Caution as you transition into wind-exposed terrain. Avalanches are possible near and above tree line where wind slabs have formed.
Use caution in wind-affected areas. New snow and strong westerly winds have likely formed wind slabs in lee terrain features at upper elevations that may be reactive to human triggering.
The notable feature in the weather forecast for the next few days is very high winds at upper elevations.
Tuesday night: Cloudy, 3-8 cm of snow possible, moderate southwest winds with strong gusts, alpine temperature -2 C, freezing level around 1400 m.
Wednesday: Cloudy, 3-8 cm of snow possible, moderate southwest winds with strong gusts, alpine high temperature -1 C, freezing level around 1600 m.
Thursday: Cloudy with periods of sun, isolated flurries with a trace of accumulation, moderate southwest winds, alpine high temperature -3 C, freezing level around 900 m.
Friday: Mix of sun and cloud, isolated flurries with a trace of accumulation, moderate southwest winds, alpine high temperature -1 C, freezing level around 1700 m.
There have been few recent avalanches reported in the region. A couple of small wind slabs triggered by explosives have been observed. If you are getting out into the mountains, let us know what you see by posting to the Mountain Information Network!
Strong westerly winds have been transporting the 10-15 cm of recent snow into wind slabs on lee features at upper elevations. These slabs sit on a mix of sugary faceted snow and hard wind affected snow.
The total snowpack depth is between 50-100 cm in the alpine, and tapers rapidly at lower elevations. Two crusts have been reported in the middle of the snowpack. There is uncertainty as to how well the snow is bonding to these crusts.
