The sun had an unexpected punch today producing loose wet avalanches to size 1.5 in the alpine. This demonstrates how quickly conditions can change. Be mindful of un-forecasted sunny conditions where solar radiation can have a large impact.
The cooling temperatures have reduced the likelihood of the persistent slab problem which is comprised of facets that formed end of December and mid-January. However, these weak layers have not gone away entirely.
The weak base is still present in areas at tree-line and above. Forecasters have not seen a significant avalanche on this layer for some time, however, it is not outside the realm of possibility.
Sunshine patrol reported that Bourgeau 9 produced a loose wet avalanche size 1.5. Additionally, they were getting explosive results, wind-slabs to size 1.5, in the Delirium Dive. Lake Louise patrol reported seeing loose dry avalanches in the surrounding backcountry to size 1. No avalanches were observed by the field team up 93N.
10-20cm of recent storm snow, becoming moist on solar aspects, sits on a recently formed crust, which is widespread at all elevations, except for north aspects above 2500 m. The cooling temperatures have improved the stability of the mid-pack, but the January persistent facet layers down 20-50 cm, and deep persistent facet and depth hoar layers at the base of the snowpack, are still present at treeline and above.
Generally, a benign weather pattern will exist for the next couple of days. Light ridge top wind, trace accumulations of snow, and cloudy skies with seasonal temperatures.
For more mountain weather click HERE.
