Avalanche Forecast

Wednesday night: light snowfall and light to moderate west winds. Low of -4 at 900m.

Thursday: light snow throughout the day bringing up to 10cm. Moderate west winds and freezing levels rising to 1100m.

Friday: stormy weather with up to 30 cm of snow. Winds shifting to southwest and increasing to strong. Freezing levels staying around 1100m.

Saturday: no new snow expected. Winds shifting to moderate to strong from the northwest. Freezing levels staying around 1100m.

On Tuesday a skier triggered size one wind slab was reported. This avalanche was on a north aspect in the alpine.

On Sunday numerous small (size 1) wet loose avalanches were observed in the north shore area. Several small storm slab avalanches were also reported, See the MIN reports linked here. Tim Jones Peak, Pump Peak, Mt Strachan, and Mt Mulligan.

25-50 cm of snow accumulated over the weekend above 1100-1300 m. This recent storm snow has been redistributed by variable winds forming wind slab on all aspects. Below these elevations, the recent snow has cycled through a melt-freeze cycle (see this MIN report from Hollyburn). 

Where fresh snow remains, it is settling and stabilizing. However, there is lingering uncertainty as to whether a layer of surface hoar may be preserved above a crust in areas further north and east in the region at upper elevations. If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, carefully evaluate the bond of the new snow to the crust.

Below the recent snow, a thick and supportive crust extends to mountain top. The middle and base of the snowpack are well settled and strong. In isolated areas north in the region, a layer of faceted grains on a crust may be found 150-200 cm deep; however, observations suggest that this layer has become unreactive. 

• Recent wind has varied in direction so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.
• Avoid freshly wind loaded features, especially near ridge crests, roll-overs and in steep terrain.