Kootenay Boundary

Lingering wind slabs may remain possible to trigger on Saturday.

Avoid steep, rocky, and wind affected areas where triggering slabs is most likely.

High

• We have a good understanding of the snowpack structure and confidence in the weather forecast.

On Thursday, several natural and skier triggered wind slabs up to size 1.5 were reported on north/east aspects in the alpine.

Numerous natural wet loose avalanches up to size 2 were also reported on steep sunny aspects.

If you are heading into the backcountry, please consider sharing conditions by posting a MIN.

10 to 20 cm of recent snow and moderate southwest winds formed wind slabs on lee aspects at upper elevations. These slabs are most likely to be reactive on steep slopes below ridgetops.

The recent snow sits on a crust that is 5 to 20 cm thick in most locations. It may become thinner at upper elevations.

The mid and lower snowpack is well settled and strong in most areas.

Friday Night
Partly cloudy. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.

Saturday
Mix of sun and clouds. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C.

Sunday
Mix of sun and clouds. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.

Monday
Mix of sun and clouds. 0 to 5 cm of snow. 30 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Stay off recently wind loaded slopes until they have had a chance to stabilize.
• Avoid steep, rocky, and wind-affected areas where triggering slabs is more likely.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.
• A moist or wet snow surface, pinwheeling, and natural avalanches are all indicators of a weakening snowpack.