Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

Size 2-3 persistent slab avalanches have occurred this week in the Selkirks to natural and remote triggers. Activity has been primarily observed in north facing, alpine terrain features.

Cornice falls continue to be reported, triggering size 2-3 avalanches on the slopes below.

Small loose wet avalanches continue on steep south-facing slopes in the afternoon.

Expect to find dry snow on high north-facing slopes, crust or moist snow at lower elevations and on south facing slopes, and hard, wind-affected snow in exposed areas.

Surface hoar 30 to 70 cm deep has been reactive in the Selkirks this week. This layer is most likely to be found on sheltered north-facing slopes between 2200 and 2600 m.

The mid and lower snowpack is generally strong, with older weak layers buried 100–250 cm deep. Large triggers, like cornice collapses, could trigger these deeper layers, especially on high, shaded slopes.

Wednesday Night

Clear skies. 20 to 30 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Freezing level drops to 500 m.

Thursday

Mostly clear. 20 to 40 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature rises to 0 °C. Freezing level 2000 m.

Friday

Clear skies. 15 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature rises to +7 °C. Freezing level 2800 m.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy with 5-10 cm of snow above 2000 m. 15 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation, aspect, and exposure to wind.
• Rocks will heat up with daytime warming and may become trigger points for loose wet avalanches.
• Be aware of the potential for remote triggering and large avalanches due to buried surface hoar.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.