Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations.

THURSDAY NIGHT: Few clouds, moderate south wind, alpine temperature -12 C, freezing level below valley bottom.

FRIDAY: Increasing cloudiness, moderate south wind, alpine temperature -6 C, freezing level 1100 m.

SATURDAY: 5-15 cm snow, moderate southwest wind, alpine temperature -8 C, freezing level 1000 m.

SUNDAY: Cloudy with possible flurries, light to moderate south wind, alpine temperature -10 C, freezing level 600 m.

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. There has been limited avalanche activity reported over the long weekend, suggesting storm slabs have become less reactive. Old wind slabs below ridgetops are likely becoming increasingly stubborn to trigger.

Last week it snowed 40-80 cm, with the greatest accumulations in the northern part of the region. This snow has shown signs of settling and gaining strength over the past few days, with the exception of some wind affected slopes. This recent snow sits above a few different interfaces (a hard rain crust below 1800 m, sun crusts on south-facing slopes, and potentially small surface hoar at treeline), but appears to be bonding well to these interfaces. Sunny weather this week could weaken cornices and surface snow on steep south-facing slopes. The mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.

• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation and wind exposure.
• Avoid steep, rocky, and wind effected areas where triggering slabs is more likely.
• Cornice failure may trigger large avalanches.