There are dramatic differences in the snowpack from the Icefields to Whistler creek areas. Whistler area is significantly less supportive to skiers and one large avalanche was triggered by skiers four days ago off Indian Ridge. Use caution!
Wind slabs are widespread through the region with new and previous loading in lee features. Sensitivity will vary with local loading and wind patterns. Winds continue to blow strong.
Triggering could occur from shallow snowpack areas or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering will likely be severe!
Variable strength windslab on most surfaces treeline and above. Solar crusts on steep South aspects up to 2200m. Pronounced cornice development on northerly aspects and cross loaded features treeline and above. The mid-pack is bridging the deeper basal facets and depth hoar in some locations but there is allot of variability.
No new avalanches reported from field team in the Circus valley near Portal creek.
Saturday will be a mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries, 5cm of snow overnight, -8 C, and West winds 15 km/h gusting to 45 km/h. Sunday will bring 7 cm of snow, and -15 to -5 C with light winds.
Find the Alberta Rockies weather synopsis here: Mountain Weather Forecast
