Cornices are large and unsupported. A few have failed recently, causing large avalanches. The new storm snow will be a concern everywhere, however solar aspects are most problematic due to buried sun crusts.
Summary
Weather Forecast
A low will bring increasing precipitation today, with most intense accumulations occurring mid-day. Upslope (westerly) locations will receive locally heavy amounts, accompanied by strong southerly winds. Freezing levels will rise to 1300 m today, and drop tomorrow as a cold front follows. Unsettled conditions will remain for tomorrow and Friday.
Snowpack Summary
Storm snow slabs exist in the alpine, but are sporadic. Reports from north aspects (Dome Glacier) indicate the upper snow is well bonded; however avalanches to size 2.5 were observed yesterday from solar aspects in the
Connaught drainage. Where storm slabs rest on a buried suncrust-surface hoar combo (March 11), wide propagations can be expected.
Avalanche Summary
Numerous slabs were seen yesterday, mostly in the top 30-40cm. Skiers on Mt. Sifton yesterday were able to cut a cornice to check the slope, and released a size 2.5-3 avalanche on a south aspect, 40cm deep x 100m wide. Another size 2.5-3 slab was seen in the Asulkan drainage on Mt. Abbott.
Confidence
Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Wednesday