A persistent weak layer that has been most pronounced at lower elevations has created a low likelihood, high consequence scenario that requires discipline and careful terrain selection to manage effectively.
Summary
Confidence
High - The weather pattern is stable
Weather Forecast
SUNDAY NIGHT: Clear / light, northeasterly winds / Alpine low -19.MONDAY: Sunny / light, northeasterly winds / Alpine high -12.TUESDAY: Sunny / light, northeasterly winds / Alpine high -10.WEDNESDAY: Sunny / light to moderate, northeasterly winds / Alpine high -5.
Avalanche Summary
On February 16th, a persistent slab avalanche was triggered by a skier on a north aspect on a 30 degree slope.
Check out the MIN report here. These kinds of avalanches have become less frequent, but they are still possible to human trigger in specific locations and the consequences can be high.
Snowpack Summary
Up to 5 cm of recent new snow fell with moderate to strong southwest winds. The new snow sits on top of approximately 10-30 cm of low density snow in some areas, and wind slabs in other areas. A weak layer that was buried in mid January is down 30-60 cm. This layer consists of surface hoar (weak, feathery crystals) and facets (sugary snow). The layer also likely consists of a crust on south facing slopes. Avalanche activity on this layer has slowed, but test results, and recent observations of whumphing still indicate that this layer may still be possible for humans to trigger in specific locations. It has been most reactive at treeline and below treeline.The lower snowpack is generally considered to be strong, except for shallow, rocky areas where the cold temperatures continue to facet (weaken) the snowpack.
jsmith,
Avalanche Canada
