Avalanche Forecast

Fair - Due to the number of field observations

Friday: Heavier precipitation should ease off by morning, then cloudy with flurries (5-10 cm). The freezing level lowers to around 800 m. Winds are light to moderate from the W-NW. Saturday: Cloudy with flurries or periods of snow 5-10 cm. The freezing level is near 500 m and winds are light to moderate from the southwest. Sunday: Periods of snow 10-20 cm. The freezing level should climb to 1500 m.

It is likely that a natural avalanche cycle is ongoing Thursday morning with continued heavy precipitation, mild temperatures and strong winds. On Wednesday, several natural and explosive controlled avalanches up to size 2 were reported, but observations were limited. Natural avalanche activity should taper off on Friday as temperatures cool slightly and precipitation eases off; however, rider triggering remains likely.

The stormy weather pattern continues with another 15-30 cm accumulating by Thursday morning (and more expected through the day). Temperatures have been mild with rain up to treeline in parts of the region. Winds have also been strong from the W-SW resulting in continued wind slab formation in exposed lee terrain. The December 22nd surface hoar layer is now over 100cm deep in southern sections and around 50 cm further north. This layer may have been flushed out in many areas, but remains a concern on slopes that have not released or where less snow has accumulated. The mid pack features several persistent weak layers but these have likely gained strength at this point. In the north of the region a basal facet and crust combo lingers near the ground and is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.