Wind has transported the new snow into slabs and continues to build large fragile cornices.
Even brief periods of strong sun can begin to destabilize the snowpack.
New snow and south west winds have formed small wind slabs in leeward terrain features. Take extra care around treeline gullies or couloires where these are more likely to exist.
As temperatures rise and sun prevails, expect the large and weakening cornices to collapse. Give a wide berth to cornices and be very aware of overhead hazard.
On Tuesday, avalanche control work conducted south of Hope produced a few small (size 1-1.5) loose dry and slab avalanches with good propagation but not running fast or very far.
If you are heading into the backcountry, consider sharing your observations and posting a MIN.
Up to 35 cm of new has fallen over the past week. As temperature warmed, this new snow has settled and bonded with 50 cm of snow that is above a widespread, thick and hard crust that exists everywhere except the highest alpine terrain.
Steep south facing slopes may be crusty or moist depending on time of day and sun exposure.
The lower snowpack is generally strong and bonded.
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 1300 m.
Saturday
Mix of sun and clouds. 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1600 m.
Sunday
Mostly sunny. 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 5 °C. Freezing level 2600 m.
Monday
Mostly sunny. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 6 °C. Freezing level 2700 m.
Warming weather will change the game, click this link for great terrain and travel advice.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
