Lizard-Flathead

Don't let the recent snow lure you into consequential terrain.

Surface instabilities may remain reactive to riders.

Choose low-consequence terrain and watch for signs of instability.

Widespread avalanche activity with numerous large slabs (size 2 to 2.5) was observed over the weekend on northerly alpine features near Fernie.

Skiers also produced several small loose dry avalanches (size 1.5) on steep sheltered treeline slopes in the region.

If you head out in the backcountry, let us know what you are seeing by submitting a MIN report!

Recent snow accumulations vary across the region. In localized areas, 30 to 50 cm of settling snow can be found. Previous moderate southwest wind has redistributed this snow, forming deeper deposits on leeward slopes at higher elevations.

Below the new snow, a thick melt-freeze crust exists below approximately 1500 m.

The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and stable.

Snow depths at treeline range from 140 to 220 cm.

Monday Night

Cloudy with up to 5 cm of new snow. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.

Tuesday

Mostly cloudy, with isolated flurries. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

Wednesday

Cloudy with up to 5 cm of new snow. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

Thursday

Mostly cloudy, with isolated flurries. 20 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Look for signs of instability: whumphing, hollow sounds, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches.
• Be careful with sluffing in steep terrain, especially above cliffs and terrain traps.
• Pay attention to the wind; once it starts to blow, sensitive wind slabs are likely to form.