Storm slabs may be reactive to human triggering, especially in wind loaded areas, and on steep, sun exposed slopes. Watch for signs of instability such as whumphing, cracking and recent avalanches.
Weather Forecast
TUESDAY NIGHT - Cloudy with clear periods / northwest wind, 10-30 km/h / alpine low temperature near -13WEDNESDAY- Cloudy with sunny periods / southwest winds, 15-25 km/h / alpine high temperature near -11THURSDAY - Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries / southwest winds 15-30 km/h / alpine high temperature near -9 / freezing level 1400 mFRIDAY - Mainly cloudy / southwest winds, 10-25 km/h / alpine high temperature near -7 / freezing level 1500 m
Avalanche Summary
Expect to find reactive storm slabs at upper elevations, especially in wind loaded areas and on steep, sun-exposed slopes.No new avalanches were reported in the region on Monday.
Snowpack Summary
20-50 cm of recent storm snow sits mainly on facets (sugary snow), as well as surface hoar (feathery crystals) in sheltered areas and a crust on sun exposed slopes. At lower elevations, a weak layer buried in mid January can be found approximately 50-80 cm deep. This layer consists of surface hoar and facets, and may be combined with a crust on south facing slopes. This layer has been most reactive at treeline and below. Avalanche activity has dropped off significantly, however it may still be possible to trigger avalanches on this layer in areas such as steep cutblocks, and large open glades in the trees.The lower snowpack is generally considered to be strong, except for shallow, rocky areas where cold temperatures continue to facet (weaken) the snowpack.
Problems
Storm Slabs
Storm Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within new snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slabs typically last between a few hours and few days (following snowfall). Storm-slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.