Avalanche Forecast

Evidence of a natural avalanche cycle from Tuesday's storm, to size 1.5 is being observed at treeline and alpine elevations. Avalanche control done Wednesday with explosives produced some size 2 storm slab avalanches in steep, rocky, wind-loaded areas.

There are limited backcountry reports from the region however expect to see evidence of a natural cycle from the storm earlier this week where new snow amounted to +30 cm.

20 to 40 cm of snow and strong SW winds have formed thick storm slabs in lees. Sheltered terrain will likely have deep low density snow.

New snow sits on a variety wind-affected of surfaces. In the alpine, it overlies stubborn wind slabs that were formed by variable winds. A crust is reported to be found 60 to 90 cm deep however no results have been observed on it.

Even with the new snow, early-season hazards remain at treeline and below. Rocks and brush poke through a building snowpack that grows from 70 to 120 cm at treeline to 180 cm in the alpine. Much of the below treeline vegetation band is below the threshold for avalanches.

Thursday Night

Partially cloudy. Light southwest winds. Temperature of -15 C at 1500 m and freezing levels remain at valley bottom.

Friday

Partially cloudly with scattered flurries. Flurries will increase in intensity throughout the day accumulating up to 5 cm by evening. Light southwest winds switch to the east in the evening. Alpine temperatures stay cool with a high of -10. Freezing levels remain at valley bottom.

Few clouds and light easterly ridge winds. Alpine temperatures rise to -5. Freezing levels valley bottom.

Clear skies. Light northeast ridge winds. Alpine temperatuers high -2. Freezing levels stay at valley bottom.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.
• Avoid steep, rocky, and wind effected areas where triggering slabs is more likely.
• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind loaded snow.