We are uncertain about the distribution and reactivity of the recently fallen snow, resting on the melt-freeze crust of April 3. Please assess the slopes carefully before setting off.
In the mountains, we can find a layering of different wind slabs, both recent and older. These rest on a melt-freeze crust, providing an excellent sliding surface.
A MIN has been published on Avalanche Canada’s website regarding the incident that occurred on April 5th on Mount Albert.
If you are heading into the backcountry, please share your observations on the Mountain Information Network (MIN).
In alpine zones and at treeline, conditions vary from a frozen surface, or even hard ice and rock, to wind-blown snow accumulation.
Below treeline, a thin melt-freeze crust may be observed on the surface up to around 600 m altitude. A 15-25 cm layer of fresh snow lies on top of a breakable melt-freeze crust dating back to April 3. The middle of the snowpack consists of alternating well-consolidated snow and melt-freeze crusts.
At higher altitudes, the eastern and southeastern slopes benefit from better snow cover, while the southern, western and northern slopes are rather bald. At mid-mountain, snow depth varies between 60 and 180 cm.
A rather sunny and pleasant day in the mountains on Monday.
Sunday evening and night: Partly cloudy. Wind northwest, 40-50 km/h. Low -11.
Monday: Clearing in the afternoon. Wind northwest, 20 to 40 km/h. High -5.
Tuesday: Cloudy. Snow late in the day. Accumulation, 5 to 10 cm. Light southeast winds. High -2.
Wednesday: Intermittent snow. Accumulation 2 to 5 cm. Westerly winds. High -8.
For more details, read the Chic-Chocs alpine weather forecast.
