Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

Avalanche activity was observed Thursday to size 2.5, with the largest slabs reported from wind loaded features. Observations are currently limited, however we expect rider triggering is still likely.

Up to 90 cm of recent snow has been heavily wind affected in exposed terrain. Storm snow sits over wind-affected surfaces and 30 to 60 cm of settling snow in sheltered areas.

Multiple weak layers exist in the upper and mid snowpack. The most concerning weak layer is a widespread crust found down 60 to 100 cm, with weak, faceted snow immediately above it. This layer will need time to adjust to the new snow load.

The storm snow and buried weak layers have produced recent large avalanche activity. Although natural avalanche activity may taper off, it will remain possible to human-trigger it for some time afterward.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy with 5-10 cm of snow possible early evening. 20-40 km/h southerly winds, Freezing level 1000 m.

Saturday

Cloudy with 5 cm of snow possible, and afternoon sun. 30-40 km/h southerly winds. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level hovers around 700 m.

Sunday

Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries. Light southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C. The freezing level hovers around 900 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Potential for wide propagation exists, fresh slabs may rest on surface hoar, facets and/or crust.
• Remote triggering is a concern, watch out for adjacent and overhead slopes.
• Brief periods of sun could quickly initiate natural avalanche activity.
• Storm slabs in motion may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.