South Rockies

Anticipate reactive wind slabs on steep, wind-loaded slopes. Snow quality will be best in wind-sheltered terrain at lower elevations.

Observations have generally been limited in the region. However, this MIN report from Saturday describes touchy wind slab conditions in the Crowsnest Pass area.

Moderate to strong southwest winds have created widespread wind-affected surfaces at treeline and above. Hard wind slabs have formed in lee and cross-loaded terrain.

In the upper snowpack, a melt-freeze crust and facets exist, particularly in south-facing terrain. Winds likely have scoured recent snow, leaving the crust exposed on the surface in exposed areas.

Snowpack depth varies significantly across the region. Windward slopes may have as little as 50 cm of snow, while leeward slopes could have up to 200 cm

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.

Tuesday

Mix of sun and cloud. 50 to 70 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny. 30 to 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Thursday

Cloudy with 0 to 2 cm of snow. 30 to 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Approach lee and cross-loaded slopes with caution.
• Watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, or recent avalanches.
• Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.