North Columbia

Wind slabs can still be triggered by riders.

Be careful as you transition into wind-affected terrain.

Several skier-triggered and natural wind slab avalanches were reported on Friday and Saturday. Although avalanches have tapered off in the last few days, wind slabs may still be reactive to riders.

5 to 10 cm of new snow covers a thin crust in some areas. A spotty layer of surface hoar (feathery crystals) is found 40 to 50 cm deep. On south-facing slopes, this layer is a crust.

The surface hoar on the crust/facet layer, found 90 to 160 cm down, is hard to find and likely not a concern north of Highway 5. South of Highway 5 it may linger on north through east aspects between 1700 to 2300 m.

Monday night

Mostly clear. 10 to 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny. 20 to 30 km/h west ridgetop winds. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

Wednesday

Cloudy with 5 to 10 cm of snow. 30 to 60 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

Thursday

Scattered cloud. 20 to 30 km/h southwest wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Recent wind has varied in direction, so watch for wind slabs on all aspects.
• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
• Avoid areas where the snow feels stiff and/or slabby.