Avalanche Forecast

High

• We have a good understanding of the snowpack structure and confidence in the weather forecast.

On Thursday in the Dogtooth Range, explosives triggered two size 1.5 cornices with very small subsequent wind slabs below.

On Wednesday, explosives triggered two large cornices in the Dogtooth Range. No subsequent slabs were triggered by the falling debris.

Avalanche activity is considered unlikely until the current weather pattern shifts.

If you head to the backcountry, consider sharing your photos and observations with the Mountain Information Network!

A widespread layer of surface hoar is growing in the region. It is not currently a concern, but may become problematic once buried by new snow.

Otherwise, a surface crust caps the snowpack, except for upper-elevation shady north through east-facing slopes, where some wind-affected powder still remains. On south-facing slopes, the crust may soften and melt for a short time on steep sunny slopes.

A couple of notable buried layers persist, but are currently not affecting stability:

• A layer of surface hoar or a sun crust buried 25-60 cm deep.

• A crust with facets can be found near the base of the snowpack (persisting in shallow areas).
  

Friday Night

Mostly clear skies. 35 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -13 °C.

Saturday

Mix of sun and clouds. 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -11 °C.

Sunday

Mostly sunny. 25 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -13 °C.

Monday

Mostly sunny. 40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -11 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Small avalanches can have serious consequences in extreme terrain. Carefully evaluate your line for slabs before you commit to it.
• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Periods of low danger may be a good time to increase your exposure.