Avalanche Forecast

High

A large avalanche cycle occurred on Monday and likely into Tuesday. With many storm slabs stepping down to deep weak layers, causing very large avalanches, up to size 4.

In the southeast of the region on Monday, there was a fatal avalanche incident. A group was hit by a large (size 3) natural persistent slab avalanche.

Up to 50 cm of recent snow is rapidly warming and expected to see the sun for the first time. The upper snowpack is expected to become moist and wet.

There is a significant concern for avalanches in motion to step down to deeper, persistent weak layers. These consist of surface hoar, facets, or a crust:

• Early-March layer down 80–120 cm. This is the primary persistent layer of concern.

• Mid-February & Late-January layers down 100–200 cm. Warm temperatures and sunshine may trigger these deep layers. Likewise, large triggers, like cornice fall or avalanches in motion, could step down.

Tuesday Night

Cloudy with 0 to 10 mm/cm of rain/snow. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 2400 m.

Wednesday

A mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 3 °C. Freezing level 3000 m.

Thursday

Cloudy with 10 to 30 mm/cm of rain/snow. 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level falling to 2000 m.

Friday

Mostly cloudy with 5 to 15 mm/cm of rain/snow. 10 to 20 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1800 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Only the most simple non-avalanche terrain with no overhead hazard is appropriate at this time.
• Even brief periods of direct sun could produce natural avalanches.
• Storm slab size and sensitivity to triggering will likely increase through the day.
• Avoid the runout zones of avalanche paths. Avalanches could run full path.