Avalanche Forecast

Low - Uncertainty is due to limitations in the field data.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Mostly clear skies, light southwest wind, alpine temperature near -12 C. 

THURSDAY: Mainly sunny, light southerly wind, alpine temperature near -4 C with a chance of a weak temperature inversion.

FRIDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, light to moderate south wind, alpine temperature near -5 C. 

SATURDAY: Mainly cloudy with scattered flurries, light west wind, alpine temperature near -7 C.

Over the weekend a natural avalanche cycle took place with avalanches averaging size 1.5 to 2.5, but there were a few size 3 and even size 3.5's in the mix too. Many of the larger avalanches likely ran on persistent weak layers.

60 to 100 cm of storm snow has fallen over the last week. Underneath this storm snow there is a sandwich of weak layers which are widespread throughout the region.

Just under the new snow, about one meter below the surface is the mid December surface hoar. This layer has been failing naturally and has been quite sensitive to human triggering. Large avalanches have been running on this interface connecting big terrain features. 

Below that lies the early December persistent weak layer, it's about 80 to 140 cm below the surface. This weak layer is a mixed bag that often presents as surface hoar and facets sitting on top of a supportive crust. This is a nasty weak layer, when avalanches fail on it, they have been large and destructive. Smaller avalanches in motion can step down to this one too. 

• Uncertainty is best managed through conservative terrain choices at this time.
• Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of a persistent slab.
• If triggered, wind slabs avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.
• Carefully manage your exposure to overhead hazards while entering and leaving riding areas.