The weather pattern is finally changing for the better and new snow is on the way. Watch for changing avalanche conditions in your local riding area.
Confidence
Moderate - Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain
Weather Forecast
The weather pattern is finally changing. A weak frontal system will break down the persistent valley cloud and temperature inversions bringing upper elevation clouds, snow accumulations 3-7 cm, and light SW winds. By Wednesday the Cariboo region will see an additional 8-15 cm of new snow with strong SW winds and alpine temperatures near -10. Unsettled conditions continue through Thursday.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches have been reported. With new snow accompanied by strong winds, loose dry and isolated wind slab problems may persist through the forecast period.
Snowpack Summary
New surface hoar growth and continued faceting persists up to ridgetop. Isolated wind slabs may be lurking behind ridges and ribs. Wind slabs or loose dry snow overlie old surfaces including surface hoar, facets, and possible sun crusts on steep southerly aspects. Cold and dry weather is drying out the upper snowpack (through faceting). In general, the mid and lower snowpack are strong, with any weak layers considered dormant for now. Snowpack depths are variable. Shallow snowpack areas may have weak facetted crystals near the ground.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer of snow (a slab) formed by the wind. Wind typically transports snow from the upwind sides of terrain features and deposits snow on the downwind side. Wind slabs are often smooth and rounded and sometimes sound hollow, and can range from soft to hard. Wind slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.