While large avalanches are unlikely with the thin early-season snowpack, pockets of reactive wind slab may persist on many steep slopes, near ridgetops, and on rollovers
New snow and strong westerly winds have likely formed reactive wind slabs in leeward and cross-loaded terrain in the alpine and treeline.
No recent avalanches have been reported, but observations are limited at this time of year. New snow and wind may have formed fresh, reactive wind slabs.
Let us know what you are seeing by posting a MIN if you are heading out in the backcountry!
Small amounts of new snow continue to accumulate, accompanied by moderate to strong westerly winds. In some areas, up to 20 cm of recent snow has likely buried a mix of faceted grains or surface hoar in sheltered locations. While firm, wind-affected snow exists in exposed terrain.
A supportive melt-freeze crust is present 20–50 cm below the surface at lower elevations, but appears to be generally absent at higher elevations below treeline (~1500 m) and above.
Average snow depths at treeline range from 40 to 70 cm.
At lower elevations, the snowpack thins significantly, and a rain crust may be encountered. Expect highly variable snow conditions and quality.
Monday Night
Cloudy. Trace amounts of snow at treeline. 50 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Tuesday
Mostly cloudy. 1 to 5 cm of snow at treeline. 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Wednesday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 2 cm of snow at treeline. 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Thursday
Mix of sun and clouds. 1 to 5 cm of snow at treeline. 60 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
