Avalanche Forecast

Fair - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain

Another Pacific frontal system is expected to hit the coastal areas Thursday into Friday. The upper flow will become Southwesterly and a ridge should develop for the weekend, bringing dryer conditions. Wednesday: Light- moderate precipitation amounts. Ridgetop winds light from the SE. Freezing levels near 1400 m. Thursday: Moderate-heavy precipitation amounts. Ridgetop winds strong from the S-SW. Freezing levels falling to valley bottom. Friday: Light precipitation. Ridgetop winds moderate from the SW. Freezing levels rising to 1000 m.

On Monday, numerous natural glide avalanches were reported up to size 3. Several loose wet avalanches up to size 2.5 that ran to ground have also been observed in response to warming from rainfall and sunshine.

Spring-like conditions exist through the region. Melt and frozen surfaces continue on all aspects. Slopes that start to become wet, and slushy should be avoided because loose wet avalanches may occur. Lately, a lack of consistent overnight freezing has left the snowpack weak and unconsolidated, although some re-freezing has been reported in some areas. Glide cracks have opened up and pose the threat of large, full-depth releases, especially on steep rocky terrain features at low elevations. Large cornices loom, and ice cliffs pose a threat from above. For more information on Spring Conditions and ways to mitigate risk, please visit the new Forecasters Blog Post.