Avalanche Forecast

High

Several loose dry avalanches up to sz 1.5 were observed from steep alpine faces. One new Sz 2 slab was also seen on a SE aspect at treeline failing down 50cm. This slab covered tracks on the common exit from the Tryst Lake area. The slope was steep (>40deg) and a cross loaded feature.

30-60cm of recent low density snow has fallen under the influence of the up slope and convective storms moving through the region. This snow has seen very little affect from the wind but a few storm slabs were noted in treeline wind affected features failing down 50cm. This new snow is overlying the March Temperature crust that is found on all aspects except high pure north alpine areas. So far, the bond with the new snow and the underlying crust is good. Deeper in the snowpack the February 3rd crust still exists but avalanche activity on this layer has decreased since the warm temps last week settling out the snowpack. It is still worth digging and poking down to evaluate this layer. On Friday, when the sun came out it rapidly settled the new snow making it moist within the top 15cm. As it refreezes, lower elevation terrain as well as solar aspects are likely to have a temperature crust.

Light snow is forecast to continue with accumulations around 5cm. Winds will continue to be light out of the NW and skies will generally be a mix of sun and cloud. Temperatures will be -12C overnight warming up to -8C by midday.

Be aware that when the sun does come out it packs a punch at this time of year and quickly snow stability will deteriorate on the solar aspects. Thin cloud can also lead to a "Greenhouse effect" that can also make the upper snowpack moist and unstable. Lots going on in Spring!

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Conditions may have improved, but be mindful that deep instabilities are still present.
• Fresh wind slabs will likely form throughout the day, diligently watch for changing conditions.
• The more the snowpack warms-up and weakens, the more conservative you`ll want to be with your terrain selection.