Avalanche Forecast

On Thursday and Friday, numerous small to large natural and rider triggered avalanches were reported in the recent snow.

The early December persistent weak layer was most problematic in the south end of this region. The last reported avalanche on this layer was a remote trigger on December 22, on a west-facing slope at 2200 m, west of Revelstoke. An avalanche on this layer would be unlikely but large and high consequence.

As moderate snowfall continues, expect to find 25 to 60 cm of settling snow in sheltered areas, and wind slabs on lee slopes below peaks and ridgelines. On sun affected slopes, the recent snow covers a melt freeze crust.

A layer of surface hoar, crust and/or facets exists 60-110 cm deep. Reports indicate this layer is hard to find and likely not a concern north of Highway 5. South of Highway 5, no avalanches have been reported on this layer since December 22, but we aren't ready to ignore it just yet. It's most likely to linger on large, open, sheltered slopes at treeline.

Cornices may be large, and weakened from mild temperatures.

Snow depth at treeline is 120-150 cm.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy with up to 2 cm of snow. 5 to 10 km/h south ridgetop winds. Treeline temperatures -8 °C.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy with 4 to 8 cm of snow, possible hotspots of 20 cm or more. 10 to 25 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Sunday

Partly cloudy with up to 5 cm of snow, possible hotspots of 15 cm or more. 5 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Monday

Mostly cloudy with 1-2 cm of snow. 5 to 10 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
• Be especially cautious as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
• Watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, or recent avalanches.