevations.
30-60cm beneath the surface is the late Jan weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and a crust. This layer is widespread with largest surface hoar in sheltered areas at treeline and below.
The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong.
Stable weather pattern.
Tonight: Cloudy with clear periods. Alp low -8°C. Wind light to 15 km/h. Freezing level (FZL) 500m.
Mon: Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries. Trace snow. High -8. Wind SW 15-30. FZL 1200m.
Tues: Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries. Trace snow. Wind SW 15-35 km/h. FZL 1200m
Wed: Cloudy with sunny periods. No snow. High -6. Wind light to 15. FZL 1100m.
