Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the timing, track, & intensity of the incoming weather system.

FRIDAY NIGHT: 10-15 cm. snow, strong southwest wind, alpine temperature -7 C, freezing level below valley bottom.

SATURDAY: 2-5 cm snow, moderate west wind, alpine temperature -4 C, freezing level 1000 m.

SUNDAY: 3-5 cm. snow, moderate south wind, alpine temperature -7 C, freezing level 600 m

MONDAY: 3-5 cm. snow, light west wind, alpine temperature -7 C, freezing level 600 m

Numerous large cornice falls have been reported over the last few days. Many of them have not triggered slabs on the slopes below, but a few have, resulting in very large (size 3) avalanches. A cornice triggered size 3 deep persistent slab avalanche was reported on a steep convexity at treeline on Tuesday. This suggests large avalanches are still possible with large triggers in isolated locations. 

Clear and sunny skies have formed new surface hoar (size 3-10 mm.) on all but solar aspects where a new sun crust has been formed. This new interface will need to be carefully monitored as it gets buried. New snow falling on this layer will be more reactive than previous storms where the new snow did not fall on a persistent weak layer. The early February rain crust is another prominent layer in the upper snowpack that requires monitoring, though there have been no recent avalanches on this layer. The lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong.

• Be aware of the potential for larger than expected storm slabs due to the presence of buried surface hoar.
• Avoid open slopes and convex rolls at and below treeline where buried surface hoar may be preserved.
• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation and wind exposure.
• Cornice failure may trigger large avalanches.