Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

Some small loose dry avalanches were reported in the central Purcells on Sunday.

Last Thursday and Friday, several size 1-2 wind slab avalanches were reported across the eastern Purcells. Looking forward, we suspect wind slabs may remain possible to trigger in isolated areas, especially where they overlie a layer of surface hoar.

Reports have been limited. If you venture into the backcountry, please consider submitting your observations to the MIN.

Expect to find wind-affected surfaces in exposed treeline terrain and above. Sheltered areas still have soft snow and good riding.

Wind slabs formed last week have strengthened but may still be triggered in isolated areas, particularly where they sit atop a layer of surface hoar or facets from early January, buried 20–40 cm deep.

A persistent weak layer of facets buried in early December is on average 60 to 90 cm deep. Near Invermere, this layer may only be buried 30 cm.

The snowpack base consists of a thick crust and facets or depth hoar in many areas.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear. 20 to 40 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

Wednesday

Sunny. 10 to 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.

Thursday

Partly cloudy with 0 to 2 cm of snow. 20 to 30 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

Friday

Mostly sunny. 15 to 25 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -13 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.
• Avoid steep, rocky, and wind-affected areas where triggering slabs is more likely.
• Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to buried weak layers.
• Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.