Use caution in sheltered areas at treeline and above. A preserved weak layer may remain reactive to human triggering.
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A weak layer of surface hoar/facets or a crust exists 20 to 35 cm down. This layer may be reactive to human-triggering where a slab has developed above it. Watch for signs of instability: whumphing, shooting cracks and recent avalanches.
On Sunday, a few small natural and human-triggered loose dry avalanches were reported in steep northeast facing terrain. See this great MIN for details!
We expect unconsolidated snow will remain reactive to skier traffic on Wednesday in steep terrain. Carefully manage sluffing and minimize exposure to overhead hazards wherever possible.
20 to 35 cm of storm snow blankets the area. Expect to find deeper deposits on north and east slopes in wind-loaded areas. Storm snow has not bonded well to the old snow surfaces, which includes melt-freeze crusts on sun-exposed slopes, large surface hoar or facets on shaded slopes, and wind-affected snow in exposed terrain at ridgelines.
A weak layer of surface hoar of facets is buried, 20 to 35 cm deep. This layer is most likely to be preserved in sheltered areas at treeline.
The lower snowpack is strong and bonded. Treeline snow depths average 150 to 200 cm.
Tuesday Night
Mainly clear. 5 to 15 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -19 °C.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud. 10 to 20 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.
Thursday
Mainly sunny. 5 to 15 km/h variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.
Friday
Mainly sunny. 10 to 15 km/h variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -10 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
