Avalanche Forecast

Poor - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Saturday

A fast moving winter storm system is expected to bring heavy precipitation and strong winds to the region overnight. The storm may linger in the region for a couple of days. Winds should subside by the end of the forecast period. Cool temperatures should keep the freezing level at valley bottoms throughout the forecast period.

New storm snow avalanches continue to be reported from all aspects and elevation bands in the region. Persistent slab avalanches have been observed on north and easterly aspects in the alpine and at treeline up to size 3.0. The ongoing storm is expected to increase the likelihood and size of avalanches over the next few days.

A heavy load of new snow is expected to add to the existing storm snow problem. Additional loading above the persistent weak layer may result in continued easy triggering from light additional loads like skiers and riders. The weak layer of buried surface hoar crystals is now down about 100 cms in most parts of the region at treeline. In the alpine the weak layer may be down closer to 150 cms or deeper in wind loaded terrain features.