Head above the crust to the alpine for the best turns.
While danger is low, continue to evaluate conditions as you travel and adjust your trip plan if conditions are not what you expect.
Summary
Confidence
Avalanche Summary
Small wet avalanches have been observed on south facing slopes in the heat of the day. Activity may continue during periods of strong sunshine. Cornice falls were observed to have triggered large avalanches last weekend (photo below), and they are expected to remain weak with daily sun and warm temperatures.
If you head into the backcountry, please submit your observations to the Mountain Information Network.
Snowpack Summary
A widespread surface crust exists up to roughly 1300 m. At higher elevations, snow has been wind affected by variable winds. Large cornices can be found on exposed ridgelines.
Dry snow with good riding conditions can still be found on north-facing alpine slopes, while steep south facing slopes may become moist with rising freezing levels and sunshine during the day. Check out this MIN report from McDonnell for a great summary of conditions on Friday.
In some areas, a weak layer of facets or surface hoar may persist, down buried 50-80 cm deep. This layer is unlikely to trigger from the weight of a rider, but concern exists with very large loads like cornice falls.
Weather Summary
Saturday Night
Clear skies with cloudy periods. 10-20 km/h southerly ridgetop wind. Freezing level dropping to valley bottom.
Sunday
A mix of sun and cloud. 30-40 km/h southerly ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +3 °C. Freezing level rising to 1100 m.
Monday
Mostly cloudy. Isolated flurries possible. 30-40 km/h southerly ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +3 °C. Freezing levels rise to 11000 m.
Tuesday
Mostly cloudy. Isolated flurries possible. 10-20 km/h southerly ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +3 °C. Freezing levels rise to 1100 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- When a thick, melt-freeze surface crust is present, avalanche activity is unlikely.
- Use extra caution around cornices: they are large, fragile, and can trigger slabs on slopes below.
- Loose avalanches may start small but they can grow and push you into dangerous terrain.
Problems
Loose Wet
Wet avalanches (slab or loose) become more likely during intense sunshine and in the heat of the day. Greatest concern is for south facing (sun exposed slopes), especially near rock outcrops where warming is most intense.
Aspects: South East, South, South West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Cornices
Cornice falls become weak in daytime heating and strong sunshine. Give them a wide berth on and under ridgelines as they are hazardous on their own, and can trigger large avalanches on the slope below.
Aspects: North, North East, East, West, North West.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Mar 24th, 2024 4:00PM
