Avalanche Forecast

Widespread natural activity occurred during the recent storm. Remotely triggered slabs continue to be reported on the surface hoar layer, at treeline and above primarily on north and east facing slopes (however this layer may be reactive on all aspects). A size 1 remote was reported from Glacier National Park yesterday.

Human triggered avalanches are still likely at higher elevations, where slabs sit over the weak surface hoar.

Strong winds will redistribute 10-30 cm of new snow into deeper deposits on north and east facing slopes, this sits over a rain crust that has been observed up to 1800-2100 m throughout this region (treeline and above). A concerning layer of surface hoar is now buried 40-70 cm deep. Many avalanches released in steep terrain and may have destroyed this layer, but it likely still lingers unaffected features.

At lower elevations wet snow has likely refrozen into a hard crust. The middle and base of the snowpack is largely weak and faceted. A hard crust may be found near the ground.

Treeline snowpack depths are variable and generally range between 60 and 100 cm. Snowpack tapers rapidly as you move lower in elevation.

Saturday Night

Cloudy with southerly winds 40-60 km/h. 5 cm likely overnight.

Sunday

Mostly cloudy, light snowfall continues with up to 5 cm possible. Southwest winds 10-40 km/h,. Freezing levels climb to 1000 m by afternoon, treeline temperatures rise to -4 °C.

Monday

Mostly cloudy, no snowfall expected. Treeline temperatures around -9 °C. Light and variable wind.

Tuesday

Clearing skies with no snowfall expected. Southerly winds, 10-20 km/h.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Make conservative terrain choices and avoid overhead hazard.
• Be aware of the potential for larger than expected storm slabs due to the presence of buried surface hoar.
• Stay off recently wind loaded slopes until they have had a chance to stabilize.