Avalanche Forecast

Low - Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations. Uncertainty is due to extremely variable snowpack conditions reported through the region.

After a weak frontal system on Thursday the weather clears until Sunday evening.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Isolated flurries, light south wind, temperatures drop to -12 C.

THURSDAY: Flurries with up to 5 cm of snow, moderate south wind, high temperatures around -6 C.

FRIDAY: Mostly cloudy, light wind, high temperatures around -6 C.

SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, moderate south wind, high temperatures around -10 C.

There are no recent field observations from White Pass, however last week's storm produced a widespread avalanche cycle (see photos in this MIN report). These storm slabs have likely settled since then, but smaller recent storms may have formed some newer wind slabs.

In drier parts of the region like Wheaton Valley there is potential for small wind slabs to step down to deeper weak layers, resulting in large avalanches.

The snowpack around White Pass is likely settling after a massive storm last week (100 cm of snow and strong southwest wind). Old wind slabs may linger in steep open terrain, and small wind slabs could form during the weak storm on Thursday. Sheltered terrain around White Pass has a total snow depth of roughly 180 cm.

In drier areas such as the Wheaton Valley, total snowpack depths are likely in the 50-150 cm range and are probably quite variable due to wind transport. The base of the snowpack in this area may consist of some weak, sugary facets.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transitions from thick to thin.
• Watch for areas of hard wind slab on alpine features.
• If triggered, wind slabs avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.