Expect to find hard wind slabs in unusual locations as the aftermath of strong variable winds.With another cold spell creeping in, make sure to pack the extra layer or two.
Variable wind directions have caused reverse loading. Strong to extreme winds in the past few days had a potential to create wind slabs farther down the slopes. Careful assessment is required with local terrain influences.
Natural deep avalanches are getting less frequent yet it remains a low probability and high consequence event if you push your luck.
Up to 15 cm of new snow being redistributed by strong winds. Wind slabs to be expected at all elevations. Cold temps penetrated deep into the upper snowpack promoting faceting. The mid-pack is supportive with the Dec 1st interface down 40cm in most locations. Basal faceting continues below the Nov 5 crust about 15cm up from the ground.
On Monday, field team in the parkway region saw no new avalanches, poor visibility to be considered. Saturday's explosive control on Medicine Slabs produced loose dry and fast moving facet avalanches to the road from steep treeline terrain.
Tuesday: Precipitation: Nil. Alpine temperature: High -18 °C. Light ridge wind.
Wednesday: Precipitation: Nil. Alpine temperature: Low -23 °C, High -18 °C. Ridge wind west: 10 km/h.
Thursday: Mainly cloudy with scattered flurries. Accumulation: 5 cm. Alpine temp: Low -23 °C, High -14 °C. Ridge wind southwest: 10 km/h.
