Avalanche Forecast

Fair - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Synopsis: Generally very fine weather with cool overnight temperatures and warm, sunny days.Saturday: Cloud lingering, but also some clear breaks. Freezing level 1700 m. Light northerly winds.Sunday and Monday: Clear and sunny. Freezing level around 1600 m. Light southwesterly winds.

A couple of large natural avalanches were reported from northeast of Sparwood that likely ran on Wednesday or Thursday on the buried rain crust. On Friday, a few cornice releases were observed and sluffing was noted in the new snow on steep terrain.

Approximately 40-70 cm recent storm snow sits on top of a buried rain crust that exists up to around 2100 m. In areas near Sparwood, the new snow bonded poorly to this crust, and a few large avalanches were observed that likely released on this layer. In the North Elk Valley, the bond at the crust was reported to be good. Generally, this interface has now become stronger, and is unlikely to release due to the weight of a person alone. However, a large trigger, such as a cornice fall, or an airborne sledder, could potentially trigger a large avalanche on this layer in steep terrain. Recent wind slabs exist in the immediate lee of ridge lines and terrain features. Cornices are large and fragile. Mid and lower snowpack layers are generally well-settled.