As you explore new terrain, check if the recent snow is sticking to the old surface.
Slopes sheltered from the wind should still hold good riding and lower avalanche danger.
Recent snow and moderate to strong south through west wind has created wind slabs on leeward and cross-loaded slopes.
Retreat to mellower terrain if you find signs of instability like shooting cracks, or recent avalanches.
On Monday and Tuesday, north of Stewart, a small vehicle triggered wind slab avalanche was reported. Also, numerous small loose dry and storm slab avalanches were reported in the recent storm snow.
Up to 25 cm of recent snow and moderate to strong southeast through west wind may have formed reactive wind slabs on leeward slopes. Expect to find soft snow in sheltered areas. A layer of weak, feathery crystals may be found under the recent snow.
Wind has varied in direction over the past week. Expect most exposed slopes to be wind-affected.
A 2 to 10 cm thick rain crust can be found down 70 to 100 cm at 1400 m and below. This layer is currently not an avalanche concern.
At treeline there is an average snowpack depth of 300 cm. Snowpack depth tapers with elevation to around 50 cm at valley bottoms. Many early season hazards are just below the surface below treeline.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy. 2 to 5 cm of snow at treeline. 35 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.
Wednesday
Mostly cloudy. 3 to 5 cm of snow at treeline. 25-40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.
Thursday
Mostly cloudy. 5 to 10 cm of snow at treeline. 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 800 m.
Friday
Mostly sunny. 1 cm of snow at treeline. 10 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level 100 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
