Avalanche Forecast

No new avalanches were reported on Thursday.

Evidence of a natural loose wet and glide slab avalanche cycle that occurred on Wednesday continues to be reported.

On Tuesday, a size 1.5 skier-triggered wind slab avalanche was reported on a north aspect at 1900 m. The slab released on a weak layer of surface hoar below. This layer of surface hoar is spotty but may still be preserved in sheltered areas at treeline and in the subalpine.

The snow surface is highly variable. Surface hoar can be found in sheltered features at treeline, a crust exists on south facing slopes and the alpine is generally wind-affected.

A weak layer of surface hoar or facets is found 10 to 25 cm deep. This layer is a concern where wind slabs have formed above it.

A crust is buried 60 to 100 cm deep and may have a layer of surface hoar sitting above it. Recent tests show this layer as unreactive.

The remainder of the mid and lower snowpack is well-settled.

Snow depths at treeline are roughly 100 to 150 cm.

Friday Night

Clear skies. 25 to 45 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

Saturday

Mostly sunny. 15 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

Sunday

Sunny. 25 to 50 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -9 °C.

Monday

Sunny. 15 to 30 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Wind slabs are isolated, but may remain reactive.
• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• A hard crust on the snow surface will help strengthen the snowpack, but may cause tough travel conditions.
• If you are increasing your exposure to avalanche terrain, do it gradually as you gather information.