Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Due to the number and quality of field observations

SATURDAY NIGHT: Cloudy with clear periods, light north wind, alpine temperatures drop to -6 C.SUNDAY: Sunny with cloudy periods, light northeast wind, alpine high temperatures around -4 C.MONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud, light northwest wind, alpine high temperatures around -6 C.TUESDAY: Cloudy with some light flurries, moderate northwest wind, alpine high temperatures around - 6 C.

Widespread avalanche activity was reported on the North Shore mountains on Friday. Ski cutting produced numerous small (size 1) slab avalanches in the top 30 cm of snow, as well a few notable larger avalanches (up to size 2.5). Many of the avalanches showed impressive propagation, with some being triggered remotely (from a distance) and on a few occasions stepping down to a 50 cm deep crust layer (see this MIN report). Evidence of natural activity was also observed when the weather cleared up. Avalanches were most reactive on west and south aspects.

30-50 cm of recent storm snow has not yet bonded to underlying crust layers. Because of the cold temperatures and weak snow around the crusts, storm slabs are expected to take a few more days to strengthen. The lower snowpack is settled and strong.