Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

One size 1 human triggered avalanche was reported in the east Purcells. This avalanche was at treeline on a west aspect and ran on the facets at the base of the snowpack.

Observations are limited this time of year, please consider filling out a MIN report.

Surface conditions are variable. A sun crust can be found on some steep south and west facing slopes.  In the alpine and on exposed treeline features a mix of wind scouring and loading can be found from previous southwest winds.

Another crust with facets or depth hoar exists at or near the ground. In general the snowpack is shallower than average for this time of year with depths at treeline ranging from 20 to 50 cm. Snowpack depths taper rapidly below treeline.

Friday Night

Increasing cloud with no new snow expected, northwest alpine wind 20 to 40 km/h, treeline temperatures falling to -16°C.

Saturday

Potential for valley fog in the morning followed by mostly sunny skies and no new snow expected, northwest alpine winds 10 to 40 km/h, treeline temperature -11°C.

Sunday

Mostly sunny skies with no new snow expected, northwest alpine winds 20 to 40 km/h, treeline temperature -10°C.

Monday

Mostly clear skies with no new snow expected, west alpine winds 25 to 40 km/h, treeline temperature -11°C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche danger is often elevated in alpine gullies where snow has accumulated.
• If triggered, wind slabs avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.
• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind loaded snow.
• Early season avalanches at any elevation have the potential to be particularly dangerous due to obstacles that are exposed or just below the surface.