The wind has had limited affect on the surface snow over the last week. If the wind increases expect windslabs to build quickly.
Weak facets and depth hoar near the base of the snowpack. The main concern is where for this problem is where a stiffer slab overlays the weak faceted lower snowpack. This layer is more "sensitive" in very shallow snowpack areas.
Reports of numerous natural small loose dry out of steep terrain on Highway 93N and 93S.
Evidence of a large deep avalanche off of Mount Lefroy North East face was observed on Jan 3rd that we believe to be 24-48 hours old.
Lake Louise had limited explosive results during control on the 3rd, some small loose dry.
Sunshine had a couple explosive results in Delirium Dive (size 1.5) in very shallow areas on the deep persistent weak layer.
Up to 25cm of low density snow overlies a 60-80 cm snowpack that is entirely faceted, with weak, facet/crust interfaces near the ground. With cooler temps and a shallow snowpack, the snow is continuing to facet.
Tonight: Mainly cloudy. Alpine temperature: Low -8 °C. Ridge wind southeast: 10 km/h.
Saturday: Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries. Precipitation: Trace. Alpine temperature: High -8 °C. Ridge wind west: 20 km/h.
Sunday: Cloudy with sunny periods and isolated flurries. Precipitation: Trace. Alpine temperature: Low -10 °C, High -7 °C. Ridge wind west: 20-30 km/h.
