Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Dogtooth, East Purcell, Purcells.
Daytime heating will cause heightened danger, especially on sun-exposed slopes.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
A few size 1 to 2 wind slab avalanches have been reported in alpine terrain over the past week.
Looking forward, we expect wet loose avalanches as skies clear and the freezing level rises. Small wind slabs may still be possible along ridgetops.
Snowpack Summary
Warm sunny weather will melt and weaken surface snow everywhere except for north-facing slopes above roughly 2400 m. Surface melting will occur rapidly on sun-exposed slopes.
Weak layers deeper in the snowpack have shown signs of strengthening and are no longer a concern.
Weather Summary
Friday Night
Clear skies. 15 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 1800 m.
Saturday
Sunny. 15 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +2 °C. Freezing level 2400 m.
Sunday
Sunny. 10 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +5 °C. Freezing level 2700 m.
Monday
Mix of sun and cloud. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +2 °C. Freezing level 2300 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Minimize exposure to sun-exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
- Minimize your exposure time below cornices.
- Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
Avalanche Problems
Loose Wet
Wet loose avalanches are likely on sun-exposed slopes. Shaded slopes may also weaken with heating.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2