Kitimat

Take it easy out there. Observations are limited and many early-season hazards are lurking just below the surface. It's a great time to refresh your rescue skills and check your gear.

On Friday, two size 2 dry loose avalanches were reported in Telkwa Pass on north aspects in the alpine.

Looking forward, the avalanche problem is likely to be confined to small wind slabs in isolated areas in the alpine and treeline.

If you do go into the backcountry, consider submitting a Mountain Information Network report.

Recent warm temperatures have likely created a moist or crusty snow surface in most places. In open areas above treeline, strong northwesterly winds have created heavily wind-affected surfaces and wind slabs.

The middle and lower snowpack are seemingly well-bonded, but observations have been limited.

The snowpack has an average depth of 50 cm at treeline and 80-150 cm in the alpine. Snow depth tapers rapidly below treeline.

Saturday night

Mostly cloudy with clear periods, no precipitation, northwest alpine wind 5 to 15 km/h, treeline temperature drops to -1°C.

Sunday

A mix of sun and cloud, no precipitation, west alpine wind 10 to 30 km/h, treeline temperature 0°C.

Monday

Cloudy with snow, 5 to 10 cm of accumulation, southwest alpine wind 40 to 70 km/h, treeline temperature -1°C

Tuesday

Mostly cloudy with isolated flurries, up to 5 cm of accumulation, west alpine wind 10 to 30 km/h, treeline temperature -1°C

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Early season avalanches at any elevation have the potential to be particularly dangerous due to obstacles that are exposed or just below the surface.
• Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
• Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.