Wind slabs are the most likely avalanche problem to trigger.
We have lingering uncertainty about buried weak layers. Uncertainty is best managed through conservative terrain choices.
Recently formed wind slabs may be reactive to riders in leeward terrain features at upper elevations. They may slide especially easily where they sit over a crust.
We have uncertainty about both the distribution and reactivity of a few weak layers buried 1-1.5 m deep . They may remain problematic in isolated areas but we expect they are becoming less likely to trigger under current conditions.
There have been no avalanche observations since the widespread natural avalanche cycle during the storm on the weekend. These included:
Storm and wind slabs size 2-3, on northeast to southeast aspects at alpine and treeline elevations.
Several size 3 persistent slab avalanches suspected to have run on the February crust layer. These observations were concentrated at treeline elevation in the east of the region.
10-30 cm of dry snow accumulates over firm surfaces including a crust below 1700 m.
A few layers buried between late January and mid February, consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or crust, are buried roughly 100 to 150 cm deep. We have uncertainty about both the distribution and reactivity of these layers in the region. They may remain problematic in isolated areas but we expect they are becoming less likely to trigger under current conditions.
The remainder of the snowpack is well consolidated, with no other significant layers of concern.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy. 3 to 10 cm of snow. 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 2 to 5 cm of snow. 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.
Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. 4 to 10 cm of snow. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.
Friday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 3 cm of snow. 30 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -11 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
