Avalanche Forecast

Fair - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain

Unsettled conditions and light precipitation are expected for Sunday. Monday might see a weak ridge form resulting in dry conditions or the unsettled conditions and light precipitation may persist. The next organized system is expected to arrive Monday night and light precipitation is expected for Tuesday.Sunday: Light scattered precipitation, freezing level am: 1200m pm: 1500m, ridgetop wind: light S-SWMonday: Periods of sun, light scattered precipitation, freezing level am: 1200m pm: 2000m, ridgetop wind: moderate SMon. Night/Tuesday: Precipitation 5-10mm, freezing level am: 1300m pm: 1500m, ridgetop wind: light S-W

On Friday, several storm slab avalanches up to size 2 were reported.  These were triggered both by skiers and explosives and released down 10-50cm.  Natural soft slab avalanches up to size 2.5 were also reported in the region releasing in the storm down 20-35cm with good slab propagation. Natural sluffing from steep features to size 1.5 was also reported.

The new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust which exists on all aspects up to 2000m and to mountain-top on sun-exposed slopes. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack. Freezing levels have been rising as high as 2000m recently and snow is reported to be moist or wet to this elevation. In the alpine where the snow remains dry, moderate-strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in leeward features. Large sagging cornices remain a concern, especially during periods of warming. The deep and destructive early February facet/crust layer is now close to 200 cm below the surface. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar, especially when freezing levels are high and the sun is shining.