Dig down and look for the buried persistent layer before committing to consequential terrain.
It's still cold out! be sure to pack extra layers in case of emergency.
Variable winds have transported recent snow, creating wind affected snow on all aspects. Use caution in wind affected terrain and be aware that any wind slab avalanches could step down to our persistent weak layer
20-40cms of recent snow is settling over a buried weak layer. This weak layer is consists of surface hoar, facets and suncrust (on south and west facing slopes). It will be most reactive where there is a settled cohesive slab.
Natural avalanche activity has eased.
Neighboring operations are reporting rider & remote triggered avalanches on the Jan 30th layer.
A sz 2 wind slab was triggered by a skier part way down Forever Young, resulting in injuries.
A sz 1.5 wind slab on the Ravens was observed while flying to the above accident.
Funky variable winds have caused widespread wind effect. This wind effect is most prominent in the alpine & treeline but does exist BTL in areas affected by localised valley winds.
20-40cms of recent storm snow has buried a weak layer of surface hoar, facets and/or suncrust (Jan 30).
The midpack is either firm, wind pressed surfaces or low density sugary snow in sheltered areas.
The Jan 7th layer is down 50-80cm, comprised of surface hoar and/or a thin crust on steep S aspects.
Continuing cold as the arctic ridge persists.
Tonight Clear with cloudy periods. Alpine low -16°C. Ridge wind E 15km/hr.
Fri A mix of sun & cloud. Alpine high -14°C. Ridge wind: SW 10-20km/hr. Freezing Level at valley bottom.
Sat Cloud & sun with isolated flurries. Alpine high -15°C. Ridge wind W-20-30km/h.
Sun A mix of sun & cloud with flurries. Alpine high -18°C. Ridge wind NW 15-25km/h.
