Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Confidence is due to a stable weather pattern with little change expected.

THURSDAY NIGHT - Mainly clear with cloudy periods / moderate west wind / alpine low temperature near -5 

FRIDAY - Cloudy with sunny breaks, with a chance of flurries / light to moderate southwest wind / alpine high temperature near -1 / freezing level 1500 m

SATURDAY - Mainly sunny / moderate to strong south wind / alpine high temperature near 0 / freezing level 2100 m

SUNDAY - A mix of sun and cloud / moderate to strong south wind / alpine high temperature near 0 / freezing level 2100 m

Wind slabs remain possible to trigger, particularly on northerly aspects in the alpine. Large cornices remain a concern, especially during the heat of the day.

There have been reports most days this week of a few natural and/or human-triggered wind slab and dry loose avalanches, ranging between size 1-2, as well as natural size 1 loose wet avalanches on solar aspects at lower elevations.

Wind slabs can be found on leeward slopes at upper elevations and remain possible to trigger. Solar aspects likely have a crust on the surface, and soft, dry snow can be found in sheltered, shaded areas. Massive cornices exist on ridgelines, which can act as triggers on slopes below.

The mid and lower snowpack is well settled and strong in most areas. A weak layer of facets buried in mid-February may still be found but has been gaining strength.

• Avoid freshly wind loaded features, especially near ridge crests, roll-overs and in steep terrain.
• Back off if you encounter whumpfing, hollow sounds, or shooting cracks.
• Minimize your exposure time below cornices.