Strong winds may build isolated wind slabs over a weak layer of surface hoar or facets along ridge crests.
Assess start zones for wind slabs before stepping out into steep terrain.
Strong, southerly winds have been redistributing surface facets and have likely formed small slabs at upper elevations. Slabs may be building over a weak surface hoar layer, making them more reactive.
No new avalanches have been reported in the past week.
There are few observations from this region. If you are getting out, please share observations like weather and riding conditions to the Mountain Information Network.
A widespread crust from mid January is continuing to break down into softer surface facets, improving ski quality. Strong southerly winds have been redistributing these facets and may form small wind slabs along ridgelines and steep terrain. Continued winds have stripped exposed alpine ridges back to hard, old surfaces and rock.
A layer of surface hoar has grown on top of the crust in sheltered areas away from the wind. Reports indicate it could be 10-15 mm in some treeline and below treeline features.
The mid-December facet/crust layer is buried approximately 80 cm deep.
Check out this MIN from Core Lodge for more details.
Wednesday Night
Partly cloudy. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing levels 1400 m.
Friday
Mix of sun and clouds. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.
Saturday
Mix of sun and clouds. 60 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
