Avalanche Forecast

TUESDAY NIGHT: Partly cloudy / Light variable wind / Low of -36

WEDNESDAY: Mostly sunny / Light variable wind / High of -27

THURSDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light southeast wind / High of -21

FRIDAY: Cloudy with flurries; 3-5 cm / Light variable wind / High of -23

No new avalanches were reported on Monday.

Several explosive triggered storm slab avalanches up to size 2.5 were reported in the alpine and treeline on Sunday.

Recently formed wind slabs are most likely to be found on south and westerly aspects, but older wind slabs may be found on all aspects.

Recently formed wind slabs may remain reactive to human triggers for longer than is typical due to the weak facets (sugary snow) they are sitting on.

A crust that was formed at treeline elevations and below in early December has been reported in parts of this region. It can be found down 50-100 cm. There have been no recent reports of avalanches on this layer. A large amount of new snow or warming temperatures have the potential to cause large avalanches on this layer.

The base of the snowpack is composed of crusts and weak faceted grains, particularly in thin snowpack areas east of the divide. 

Avalanches on both of these weak layers can be best managed by avoiding likely trigger spots such as steep, rocky slopes, with a shallow or thin to thick snowpack.

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Be aware of highly variable recent wind loading patterns.
• The best and safest riding will be on slopes that have soft snow without any slab properties.
• Look for signs of instability: whumphing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches.
• Keep your guard up at lower elevations. Wind slab formation has been extensive.