Avalanche Forecast

On Monday, a few small natural and human triggered wind slab avalanches were reported on southeast through southwest facing slopes. Also, there were several reports of small, loose avalanches on steep slopes facing the sun.

10 to 15 cm of recent snow covers a thin crust in some areas. Moderate southwest and west winds may be forming fresh wind slabs on lee slopes at high elevations. A spotty layer of surface hoar (weak, feathery crystals) is found 40 to 50 cm deep. On south-facing slopes, this layer may be a crust.

A crust/facet/surface hoar layer (buried in early December) may be found 90 to 160 cm down It was previously most active south of Highway 5, but it no longer seems to be an avalanche problem for this forecast area.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy with light flurries, localised hotspots of 10-15 cm of snow. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop winds. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Wednesday

Cloudy with up to 5 cm of snow. 20 to 40 km/h west ridgetop wind, decreasing through the day. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

Thursday

Partly cloudy. Light variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level drops to valley bottom overnight and rises back to 750 m through the day, treeline high -3 °C.

Friday

Cloudy with 5 to 20 cm of snow. 15 to 25 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature drops to -6 °C, but freezing level rises to 1000 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• The snowpack is generally stable; it may be appropriate to step out into more complex terrain.
• Pay attention to isolated wind affected features in the alpine, as well as cross-loaded features at treeline.
• Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
• Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.