Avalanche Forecast

Small storm slabs (size 1) were reactive to riders on alpine convex slopes near Cokely on Sunday.

Observations of small natural avalanches (dry and wet loose, wind and storm slabs) from this stormy weekend are still being reported throughout the region.

Thanks for sharing your observations via the MIN if you are going out into the backcountry.

20 to 25 cm of recent snow exists, with deeper deposits of wind-transported snow in lee terrain at upper elevations. Variable conditions exist at upper elevations and reactive slabs are found at upper elevations. Southerly slopes were affected by the sun, resulting in heavy wet snow sitting on a thin crust.

A robust crust, formed in early March, can be found down 50 to 100 cm. The snow above is well bonded to this crust. Below this, the snowpack is well consolidated and strong.

Tuesday Night

Cloudy with 10 to 15 cm of new snow. 30 to 45 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4°C. Freezing level 1000 m.

Wednesday

Cloudy with 10 to 20 cm of new snow. 60 to 80 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2°C. Freezing level 1000 m.

Thursday

Cloudy with 10 to 20 cm of new snow. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.

Friday

Cloudy with 20 to 30 cm of new snow. 40 to 60 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Storm slab size and sensitivity to triggering will likely increase through the day.
• Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.
• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Use careful route-finding and stick to moderate angled slopes with low consequences.