Avalanche Forecast

On Thursday a widespread natural avalanche cycle is expected.

Leading up to Thursday human triggered avalanches using explosives were reported up to size 2.

Upper Snowpack: Heavy snowfall amounts are forecast through Thursday afternoon building widespread fresh and reactive storm slabs. This brings over 60 cm+ of snow over a layer of surface hoar.

Lower Snowpack: Sugary faceted snow with a rain crust just above the ground.

Snowpack depths at treeline are 45 to 75 cm, and in the alpine 65 to 125 cm.

Matt and Connie's video paints a better picture of the snowpack than I can with words. Check it out! And here's their MIN report with a graphed profile.

Wednesday NightPossible enhanced snowfall amounts 20-35 cm new snow, strong southwest wind, temperatures near -15. Freezing level valley bottom.

Thursday5-15 cm through the day, strong southwest wind and temperatures near -12.

A mix of sun and clouds, moderate southwest wind and colder temperatures persist -15 to -20.

Cloudy with light snow amounts, moderate southwest wind and temperatures warming slightly to -8.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avoid all avalanche terrain during periods of heavy snowfall.
• Be aware of the potential for larger than expected storm slabs due to the presence of buried surface hoar.