Avalanche Forecast

A few naturally triggered wind slabs up to size 2 were observed in steep Alpine terrain on SE aspects. These slabs averaged 30cm deep and appeared to have occurred in the past 24 to 48hrs.

Wide variety of surface conditions depending on aspect and elevation. These include sastrugi, hard wind slab, soft wind slab, breakable sun crust, and limited quantities of soft snow in sheltered locations. Recent storm snow of 5cm is being redistributed by strong winds in the Alpine. Fresh surface wind slabs averaging 30cm deep are forming in lee and cross-loaded terrain at upper elevations. The Jan 24th surface layer is now buried 35 to 50cm and is giving hard resistant planar shear test results. The deep persistent layer of the November rain crust is being monitored, but likely only triggerable in shallow snowpack areas.

Monday will be a mix of sun and cloud with moderate westerly winds. Daytime high temps should reach -3C. Snowfall amounts could range from trace to 5cm, but most likely the region will see about 2cm total.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation, aspect, and exposure to wind.
• Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.