Incoming snow amounts are uncertain and are likely to vary across the forecast region. What is certain is that this new snow will land on a weak and suspect snowpack.
Summary
Weather Forecast
A large low pressure system is sitting off of the coast and is spinning precipitation towards the forecast region. As much as 35cm is predicted by Thursday in some models favoring the northern part of the region. Other models show very little. In either case expect temperatures to remain mild and winds to remain moderate to strong out of the SW.
Snowpack Summary
Wind slabs at treeline and above have formed over the past week first from North and followed by West winds. These hard slabs can be found in many start zone and open areas overlying a weak, faceted snowpack. In sheltered areas, and at lower elevations, surface snow remains weak and faceted providing poor support for travelers.
Avalanche Summary
A skier accidental sz 1 was reported near treeline on Helen Shoulder Sunday. A skier accidental size 1.5 by Panorama Meadows (Taylor Lake area) was reported Saturday. Both of these events sound as though they released on the deep persistent layer involving slabs over the facets. Numerus loose dry avalanches were observed Sunday at lower elevations.
Confidence
Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Tuesday
tim haggarty,
Parks Canada
