Continue choosing low consequence terrain to play in. A complex, and generally weak snowpack is forcing us to find fun on mellow slopes.
Several weak layers in the upper and middle portions of the snowpack are at prime depths for human triggering. Stay disciplined and choose low consequence lines. Use extra caution in steep, wind-sheltered terrain where buried surface hoar is most likely to be preserved. If triggered, persistent slabs could step down to deeper weak layers.
It remans possible that riders could trigger a weak layer of facets near the base of the snowpack. The most likely area to trigger it is in shallow areas with variable snow depths. Avoid thin and rocky start zones and select routes that avoid traveling through or under large avalanche paths.
On Sunday, across the region, several small (size 1-1.5) windslab avalanches were reported on various aspects in the alpine and at treeline. They were either triggered naturally, or by the weight of a rider on the slope.
On Thursday, west of Invermere, a large (size 2.5), naturally triggered Deep Persistent Slab avalanche was reported. It was in the alpine, and it's suspected that it was triggered by a combination of windloading, and morning sun warming the slope.
The possibility remains of triggering facets near the base of the snowpack, particularly on shallow, rocky slopes.
20-50 cm of snow since late January is settling, or has been redistributed by moderate southwest wind. This overlies another layer of windslab, or surface hoar sitting on facets or a thin sun crust.
50-70 cm below the surface, the mid-pack contains a layer buried in early to mid January that remains a concern. It mostly exists as surface hoar, but facets or a crust may also be present.
A layer from late November is found 75 to 150 cm deep and is part of a generally weak, faceted snowpack.
Snowpack depths range between 80 and 180 cm at treeline, with the shallowest depths found on the eastern edge of the region.
Monday Night
Partly cloudy. Possible trace of snow expected. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind, possibility of strong west at very high elevations. Treeline temperature around -5 °C.
Tuesday
Partly cloudy. 0-3 cm of snow expected. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind trending to strong at higher elevations. Treeline temperature around -3 °C.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and cloud. Possible trace of snow expected. Moderate northwest ridgetop wind, possibly strong at high elevations. Treeline temperature around -7 °C.
Thursday
Mix of sun and cloud. No new snow expected. Light to moderate southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperatures around -10 °C in the morning, rising to -5 °C through the day.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
