A persistent weak layer of surface hoar remains a concern at tree line and below. Conservative terrain choice is required as there is a high degree of uncertainty surrounding the distribution and reactivity of this layer.
A layer of surface hoar (up to 40mm at tree line and below) is buried 20-60cm deep . The size and reactivity of this surface hoar layer is extremely variable depending on aspect and elevation. Consider any whumping a huge red flag.
Expect dry loose avalanche activity on steep slopes and in areas where new snow sits over old crusts.
A solar triggered, natural cycle was observed on Thursday along the highway corridor, with avalanches up to size 3.0
Human triggering continues on the late January persistent weak layer. Avalanches have been more prevalent below treeline(MIN) and in unsupported terrain. See the MIN in Connaught creek on Tues of a rider remote avalanche, size 1.5.
New snow on Saturday will sit over a crust in most areas leading to small, dry loose avalanches.
Approximately 40cm beneath the surface is the late Jan weak layer of surface hoar, facets and a crust. This layer is widespread with largest surface hoar (up to 40mm) in sheltered areas at treeline and below .
The mid and lower snowpack is generally well settled and strong.
Cooling trend starting Friday night with snow forecast on the weekend.
Tonight: Mainly cloudy. Alp low -3°C. Wind SW 30-45 km/h. (FZL) 1000m.
Sat: Flurries, 5-10 cm. High -3°C. Wind SW 30-40 km/h. FZL 1600m.
Sun: Cloudy w/flurries, 5 cm. High -5°C. Wind SW 20 gusting to 45km/h. FZL 1600m.
Mon: Mainly cloudy. No precipitation. Light wind. FZL 1300m.
