Avalanche Forecast

Cloudy conditions overnight will help keep temps warmer before clear skies prevail tomorrow around mid day. No new snow is forecast and freezing levels are expected to be around 2200m. Watch for solar radiation to decrease stability especially on solar aspects. 

No new avalanche observations on Thursday but observations were also limited. 

A dusting of recent snow overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and previously formed wind slabs everywhere else. These buried wind slabs are found at all elevations and extend into open areas all the way to valley floor. The slabs are failing at a depth of about 20cm, which is making for generally poor quality skiing. Cornices are larger than normal. Although they haven't been active recently, any corniced area or slopes below should be avoided. Stability changes during the day based on incoming solar radiation. As the snowpack warms up, it becomes less stable. These decreases in stability on most noteable on steep solar aspects so plan you trip to avoid these areas later in the day.

• Avoid convexities, steep unsupported terrain and rocky outcroppings.
• Cornices become weak with daytime heating, travel early on exposed slopes.
• Recent wind has varied in direction so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.
• Avoid exposure to slopes that have cornices overhead.
• Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of a deep persistent slab.
• Avoid steep slopes when air temperatures are warm, or solar radiation is strong.