South Rockies

Avalanches aren’t expected, but firm surfaces and slip and slide potential are making backcountry travel challenging

High

• The number, quality, or consistency of field observations is good, and supports our confidence.

There are no new avalanche observations. Avalanche activity is considered unlikely until the current weather pattern shifts.

A firm surface crust caps the snowpack on south facing slopes, softening slightly each day from direct sunshine. On north facing slopes the crust thins around treeline, with wind affected or faceting dry snow lingering at higher elevations.

A handful of notable layers persist - a layer of surface hoar or a sun crust is buried 40-60 cm deep, and a layer of crust and facets near the base of the snowpack (persisting in shallow areas). These layers are currently not affecting stability at this time.

Tuesday Night
Clear skies. 30 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C.

Wednesday
Mostly sunny. 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -9 °C.

Thursday
Mostly sunny. 20 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C.

Friday
Mostly sunny. 20 km/h northeast ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -19 °C.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• This is a good time for exploring terrain.
• Carefully evaluate steep lines for wind slabs.