Avalanche Forecast

Moderate - Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations.

FRIDAY NIGHT: Clearing skies / Strong, southwesterly winds / Low of -10 / Freezing level surface.

SATURDAY: Snow/rain; 10-20 cm / Extreme, southwesterly winds / High of -2 / Freezing level rising to 1300 m.

SUNDAY: Snow/rain; 10-20 cm / Strong, southwesterly winds / High of -1 / Freezing level 1000 m

MONDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Light, westerly winds / High of -6 / Freezing level surface.

Several large, natural storm slab avalanches up to size 3 were reported on west and northwest aspects in the alpine on Thursday. 

20-30 cm of recent snow at upper elevations and strong southerly winds have created fresh storm slabs reactive to human triggers.

At treeline and below, the snow was likely moist and has formed a surface crust.

A crust formed in early November has been reported down 80-120 cm. There has been some evidence of large avalanches running on this crust. This will be a layer to monitor throughout the season.

• Give the new snow time to settle and stabilize before pushing into bigger terrain.
• Watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks or recent avalanches.
• Be especially cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Avoid freshly wind loaded terrain features.
• Remember that the snowpack will be significantly different at higher elevations than lower down.