Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Due to the number of field observations

FRIDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / wind light to moderate north / alpine temperature -17 SATURDAY: Mainly sunny / wind moderate north / alpine temperature –16 SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / wind light to moderate north / alpine temperature -13

Numerous natural loose dry avalanches to size 1.5 have been reported running in steep terrain in recent days. These have been running in the recently fallen new snow. That being said, as this recent new snow sitting on top of a variety of weak layers continues to settle, expect avalanche activity to increase. If you have any observations, please submit them to the Mountain Information Network (MIN).

20-40cm of new snow accumulating through last weekend sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be likely to trigger. A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.