Danger ratings reflect conditions during the hottest part of the day. At times of cool temperatures, danger ratings will be lower.
Summary
Confidence
Fair - Freezing levels are uncertain
Weather Forecast
Expect warm and mainly dry weather for the next three days. The freezing level is forecast to spike up to around 2500 m on Saturday afternoon and stay there through Monday. Winds are light to moderate from the north.
Avalanche Summary
Several size 1-1.5 loose wet avalanches failed on steep sunny slopes yesterday. In the far north, two cornices collapsed and each triggered a size 3 slab on the slope below. Avalanche danger is expected to be lower in the cool parts of the day, and rise during warm, sunny periods. As temperatures rise, also keep in mind the possibility of glide slabs releasing on smooth rock surfaces - avoid traveling on or under slopes sporting glide cracks.
Snowpack Summary
Cornices are weak and may fail with warm temperatures. Wind slabs may be found in the alpine. On steep, sunny slopes, it is likely that soft, moist snow will develop by day, and crusts may form at night. Below treeline, the snowpack is becoming more uniform as warmth penetrates through. A layer of surface hoar buried in the upper snowpack has been reported in some areas, and is worth investigating before committing to any big alpine terrain. In general, the mid and lower snowpack are strong and well-settled. At the base of the snowpack, weak facets may be found. Smooth rock slabs may act as a sliding surface for the entire snowpack to glide on in specific locations as temperatures rise.
Problems
Cornices
Cornices are fragile and may collapse, especially during warm periods. A cornice fall could trigger an avalanche on the slope below. Wind slabs may be found on lee and cross-loaded terrain at and above treeline.
Travel on ridgetops to avoid wind slabs on slopes below.>Avoid steep slopes below cornices.>
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Loose Wet
As temperatures warm this weekend, watch for loose wet avalanches on steep sunny slopes.
Minimize exposure to sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.>Avoid slopes with glide cracks.>
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Feb 22nd, 2015 2:00PM
