At present, the best riding conditions are found below treeline, as wind has significantly affected the snow in the alpine and at treeline. Cold temperatures have preserved snow quality in wind-sheltered areas, but the cold would greatly complicate the management of an accident. Ski cautiously.
In the alpine and at treeline, stacked wind slabs are present. Because the upper wind slabs are relatively hard, it is difficult for a skier to initiate a fracture that could trigger an avalanche. However, triggering one remains possible. Before committing to a descent, carefully evaluate the consequences of a release and choose your terrain accordingly.
No new avalanches reported or observed.
If you head into the backcountry, thanks for sharing your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).
Recent strong winds have significantly redistributed the snow in the alpine and at treeline. Many aspects are scoured. On leeward aspect, a combination of wind-affected snow and stacked wind slabs is present.
The upper and mid-snowpack is stabilizing and becoming progressively denser. At the base of the snowpack, a combination of crusts and faceted grains extends down to the ground.
The average snowpack depth at mid-mountain is approximately 120 cm.
Cold temperatures will remain firmly in place this week.
Tuesday night: Partly cloudy. Northwest winds at 20–40 km/h. Low of −21 °C.
Wednesday: Increasing cloud cover in the afternoon. Northwest winds at 30–50 km/h. High of −16 °C.
Thursday: Snow. Accumulation of 4–8 cm. Northwest winds at 10–20 km/h. High of −12 °C.
Friday: Cloudy. Accumulation of 2–4 cm. Northwest winds at 20–40 km/h. High of −11 °C.
