Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the fact that persistent slabs are particularly difficult to forecast.

THURSDAY NIGHT: Partly cloudy / Light west wind / Low of -26

FRIDAY: Sunny / Light northwest wind / High of -21

SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Moderate northwest wind / High of -20

SUNDAY: Cloudy with flurries; 3-5 cm / Strong west wind / High of -13

Several explosive triggered size 2 cornice failures were reported near Golden on Wednesday. The cornice failures only triggered small wind slabs on the slopes below.

Explosive control work on December 26th near Invermere produced large avalanches (size 2) on the crust formed in early December, found 40-70 cm deep in that area.

Recent winds have created wind slabs on a variety of aspects. The recent snow may sit over a layer of weak surface hoar crystals at treeline and below. 

 

The most notable layer of concern in the snowpack is a crust that was formed in early December and is now down 60-120 cm. Activity on this layer has been sporadic. It has generally been triggered on steep, rocky slopes, with a shallow or thin to thick snowpack.

This layer has created a low likelihood, high consequence scenario which is best managed through conservative terrain choices and disciplined backcountry travel techniques.

A late October facet/crust layer sits at the bottom of the snowpack above 1900m. 

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of a persistent slab.
• Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transitions from thick to thin.
• Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.