Pay attention to the impact of warm temperatures and back off avalanche terrain if you encounter signs of instability.
Recent low-density storm snow has been redistributed by variable winds into deeper deposit in wind-loaded terrain. Warming on Saturday may settle the storm snow into a more cohesive slab, forming a more widespread storm slab problem.
On Thursday, numerous natural dry loose avalanche (size 1) were observed from the Coquihalla highway. No other avalanches were reported, but observation have been limited by stormy weather.
If you head into the backcountry, please consider submitting a MIN report.
Up to 30 cm of recent, low-density snow has been redistributed by variable alpine winds. Below the new snow are various old surfaces, including firm wind-affected snow, faceted crystals, and surface hoar, all of which may prolong the bonding between new snow and underlying surfaces.
The mid and lower snowpack contains various old crusts and is generally well-settled and stable.
With recent snowfalls, lower elevation areas may now be at the threshold for avalanches.
Friday night
Clear periods, no new precipitation. Alpine wind south 5 to 25 km/h. Treeline temperature -1 °C, with an above freezing layer in the alpine.
Saturday
Cloudy with sunny periods and no new snow. Alpine wind light and variable. Treeline temperature 0 °C, with an above freezing layer in the alpine.
Sunday
A mix of sun and cloud with no new snow. Alpine wind south 20 to 40 km/h. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1500 m.
Monday
Cloudy with mixed precipitation, up to 5 cm of new snow accumulation at higher elevations. Alpine wind 10 to 40 km/h from the southwest. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level rising to 1500 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
