Avalanche Forecast

A size 2.5 natural glide slab release was reported on Thursday. This avalanche occurred at treeline on a south aspect. No other significant avalanches were reported in the past few days.

 A new crust exists just below the  surface on solar aspects. Ongoing southerly winds have formed wind slabs near ridge crests at treeline and above. The above mentioned winds have formed large cornices.

There are several crusts in the mid/lower snowpack. Their depth ranges from 150-200 + cm.

A large trigger, such as a cornice fall or smaller avalanche in motion, could trigger a very large avalanche on one of these deeply buried weak layers. A single rider is unlikely to trigger this layer unless they are in a steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack area.

Friday Night

Cloudy with up to 10 cm of new snow expected. Moderate southwest winds and a low of -8°C at 1800 m.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy with flurries bringing up to 5 cm of new snow. Light southerly winds and a high of -4°C at 1800 m, freezing level rising to 1200 m.

Sunday

Increasing cloud throughout the day with light flurries bringing trace amounts of new snow. Moderate southerly winds and freezing levels rising to 1500 m.

Monday

Stormy with up to 20 cm of new snow expected. Strong southerly winds and freezing level rising to 1700 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Avoid shallow snowpack areas, rock outcroppings and steep convex terrain where triggering is most likely.
• Minimize your exposure time below cornices.