As you explore new terrain, check if the recent snow is sticking to the old surface.
Slopes sheltered from the wind could still hold good riding and lower avalanche danger.
Recent snow and moderate to strong south through west wind has created wind slabs on leeward and cross-loaded slopes.
Retreat to mellower terrain if you find signs of instability like shooting cracks, or recent avalanches.
On Wednesday, west of Bell II, several large (up to size 2.5) glide slab avalanches were reported.
On Tuesday, north of Stewart, a small vehicle triggered wind slab avalanche was reported. Also, numerous small (up to size 1.5) loose dry avalanches were reported below 1500 m, and small (up to size 1.5) wind slab avalanches in northerly alpine terrain.
If you are getting out in the backcountry, consider making a post on the MIN (Mountain Information Network).
Up to 25 cm of recent snow and moderate to strong southeast through west wind may have formed reactive wind slabs on leeward slopes. Expect to find soft snow in sheltered areas. A layer of weak, feathery crystals may be found under the recent snow.
A 2 to 10 cm thick rain crust can be found down 50 to 100 cm at 1400 m and below. This layer is currently not an avalanche concern.
At treeline we expect a snow depth of 250 cm or more. Snowpack depth tapers with elevation to around 50 cm at valley bottoms. Many early season hazards are just below the surface below treeline.
Wednesday Night
Cloudy. 2 to 4 cm of snow. 40-50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1100 m.
Thursday
Cloudy. 1 to 5 cm of snow. 40 km/h west ridgetop wind in the morning, dropping to 25 km/h. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1100 m.
Friday
Mostly cloudy. 10 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level 300 m.
Saturday
Mostly cloudy. 5 to 10 cm of snow. 30 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C. Freezing level 200 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
