Despite the "Moderate" avalanche danger the weak nature of the lower snowpack is still a concern. Human triggered avalanches are still possible as demonstrated by the full depth avalanche on Helen Shoulder on Wednesday. Caution around steeper features and larger alpine terrain is warranted.
Most of the alpine is either scoured or wind pressed however lingering wind slabs can still be found. If triggered, these wind slabs could step down to the basal facets.
The bottom layers of the snowpack are facetted and weak in most areas. Given the unpredictable nature of this problem, use caution when venturing on to any steeper slope.
On Wednesday a group near Helen Shoulder remote triggered (from 30 m) a size 2 two avalanche on a south aspect at 2450m. The avalanche failed on the deep persistent layer near the ground.
Wind effect, scouring and isolated hard wind slabs can be found in the alpine and some locations at treeline. Sheltered areas at and below treeline have large surface hoar over top of loose faceted snow. The mid-pack contains a rain-crust (below 2300m) in most areas and is somewhat settled and (mostly) supportive to skiers.
The base of the snowpack is a mix of weak facets and depth hoar.
Treeline snow depths range from 60-100 cm.
A ridge of high pressure over the area will result in mostly clear skies and no forecasted snow through Saturday. Ridge-top winds will be light to moderate from the south-west. Freezing levels will be near valley bottom with a chance of an above freezing layer near 2500m on Saturday.
For more information, click Mountain Weather Forecast.
