Watch for changing conditions as you change aspect and elevation.
The highest avalanche danger will be on wind-loaded slopes, and steep slopes seeing intense spring sun.
Where powder snow prevails, check the bond of the new snow to old surfaces, especially around ridgelines or steep entrances. Warm temperatures may also increase the reactivity of lingering slabs.
Cornices are more likely to fall when the daytime temperature is at its highest and the sun is out.
With above zero temperatures remaining into the alpine overnight, expect surface snow to remain wet or moist on all aspects. Wet avalanches will be largest and most likely in the heat of the afternoon on slopes facing the sun.
On Sunday, southeast of Glacier National Park, several large (size 2) loose wet avalanches were reported on steep slopes facing the sun.
In a similar area on Saturday, a small (size 1) remote human triggered avalanche was reported on a steep, wind-loaded feature.
Please consider submitting a MIN to let us know what you're seeing out there.
Sun and rising freezing levels will turn snow moist during the day, warm temperatures overnight will likely prevent a strong crust from forming.
At higher elevations, 20 to 40 cm of recent snow sits on moist snow below treeline or a hard melt-freeze crust in the alpine. Some areas may have facets on this crust; field data is limited, so investigate in your area.
A thick crust from mid-March is 30-80 cm deep, which extends up to about 2400 m. Near Invermere, a weak layer of facets may be found above this crust.
Check out this Conditions Update for tips on managing the current spring conditions.
Monday Night
Clear skies. 40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 5 °C. Freezing level 3000 m.
Tuesday
Sunny. 35 km/h southwest ridgetop wind, dropping off to 15 km/h through the day. Treeline temperature 6 °C. Freezing level rising to 3200 m.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 5 mm of rain at treeline. 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 3 °C. Freezing level 2700 m.
Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. 5 to 10 cm of snow. 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
