Avalanche Forecast

On Sunday, northeast of Stewart, a couple of large (up to size 2.5) helicopter triggered avalanches were reported on wind-loaded northwest facing slopes in open, treeline terrain.

If you are getting out in the backcountry, consider making a post on the MIN (Mountain Information Network).

30-75 cm of settling snow sits on a widespread crust in all but sheltered, north-facing slopes at treeline and above. This crust was formed in early April, and where it doesn't exist, isolated pockets of small surface hoar (weak feathery crystals) and/or loose, sugary faceted snow may be found.

Moderate to strong south or southwest winds have likely formed deeper, more reactive deposits of snow in leeward terrain.

Previously problematic layers deeper in the snowpack appear to have bonded and strengthened, however, there is a small chance that they could remain a risk in steep, north-facing, high alpine terrain.

Monday Night

Cloudy. 5 to 10 cm of snow expected above 500 m. Moderate to strong southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature around -5 °C.

Tuesday

Cloudy. 0 to 1 cm of snow expected above 750 m. light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature around -4 °C.

Wednesday

Mostly cloudy. 7 to 10 cm of snow expected above 800 m. Moderate to strong south ridgetop wind. Treeline high around -2 °C.

Thursday

Mostly cloudy. 8 to 15 cm of snow expected above 1000 m. Moderate to strong south ridgetop wind, dying down through the day. Treeline high around -1 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
• Avoid steep convex slopes.
• Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.
• Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.