Choose conservative terrain.
Wet loose avalanches are likely to be widespread and increasing in size throughout the day.
30-50 cm of snow sits over a weak layer of facets. This layer is expected to become increasingly reactive with warming temperatures.
Loose wet avalanches will become increasingly likely as the upper snowpack becomes wet due to elevated freezing levels.
Over the past week, we've seen numerous avalanches on the mid January facet layer detailed in the snowpack summary. Most recent activity has been rider or explosive triggered in wind-loaded terrain features, up to size 2.5. This activity is expected to continue with elevated freezing levels.
Light snowfall continues to accumulate in the alpine and be redistributed by southerly winds. Elevated freezing levels and rain have moistened the surface at treeline and below.
A layer of facets formed during the mid January cold snap sits 30-50 cm deep. This layer has been actively producing avalanches and is expected to continue as it is stressed by the new load.
The mid and lower snowpack is generally strong and well bonded.
Sunday Night
Mostly cloudy with light rain expected, south alpine wind 25 to 45km/h, freezing level around 1800 m.
Monday
A mix of sun and cloud with light rain expected, southwest alpine wind 25 to 50 km/h, freezing level rising to around 3000 m.
Tuesday
Mostly cloudy with trace amounts of snow in the alpine, south alpine wind 40 to 60 km/h, freezing level around 2700 m.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud with trace amounts of snow in the alpine, south alpine wind 25 to 50 km/h, freezing level around 2400 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
