Up to 60cm of new storm snow distributed through the forecast region.
Look carefully for signs of localized instability and wind effect before committing to big features.
Light to moderate W through SW winds will transport snow into immediate lees in the alpine and, eventually exposed treeline features
Size and likelihood dependent terrain. Previous surface faceting could make this problem more reactive.
Soft slabs will continue to develop as the new load settles. The potential exists for avalanches to step down to deeper layers.
Tonight: Cloudy with clear periods, isolated flurries and a trace of new snow. Temp: -15 C. Ridge wind W: 15 km/h.
Thursday: Cloudy with flurries. Accumulation: 4 cm. Temp: High -9 C. Ridge wind west: 15-35 km/h.
Friday: A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries. Temp: Low -23 C, High -10 C. Ridge wind northwest: 15 km/h gusting to 50 km/h
40-60cm of new storm snow appears to be bonding well to the old surface, on a mixed form/facet interface giving hard, sudden planar results in field tests at the Icefields. Soft-slab will continue to develop on all aspects and elevations as the snow settles. Mid-pack remains strong underfoot except in areas where the snowpack is less than 100cm.
A determined avalanche control team worked hard Tuesday to produced a few good results, up to size 2.5 on a very stubborn storm interface in low elevation targets with several large triggers. A natural avalanche cycle continues with observed loose dry and soft slabs to sz 1.5 on many aspects.
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