Even in times of low avalanche hazard best practices of skiing exposed features one at a time are warranted.
Summary
Weather Forecast
A mix of sun and cloud today with an alpine high of -7C and moderate ridge top winds from the SW. Scattered flurries tonight through Sunday with possible accumulations of 15-20cm. This new snow will be accompanied by moderate SW winds shifting to light NE winds on Sunday.
Snowpack Summary
Strong sun followed by an overnight freeze will leave a crust on steep solar aspects. On shaded slopes expect 20-30cm of soft snow over a well settled mid-pack. Variable stubborn wind slab can be found in alpine elevations along ridge-tops and exposed tree-line features. Steep south aspects have a sun crust buried 30-60cm below the surface.
Avalanche Summary
Solar triggered slides up to size 2 were observed yesterday on steep solar aspects. Expect this to continue today with prolonged sun.
Confidence
Problems
Loose Dry
Watch for avalanches triggered by prolonged solar input on steep south facing aspects today. These avalanches are especially likely around rocky outcrops where daytime heating is absorbed by dark rock surfaces. Solar heating also weakens cornices.
- Minimize exposure to steep, sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
Aspects: South East, South, South West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Cornices
Sporadic cornice failures have occurred over the last few days. Limit your exposure to these large triggers.
- Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes.
Aspects: North East, East, South East.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Feb 22nd, 2020 8:00AM
