Wind slabs may linger at higher elevations. Use caution when entering into lee or cross-loaded terrain features.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Thursday
Weather Forecast
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Mainly cloudy with flurries, accumulation of 5 cm, moderate south winds, alpine temperature -5 CTHURSDAY: Scattered flurries, moderate southwest winds, alpine temperature -5 C, freezing level 1200mFRIDAY: Cloudy with sunny periods, light south winds, alpine temperature -1 C, freezing level 1400 mSATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, light southwest winds, alpine temperature 1 C, freezing level 1200 m
Avalanche Summary
A few wind slab avalanches were observed in the region on Monday. They were large (size 2) and were triggered naturally in alpine terrain on northerly aspects.
Snowpack Summary
Wind slabs are reported as being widespread and reactive at treeline and alpine elevations. Below treeline, recent snow is likely settling and gaining strength.There are a few deeper weaknesses in the snowpack. Professionals are still tracking a layer around 150 to 200 cm deep, composed of sugary faceted grains, feathery surface hoar, and a sun crust. The base of the snowpack may also still be composed of weak faceted grains in parts of the region. The likelihood of triggering these deep weak layers is low and would most likely be triggered by humans in areas where the snowpack is shallow.
mbender,
Avalanche Canada
