Assess conditions in your area by checking the bond of the new snow to the old.
Remember, there is still a persistent problem.
A persistent weak layer of surface hoar or facets remain a concern in the upper 50 to 90 cm of the snowpack. Storm slabs in motion or cornice failures could step down to this layer causing larger than expected avalanches.
Avoid wind loaded features, especially at ridgetop. This is where riders are more likely to trigger a slab.
On Sunday, a few dry loose avalanches were seen from steep terrain. Observations were limited though.
On Saturday, a large (size 3) natural wind slab failed on a northeast aspect in the alpine, west of Mcbride.
On Friday, a large (size 2) natural persistent slab failed on a north-facing alpine slope near Crescent Spur.
20 to 35 cm of new snow has accumulated since Sunday, building reactive storm slabs. Sunny slopes and lower elevations will have moist or wet snow which may form into a crust overnight.
The early March crust / surface hoar persistent weak layer is down 50 to 90 cm. The greatest concern for this layer is on sheltered north and east-facing upper-elevation terrain. Another weak layer of facets or surface hoar from mid-February lies 70 to 100 cm deep. This layer appears to be strengthening and has not caused any recent avalanches. The lower snowpack remains well-settled with no layers of concern.
Monday Night
Partly cloudy. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Tuesday
Cloudy with 0 to 5 cm of snow. 10 to 20 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1500 m.
Wednesday
Cloudy with 5 to 10 cm of snow, possibly raining below 1500 m. 10 to 20 km/h southeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.
Thursday
Cloudy with 10 to 20 cm of snow. 30 to 40 km/h east ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
