Avalanche Forecast

Low - Uncertainty is due to the fact that persistent slabs are particularly difficult to forecast. Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations.

TUESDAY NIGHT - Mainly cloudy with a few flurries, 5-10 cm / strong southwest wind / alpine low temperature near -8 

WEDNESDAY - Mainly cloudy with a few flurries, 5-10 cm / moderate southwest wind / alpine high temperature near -6 / freezing level 1400 m

THURSDAY - A mix of sun and cloud / light southeast wind / alpine high temperature near -7 

FRIDAY - Mainly sunny / light southeast wind / alpine high temperature near -3, slight temperature inversion

Fresh snow and wind may continue to overload a weak layer of surface hoar that has been observed in the areas surrounding Valemount. Human triggered avalanches are likely.

Field observations in this region are limited. If you get out, please consider submitting your observations to the Mountain Information Network. 

20-50 cm of recent fresh snow now reportedly sits on a weak layer of surface hoar in the areas near Valemount.

A persistent weak layer is now down about 50 to 100 cm. The distribution of this layer is variable. In some areas, it's surface hoar and/or a crust. In other areas, this layer may be difficult to find, if it exists at all. Recent human triggered avalanches have been reported on this layer and have been most numerous in the areas surrounding Valemount.

There is a prominent crust near the base of the snowpack. This crust likely has weak facets above and/or below it. There have been no recent avalanches reported on this layer, but would be most likely to trigger in steep, shallow, rocky terrain, with a thin to thick snowpack.

• Avoid freshly wind loaded terrain features.
• Be aware of the potential for large avalanches due to the presence of buried surface hoar.
• Surface hoar distribution is highly variable. Avoid generalizing your observations.
• Avoid open slopes and convex rolls at and below treeline where buried surface hoar may be preserved.