Monitor surface conditions as you travel, especially as you transition into wind affected terrain
Wind slabs are most reactive during their formation
Look for wind affected snow around ridgelines. The most reactive slabs will likely be found on east and north facing slopes, however older and more stubborn slabs may linger on west facing slopes.
A MIN report from the Gorge near Revelstoke noted obvious wind effect in exposed areas, and loose dry sluffing in steep and sheltered terrain.
We expect continued winds and mild temperatures to build fresh and reactive wind slabs, likely sensitive to human triggers.
Observations remain limited this early in the season. If you head into the backcountry, please post to the Mountain Information Network.
Surface conditions vary from wind affected surfaces in exposed terrain at higher elevations, and settling snow in sheltered areas that may include a layer of surface hoar buried 5 to 10 cm deep. Warmer temperatures will likely affect the surface snow and may produce a crust overnight.
Overall, the snowpack is generally well-bonded and settled with crusts present in the mid to lower snowpack. Snow depths at treeline range from 80 to 150 cm, with depths rapidly tapering off at lower elevations.
Monday Night
Partly cloudy. 30 to 50 km/h west ridgetop winds. Treeline temperatures around -5 °C.
Tuesday
Mostly cloudy. 5 cm possible for the Cariboos. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. The above freezing layer brings treeline temperatures around 0 °C.
Wednesday
Cloudy with isolated flurries possible for the Cariboos. Sunnier skies further south. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. The above freezing layer brings treeline temperatures around 0 °C.
Thursday
Mostly cloudy. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. The above freezing layer brings treeline temperatures around 0 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
