Avalanche Forecast

High

Numerous avalanches of all trigger types continue to be reported. Slabs have been failing up to a meter deep.

Notably on Tuesday, one avalanche resulted in a person being fully buried for a lengthy time (check this MIN for details) and another was a near-miss for a snowmobiler. (See photo below)A very large (size 3) naturally-triggered cornice was also observed near Whistler. The cornice triggered a subsequent slab below. (Photo below)

50 to 80 cm of snow has accumulated over the last storm cycle. The accumulated storm snow is sitting on a weak layer that developed in late January. In most areas, this layer consists of a hard slippery crust. However, on shady, upper-elevation slopes, the new snow may be resting on faceted grains or surface hoar. Wind-affected snow and wind slabs can be found on various aspects at upper elevations.

The mid and lower snowpack is well-settled and bonded with no other layers of concern.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear. 10 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

Thursday

A mix of sun and cloud. 5 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

Friday

A mix of sun and cloud. 5 km/h variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -11 °C.

Saturday

A mix of sun and cloud. 25 to 35 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Keep your guard up as storm slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.
• Conservative terrain selection is critical; choose gentle, low consequence lines.
• Avoid lee and cross-loaded slopes at alpine and treeline elevations.
• Use extra caution around cornices: they are large, fragile, and can trigger slabs on slopes below.