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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow sits above a mix of surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. The new snow seems to have a poor bond to old surfaces and isolated wind slabs likely exist. Surface snow has become moist on most aspects with the warmer temperatures and rising freezing levels. Large sagging cornices threaten slopes and could fail when the sun comes out. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack tests have been producing hard resistant planar shears on the late March crust down 30-50 cm and the upper snowpack has strengthened.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple persistent weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack. The March melt-freeze crust/surface hoar is reported to be down 60 - 100cm. The February crust/facet/surface hoar layer is now deeply buried down 150 - 250cm. These layers are mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of moist surface snow sits on top of 20 cm of dryer snow which fell before the weekend. Isolated wind slabs currently have a poor bond (especially on slopes with a buried crust) over a medley of old snow surfaces including surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat if they fail.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warm temperatures have helped to settle and strengthen the upper snowpack and tests are producing hard resistant planar shears on the late March crust. Below 1800 m a melt-freeze snowpack exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers exist lower in the snowpack. The mid-March surface hoar/ crust interface now down 80 -110 cm. The early-March crust/facet layer is down about 100-150 cm and the early February layer is now down close to 200 cm. These layers are largely dormant at this time; however, they should remain on your radar. Larger triggers like cornice fall may be significant enough to activate these deeper layers.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm has brought 50 cm or more too coastal regions (60-100 mm) forming thick storm slabs. Consistent strong southerly winds have transported the new snow building thick wind slabs on leeward features and cornices have grown large. At lower elevations the snowpack has become saturated with rain adding to the already spring-like isothermal conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 -140 cm. The early February layer is down 150 - 240 cm. These layers have become overloaded in some places initiating some very-large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of new snow fell at upper elevations and up to 40 mm of rain below treeline. The new snow fell onto a variety of old snow surfaces consisting of surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. Strong SW winds have likely built thick wind slabs on leeward aspects and a poor bond currently exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations (Some treeline and below treeline), the snowpack is moist and/ or wet, saturated and weak. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 - 100cm. The early February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is down 150 - 200cm. Recently, these layers have become overloaded with the new load from snow, rain and warmer temperatures. They must remain on your radar. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2500m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbias:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2300m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the North Columbias:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2000m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2400m early this week in the southern Purcells, around 1800m in the north. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper treeline and alpine elevations into wind slabs that are most prevalent immediately lee of ridge crest </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Spring conditions. Isothermal snow below treeline on all aspects and on solar aspects at all elevations. Numerous loose wet and loose slab avalanches up to size 3.0 had occurred by midday. Wind slabs are present in Alpine and Treeline terrain on lee and cross-loaded features. Cornices are sagging.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Areas near Burstall Pass received up to 20cm of storm snow last night. The winds associated with the storm have blown the new snow around at treeline and above. Its expected that there are new windslabs at upper elevations. At valley bottom, the sun and warm temps have already broken the new snow down and formed a dense layer that will freeze overnight to make a new crust. Below the new snow yesterday's warm temps have left a temperature crust up to 2400m on all aspects. Areas further north have had little change in the snowpack since yesterday. The overnight temperatures allowed the surface snow to refreeze and recover some of its strength. The trouble layers are still out there and are reactive when the temps warm up. The Feb 10 is down 110-130cm's on the Spray Road, and down 40-80cm's in the front ranges.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain-soaked snow has been through a number of freeze-thaw cycles and is well bonded and stable. When the temperature drops below zero overnight, n</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">ewly re-frozen surfaces may become icy and pose a danger for people sliding out of control.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very warm temperatures over the past few days and high freezing levels with no crust recovery have resulted in moist or wet snow at all elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Smith Basin area there is 140 cm below treeline and the top 40 cm was found to be moist and well consolidated. The March crust below was decomposing at this location. The February deep persistent weak layer was down 80 cm and well preserved. Higher up at about 2300 metres the height of snow was a little over two metres. The March crust was not intact at this location and did not result in any shears in snow profile tests. The February deep persistent weak layer (DPWL) was down 100 cm and was a well defined layer of softer facetted snow below the hard (pencil) snow of the well settled mid-pack. Hard sudden collapse shears were recorded at the interface of the February DPWL. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Elk Valley South the height of snow at 1900 metres was 430 cm. The snow was dry and loose above 1700-1800 metres and moist below where loose wet slides had released on solar aspects. There was a 2-3 cm supportive crust on Southerly aspects above 1900 metres, and no crust on shaded North aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pronounced warming in the upper snowpack at all elevations has made the top 50 cm or more of the snowpack moist. Subsequent cooler temperatures have resulted in a re-freeze at higher elevations, although solar aspects continue to undergo daily melt-freeze cycles. Several older melt-freeze crusts in the upper 40 cm are breaking down, although deeper crusts are reported to still be hard. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried, but has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very minimal re-freeze over the past two days has resulted in moist or wet surface snow at all elevations. Glide cracks are opening at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creepingdownhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 200cm) seems unlikely to trigger as the forecast freezing levels remain lower than earlier on in the week. However, this weakness should stay on your radar, especially on slopes that are being baked by intense sun, as any activity at this interface would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow sits above a mix of surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. The new snow seems to have a poor bond to old surfaces and isolated wind slabs likely exist. Surface snow has become moist on most aspects with the warmer temperatures and rising freezing levels. Large sagging cornices threaten slopes and could fail when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack tests have been producing hard resistant planar shears on the late March crust down 30-50 cm and the upper snowpack has strengthened.