Northwest Coastal

Continue to assess for signs of instability. Isolated storm or wind slabs may linger at higher elevations.

Numerous, natural loose wet avalanches up to size 2 were reported Wednesday, primarily on steep south-facing terrain and at lower elevations.

On Wednesday a few human-triggered storm or wind slab avalanches were reported throughout the region, occurring at treeline or above, and no larger than size 1.

Approximately 40 cm of recent snow has buried a widespread crust in all but sheltered, north-facing slopes where isolated pockets of surface hoar and/or faceted grains may exist below the new snow.

Previously problematic layers deeper in the snowpack appear to have bonded and strengthened, however, there is a low likelihood that they could remain a risk in steep, north-facing, high alpine terrain.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear skies. 0 to 20 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level 600 m.

Friday

Partly cloudy. 10 to 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy with 2 to 8 cm of snow. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1200 m.

Sunday

Mostly cloudy with 2 to 10 cm of snow. 50 to 70 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1200 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Make observations and assess conditions continually as you travel.
• Don't be too cavalier with decision making, storm slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.
• Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.
• Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet