Minimize exposure to cornices, warm temperatures and sun will weaken them
Rising temperatures may trigger wet avalanches on steep south slopes, especially with recent snow near the divide
Cornice falls are unpredictable will weaken rapidly with warming on Friday. Avoid exposure to large cornices, on ridgelines and on the slopes below.
Rising temperatures and strong sunshine will increase potential for wet avalanches. Warming will be most intense on steep south facing slopes, especially near rocks.
Size 1 to 2 wet loose avalanches occurred across the region during the warm, sunny weather on Sunday and Monday.
With rapid warming expected, avalanche activity is likely to increase.
Wednesday’s storm delivered 10 to 20 cm of snow on top of a thick melt-freeze crust in the Rockies. The snowpack is generally well bonded, with no concerning layers, and continues to melt rapidly at lower elevations.
Dry snow exists over crust on high north-facing slopes. South facing slopes and lower elevations will become moist from sun and warm temperatures.
The snowpack is generally well bonded, with no concerning layers, and continues to melt rapidly at lower elevations.
Thursday Night
Mostly clear skies. 10 to 20 km/h north ridgetop wind. Freezing level drops to 500 m.
Friday
Sunny. 10 to 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +4 °C. Freezing level 2500 m.
Saturday
Mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature +2 °C. Freezing level 2300 m.
Sunday
Cloudy with 10 to 20 cm of snowfall possible. 30 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 2000 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