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple persistent weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack. The March melt-freeze crust/surface hoar is reported to be down 60 - 100cm. The February crust/facet/surface hoar layer is now deeply buried down 150 - 250cm. These layers are mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs have formed and are sensitive to rider triggers, especially on slopes with a buried crust. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack tests are producing moderate shears down 15 cm failing on surface hoar below the early April crust and hard resistant planar shears on the late March crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Several persistent weak layers exist lower in the snowpack. The mid-March interface down 80 -110 cm, the early-March layer is down about 100-150 cm and the early February layer is now down close to 200 cm. These layers are largely dormant at this time; however, they should remain on your radar as we begin to transition into a warm-up with minimal overnight refreeze and intense solar output. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm has brought 70 cm or more too coastal regions (60-110 mm) forming thick storm slabs and wind slabs on leeward features. Cornices have grown large. At lower elevations the snowpack has become saturated and weak adding to the already spring-like isothermal conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 -140 cm. The early February layer is down 150 - 240 cm. These layers have become overloaded and are failing in some places initiating very-large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of new snow fell at upper elevations and up to 40 mm of rain below treeline. The new snow fell onto a variety of old snow surfaces consisting of surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. Strong SW winds have likely built thick wind slabs on leeward aspects and a poor bond currently exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations (Some treeline and below treeline), the snowpack is moist and/ or wet, saturated and weak until it cools and forms a crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 - 100cm. The early February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is down 150 - 200cm. Recently, these layers have become overloaded with the new load from snow, rain and warmer temperatures. They must remain on your radar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2500m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia's:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2400m early this week in the southern Purcells, around 1800m in the north. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper treeline and alpine elevations into wind slabs that are most prevalent immediately lee of ridge crest </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2300m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the North Columbias:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level rising to almost 2000m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow at and below treeline, but winter conditions prevail at upper elevations. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have recently distributed dry snow in the alpine into wind slabs that remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-20cm of new snow has fallen at highway elevations, while upwards of 40cm of new snow fell in the Alpine in the White Pass. At lower elevations, this came in the form of moist, heavy snow and now overlies a melt-freeze crust on south, west and east aspects. This crust has been observed to 1400-1500m, particularly on southerly facing slopes. Recent easy to moderate test results indicate the storm slab is reactive sitting over the crust. Strong southwest winds have redeposited storm snow into wind slabs on north through east facing lee terrain features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A well settled slab 50-140cm thick now sits above the Feb 13 crust/facet/surface hoar interface. The layer is currently being tested by the weight of recent storm snow, warm temps and strong winds. In certain areas, this layer may be primed for skier triggering as seen in a recent remotely triggered avalanche and snowpack observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Basal facets and depth hoar exists near the ground. In White Pass, this weakness is largely unreactive. In places with a more shallow snowpack like Powder Valley or the Wheaton Valley this layer may currently be tested by the stress of new snow, warm temps and loading from southwest winds.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pronounced warming in the upper snowpack at all elevations has made the top 50 cm or more of the snowpack moist. Subsequent cooler temperatures have re-frozen the surface at higher elevations, although solar aspects at all elevations continue to undergo daily melt-freeze cycles. Several older melt-freeze crusts in the upper 40 cm are breaking down, although deeper crusts are reported to still be hard. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried, but has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Overnight re-freeze is happening only at higher elevations. Lower down, and at all elevations on solar aspects, the top 50-100 cm of the snowpack is moist or wet. Glide cracks are opening at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creeping downhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 200cm) should stay on your radar, although predicting how it will respond to warming under spring conditions is almost impossible. I would be most concerned during prolonged periods of warm weather combined with intense periods of sunshine, especially if there has been little or no re-freeze the previous night. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain-soaked snow has been through a number of freeze-thaw cycles and is well bonded and stable. When the temperature drops below zero overnight, n</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">ewly re-frozen surfaces may become icy and pose a danger for people sliding out of control. Under warm temperatures or intense sun the snow surface breaks down and becomes soft.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very warm temperatures over the past few days and high freezing levels with no crust recovery have resulted in moist or wet snow at all elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Smith Basin area there is 140 cm below treeline and the top 40 cm was found to be moist and well consolidated. The March crust below was decomposing at this location. The February deep persistent weak layer was down 80 cm and well preserved. Higher up at about 2300 metres the height of snow was a little over two metres. The March crust was not intact at this location and did not result in any shears in snow profile tests. The February deep persistent weak layer (DPWL) was down 100 cm and was a well defined layer of softer facetted snow below the hard (pencil) snow of the well settled mid-pack. Hard sudden collapse shears were recorded at the interface of the February DPWL. