Avalanche Forecast

High

There were a few small loose snow avalanches from rocky/extreme terrain in the last couple days, including human-triggered from S aspects on the Swiss Peaks.

Several sz 1.5-2 wind slab avalanches were observed last week from Tree-line and Alpine lee features.

Last weekend there was a natural avalanche cycle triggered by strong sun and high freezing levels. All observed avalanches were loose/wet and no bigger than size 2.5.

15-20cm of new snow, along with gusty SW winds, has created wind slabs in upper elevation lee features. These slabs sit atop a series of crusts on all aspects except high north faces, where they overlie dry snow.

The Feb 3rd crust, down ~110cm, is the dominant mid-pack layer and still produces isolated planar results when tested.

Below tree-line, the snowpack has gone through many melt-freeze cycles, and is in spring conditions. Travel is rough at lower elevations.

A high pressure ridge returns Monday, bringing sun and warmer temps to the region.

Tonight: Cloudy with clear periods, isolated flurries, Alp low -7°C, mod gusty W ridgetop winds.

Mon: Mix of sun/cloud, Alp high -2°C, light/mod NW winds, FZL 2000m.

Tues: Mix of sun/cloud, Alp high 2°C, light SW winds, FZL rising to 2400m.

Wed: Cloudy with flurries, trace amounts, Alp high 3°C, light/gusty mod SW winds.

• Be carefull around freshly wind loaded features.
• Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.