Avalanche Forecast

FRIDAY NIGHT: Snow; 15-20 cm. / Strong, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine low temperature -6 / Freezing level 1300 m.

SATURDAY: Snow; 15-20 cm. / Strong, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine high temperature -3 / Freezing level 1500 m.

SUNDAY: Snow; 10-15 cm. / Moderate, west ridgetop wind / alpine high temperature -6 / Freezing level 1100 m.

MONDAY: Cloudy with flurries; 0-3 cm. / Moderate, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine high temperature -5 / Freezing level 1100 m.

No new avalanches were reported in the region over the past few days, but snowpack tests around the region continue to show concerning results on critical weak layers buried 30-50 cm deep. These tests continue to highlight the Valemount area as a hotspot for weak layer reactivity, particularly in sheltered openings at treeline and below.

A natural avalanche cycle is expected to begin Saturday afternoon, travel in avalanche terrain is NOT recommended this weekend.

Data in this region is sparse. Please submit your observations to the Mountain Information Network. 

Another layer of large surface hoar was reported in the areas surrounding Valemount and has now been buried by new snow. This will be another layer to watch as snow piles up this weekend.

An active weak layer is now down 30 to 70 cm. The distribution of this layer is variable. In some areas it's surface hoar and/or a crust; in others this layer may be difficult to find if it exists at all. Recent human triggered avalanches have been reported on this layer and have been most numerous in the areas surrounding Valemount.

There is a prominent crust near the base of the snowpack. This crust likely has weak facets above and/or below it. There have been no recent avalanches reported on this layer, but would be most likely to trigger in steep, shallow, rocky terrain, with a thin to thick snowpack.

• Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of buried surface hoar.
• Surface hoar distribution is highly variable. Avoid generalizing your observations.
• Avoid open slopes and convex rolls at and below treeline where buried surface hoar may be preserved.
• Approach steep open slopes at and below treeline cautiously, buried surface hoar may exist.
• Avoid traveling in runout zones. Avalanches have the potential to run to the valley floor.