Avalanche Forecast

Natural and rider triggered slabs were reported in alpine and treeline features primarily near ridges (see photos below), and wet avalanches were observed on sun affected slopes and low elevations.

We expect activity to increase on these specific features, as higher temperatures and strong sun weaken the snowpack. Natural avalanches are possible and human triggered are likely. Check out the full definition of considerable danger here.

Around 30 cm of dry snow can likely still be found on high north facing slopes with deeper deposits near ridgelines.

All other aspects and elevations are expected to become moist or wet with rising temperatures and strong sunshine. A widespread crust exists in all terrain below 2000 m, buried below the recent storm snow (30 cm deep) which is an ideal bed surface for avalanche activity.

The facet/crust layer that produced large avalanches during early March is buried 150-250 cm deep, and is now considered unreactive.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear skies. 20-40 km/h northerly ridgetop wind. Freezing levels remain around 1200 m overnight.

Sunday

Mostly sunny. Northwest ridgetop winds ease over the day from around 50 km/h to 30 km/h. Freezing levels rise rapidly to 3000 m, raising treeline temperatures to +10 °C.

Monday

Freezing levels remain around 2500 m overnight and throughout Monday. 40-60 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperatures around +10 °C.

Tuesday

Freezing levels remain around 2500 m overnight and drop to 1700 m by afernoon. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperatures around +7 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avoid sun exposed slopes, especially if snow surface is moist or wet.
• A moist or wet snow surface, pinwheeling and natural avalanches are all indicators of a weakening snowpack.
• Wind slabs may be poorly bonded to the underlying crust.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.