Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Apr 10th, 2024 4:00PM
The alpine rating is Wind Slabs.
, the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems includeAssess for fresh wind slabs near ridgetops before entering committing terrain.
Retreat to safer lower-angle terrain if you see blowing snow, or signs of instability.
Summary
Confidence
High
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported.
On Saturday and Sunday, small loose dry avalanches, and potentially reactive wind loading were reported in steep, rocky, alpine terrain.
We expect wind slabs to remain a concern for a few more days in the alpine.
Thanks for sharing your photos and observations on the Mountain Information Network.
Snowpack Summary
Previous strong southerly winds combined with recent incremental snowfall have scoured southerly slopes and left deeper deposits of wind slabs on leeward faces. Forecast continued strong winds overnight may continue to build fresh slabs.
Up to 30 cm of soft snow on the surface may be found in sheltered upper-elevation areas, primarily north-facing terrain. Below this, expect to find firm wind-affected surfaces, a hard crust (below 1600 m), or loose powder snow.
Large cornices can be found on exposed ridgelines and should be given a wide berth.
Weather Summary
Wednesday Night
Mostly cloudy. 1 to 6 cm of snow possible. 30 to 50 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline low around -4°C.
Thursday
A mix of sun and cloud. Trace amounts of snow possible. 20 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -1 °C. Freezing level rising to 900 m.
Friday
Partly cloudy. 1 to 6 cm of snow possible. 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -3 °C.
Saturday
Cloudy. 2 to 7 cm of new snow possible. 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -2 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
- Wind slabs are most reactive during their formation.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Recent snow and strong wind have built pockets of wind slab below ridgecrests and in cross-loaded features.
Aspects: North, North East, East, West, North West.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Apr 11th, 2024 4:00PM