Avalanche Forecast

Numerous size 1 skier triggered storm and wind slab avalanches were reported over the weekend. These avalanches were typically at treeline or above on north and east aspects. Reports indicate that the recent storm snow is not bonding well to the underlying weak layers as these avalanches were easy to trigger.

15 to 25 cm of new snow has fallen with southerly wind, forming wind slab on northerly aspects. In sheltered terrain this new snow may overlie soft, faceted snow or surface hoar. In exposed terrain it will overlie a sun crust or wind-affected snow.

At lower elevations a new crust could be on or near the surface.

A late-January weak layer (hard crust, facets, or surface hoar) is buried 80 to 120 cm deep, it is not currently a concern.

The lower snowpack is strong and bonded.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy with trace amounts of snow possible. 10 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.

Tuesday

Cloudy with 0 to 1 cm of snow in the afternoon. 10 to 25 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.

Wednesday

Cloudy with 15 to 40 mm of mixed precipitation. 30 to 50 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Freezing level rising to 1400 m.

Thursday

Mostly cloudy with up to 5 mm of mixed precipitation. 10 to 25 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
• Seek out sheltered terrain where new snow hasn't been affected by wind.
• Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.
• Closely monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surface.