The sun can pack a punch this time of year. Be aware of signs of deteriorating stability such as snow pin-wheeling down slopes or small point-release avalanching below cliffs.
Summary
Confidence
High -
Weather Forecast
WEDNESDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light to moderate southwesterly ridgetop winds / Alpine high of -7 with an above freezing layer of air between 1400-1600 m in some areas of the region.THURSDAY: Mostly cloudy / Light to moderate southwesterly ridgetop winds / Alpine high of -4 with an above freezing layer of air between 1100-1600 m in some areas of the region.FRIDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light westerly ridgetop winds / Freezing level rising to around 1600m.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported in this region.
Snowpack Summary
Accumulated storm snow from last week totals 25-40cm. This new snow covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. The lower snowpack is generally weak with two primary concerns that are widespread:A weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.