If you're getting out in the extreme cold, remember that freezing temperatures make for higher consequences.
Watch for small pockets of wind slabs in places you might not expect them.
Strong outflow winds will have the potential to create reverse loading and build pockets of wind slabs at alpine and upper treeline elevations. In frigid temperatures, slabs may take longer than usual to heal and bond to the snow below them. Avoid wind-loaded features during this time of continuous strong north winds.
No avalanches have been reported in these areas. This is likely due to the shallow snowpack limiting riding opportunities for the time being. If you venture into the backcountry, please consider submitting a MIN report, as it helps to strengthen our data gathering.
Winds have shifted north this weekend, moving available snow back to south aspects and potentially creating wind slabs. The snowpack is generally highly wind-affected, resulting in a wide variation in snowpack depths. Ridges and high points at upper elevations have been scoured, while deep loaded pockets on northerly slopes are up to 150 cm. In isolated protected spots, there could be 10-15 cm of now-faceted newish snow over the top crust, but in most spots, that crust is exposed and rough. Treeline snow depth range from 60 to 90 cm.
Arctic air has arrived, and the region will remain extremely cold through Friday. Gusty northerly outflow winds and dangerous wind chill values are expected.
Sunday night
Clear skies. No precipitation. North winds at 40 km/h at ridge tops. Temperatures near -34˚C with the wind chill making it feel like -40˚C.
Monday
Mainly sunny. No precipitation. Northeast winds at 20 km/h at ridge tops. Temperatures near -32˚C with the wind chill making it feel like -40˚C.
Tuesday
Clear skies. No precipitation. Northeast winds at 20 km/h at ridge tops. Temperatures near -34˚C with the wind chill making it feel like -40˚C.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and clouds. No precipitation. Southwest winds at 30 km/h at ridge tops. Temperatures near -32˚C with the wind chill making it feel like -40˚C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
