Avalanche Forecast

High -

FRIDAY: Scattered flurries, accumulation 5-10cm / Moderate to strong west wind / Alpine temperature -5SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud / Moderate to strong west wind / Alpine temperature -7SUNDAY: Cloudy with isolated flurries / Moderate southwest wind / Alpine temperature -8

Reports from the Fernie area indicate widespread natural and skier controlled avalanche activity to size 1.5. Most avalanches were isolated to the depth of 40cm in the most recent moist storm snow. These avalanches were happening at all elevations. There was one report of Size 3 natural avalanche running in steep alpine terrain on an east aspect. Previously buried surface hoar, facets, and/or a sun crust may increase the reactivity and propagation propensity of storm slabs.

Up to 40cm of moist new snow fell on Thursday to add an additional load to the 60-80cm of storm snow accumulated last weekend. Strong shifting winds redistributed the previous storm's snow in exposed terrain forming touchy wind slabs. These wind slabs are now obscured by the latest round of snowfall. The combined accumulation of multiple storms' snow overlies a highly variable old surface which included wind affected surfaces, a layer of surface hoar in sheltered areas, facets, and/or a thin sun crust. Recent reports suggest a poor bond between the new snow and the old surface. The mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and stable but isolated basal weaknesses may exist in shallow snowpack areas.