Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

On Wednesday a group near Helen Shoulder remote triggered (from 30 m) a size 2 two avalanche on a south aspect at 2450m. The avalanche failed on the deep persistent layer near the ground.

Ski hills have also reported some windslab activity, up to size 1 both naturally and with explosives.

Wind effect, scouring and isolated hard wind slabs can be found in the alpine and some locations at treeline. Surface hoar is growing in sheltered areas below treeline. The mid-pack contains a rain-crust (below 2300m) in most areas and is somewhat settled and (mostly) supportive to skiers and boarders.

The base of the snowpack is a mix of weak facets and depth hoar.

Treeline snow depths range from 60-100 cm.

Mainly sunny conditions will continue as southwest winds remain moderate and temps mild, with a tree line high of -4 C . We may also see an above freezing layer develop on Saturday. This AFL will be based around 2200 m, topping out near 2700 m with a max. temperature around +1 C. These conditions should persist through most of Saturday, into early Sunday morning.     

For more information, click Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche hazard may have improved, but be mindful that deep instabilities are still present.
• Early season avalanches at any elevation have the potential to be particularly dangerous due to obstacles that are exposed or just below the surface.