Seek the shade near tree line for the best and safest riding.
Confidence
Moderate - Due to the number of field observations
Weather Forecast
We'll see little change in the weather pattern: valley cloud and cool temperatures down low but sunny and relatively warm up high. TUESDAY: Sunny with increasing cloud in the afternoon. Light to moderate west wind. Freezing level near 2000 m with a colder air layer in the valleys. WEDNESDAY: Sunny with cloudy periods. Light northerly winds. Freezing level around 1200m.THURSDAY: Cloudy. Light wind. Freezing level near 2000 m.
Avalanche Summary
Over the past few days there have been small wet loose avalanches reported on steep south (west) aspects above 2400m elevation. A previous wind slab cycle has not shown any activity over the last few days.
Snowpack Summary
Wind slabs from last week are gaining strength and haven't shown signs of propagating (spreading across the slope) recently. That said, some wind slabs may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks, primarily on north through south east aspects. Below tree line, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.
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.