Small amounts of new snow are slowly accumulating adding load to the Dec 15th layer. Forecasters are uncertain as to exactly when the scales will tip in the direction of increased avalanche hazard. Likely, we will see an increase Weds.
Summary
Weather Forecast
The forecast calls for up to 20cm of new snow by the end of Wednesday. Temperatures are also expected to drop into the -15 range by Thursday, with cloudy skies throughout. Wind is expected to increase in to the moderate range throughout Tuesday from the SW.
Snowpack Summary
45cm of snow now sits over the Dec 15 layer of surface hoar or sun crust, and is developing soft slab properties with the warmer temps wind and approx 10cm of new snow. Below this the snowpack is heavily faceted with remnants of older crust's still lingering throughout. Concern remains in steep faceted gully's where loose dry avalanches can occur.
Avalanche Summary
No avalanches were observed or reported today in Little Yoho, however the Lake Louise ski area reported that patrollers could ski cut size 1 loose dry avalanches in very steep and confined terrain.
Confidence
Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Tuesday