Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

• We are uncertain about forecast precipitation amounts.
• We are confident that there are persistent slabs in the snowpack, but uncertain about how likely they are to trigger.

Following last week’s widespread avalanche cycle, temperatures have dropped, and avalanche activity has been minimal. A couple of large cornice failures (up to size 3) were reported over the weekend, occurring during periods of strong sun.

Avalanche likelihood and size are expected to increase with forecast snowfall over the coming days.

Approximately 20 to 40 cm of new snow has accumulated since Saturday. Below this snow, a thick, strong melt-freeze crust exists at roughly 2100 m and below. At higher elevations, the new snow may rest on a thinner crust, moist snow, or older wind-affected surfaces.

Deeper weak layers may persist within the snowpack, particularly at higher elevations where last week’s precipitation fell as snow rather than rain. However, the strength and depth of the upper snowpack make these layers very unlikely to be triggered.

Monday Night
Mostly cloudy. 1 to 2 cm of snow. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Tuesday
Mostly cloudy. 4 to 10 cm of snow. 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Wednesday
Mostly cloudy. 4 to 10 cm of snow. 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. 2 to 5 cm of snow. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche danger is expected to increase throughout the day.
• Be careful with wind-loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and rollovers.
• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Use extra caution around cornices: they are large, fragile, and can trigger slabs on slopes below.