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Elk Valley South the height of snow at 1900 metres was 430 cm. The snow was dry and loose above 1700-1800 metres and moist below where loose wet slides had released on solar aspects. There was a 2-3 cm supportive crust on Southerly aspects above 1900 metres, and no crust on shaded North aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow sits above a solid melt freeze crust. The new snow seems to be bonding with help from the warmer temperatures; however, isolated wind slabs likely exist. Surface snow has become moist, especially on southerly aspects forming melt-freeze conditions and surface hoar growth (4 mm) has been noted on shady slopes at higher elevations. Large sagging cornices threaten slopes from above and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack tests have been producing hard resistant planar shears on the late March layer and the upper snowpack has strengthened.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple persistent weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack. The March layer is down 60 - 100cm and the February layer is now deeply buried down 150 – 250 cm. These layers are mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2500m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia's:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seams to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2400m early this week in the southern Purcells, around 1800m in the north. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper treeline and alpine elevations into wind slabs that are most prevalent immediately lee of ridge crest </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs have formed and are sensitive to rider triggers, especially on slopes with a buried crust. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack tests are producing moderate shears down 15 cm failing on surface hoar below the early April crust and hard resistant planar shears on the late March crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Several persistent weak layers exist lower in the snowpack. The mid-March interface down 80 -110 cm, the early-March layer is down about 100-150 cm and the early February layer is now down close to 200 cm. These layers are largely dormant at this time; however, they should remain on your radar as we transition into a warm-up with minimal overnight refreeze and intense solar output.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15 - 20 cm of new snow fell on Tuesday night.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level rising to almost 2000m Sunday/Monday. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow at and below treeline, but winter conditions prevail at upper elevations. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have recently distributed dry snow in the alpine into wind slabs that remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2300m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong to extreme winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs that remain problematic in the alpine, and are most pronounced immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the North Columbias:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up 30 cm of new snow fell at upper elevations and up to 40 mm of rain. A strong rain crust exists up to 2000 m on all aspects. At higher elevations the new snow fell onto a variety of old snow surfaces consisting of surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. Strong SW winds have built thick wind slabs on leeward aspects and a poor bond may exist, especially on a buried crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations (1200 m and below), surface snow is moist and/ or wet, creating melt-freeze conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 - 100cm. The early February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is down 150 - 200cm. Recently, these layers have become overloaded with the new load from snow, rain and wind. They must remain on your radar, and could become reactive with Sunday's solar radiation and super high freezing levels.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm has brought 90+ cm or more too coastal regions (80-120 mm) forming thick storm slabs and wind slabs on leeward features. At lower elevations the snowpack has become moist, wet and saturated from rain. Large cornices have formed and loom over slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Several persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 -140 cm. The early February layer is down 150 - 240 cm. These layers have become overloaded and are failing in some places initiating very-large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cool alpine temps have kept the snow cold and dry today. The winds have also kept up their pace, blowing the snow from west to east. Windslabs in the alpine are inevitable given the recent wind pattern. East and South East are the areas to find them. Treeline winds have been considerably less powerful. Any solar aspect at treeline and below will have felt the heat by now. Today saw no solar avalanche activity, so the heat only had a stabilizing effect on the snow. Valley bottom highs of 5 degrees have left crusts up to treeline on south aspects. The winds kept it cool enough to avoid any new temperature crusts.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very little change over the past few days.  A few cm of snow is falling with convective flurries but not enough to make a difference in terms of ski quality.  Melt freeze crusts can be found on all aspects up to 2200m and on all aspects except true polar up to 3000m.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up 30 cm of new snow fell at upper elevations and up to 40 mm of rain. A strong rain crust exists up to 2000 m on all aspects. At higher elevations the new snow fell onto a variety of old snow surfaces consisting of surface hoar, facets and melt freeze crusts. Strong SW winds have built thick wind slabs on leeward aspects and a poor bond may exist, especially on a buried crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations (1200 m and below), surface snow is moist and/ or wet, creating melt-freeze conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 - 100cm. The early February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is down 150 - 200cm. Recently, these layers have become overloaded with the new load from snow, rain and wind. They should remain on your radar, and could become reactive with solar radiation and high freezing levels.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs have formed and are sensitive to rider triggers, especially on slopes with a buried crust. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February facet/crust layer is now down close to 200 cm. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar as we transition into a warm-up with minimal overnight refreeze and intense solar output.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of recent snow sits above a solid melt freeze crust. The new snow seems to be bonding with help from the warmer temperatures; however, isolated wind slabs may still exist. Surface snow is seeing daily a melt-freeze cycle on all aspects below 2000m, and to mountain top on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar growth has been noted on shady slopes at higher elevations, and large sagging cornices are becoming weak with daytime warming.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple persistent weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March crust layer is down 60 - 100cm and the February crust/facet layer is now deeply buried down 150 250 cm. These layers are mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm has brought 90+ cm or more too coastal regions (80-120 mm) forming thick storm slabs and wind slabs on leeward features. Warmer temperatures have helped to settle the recent snow. At lower elevations the snowpack has become moist, wet and saturated from rain. Large cornices have formed and loom over slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Several persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 -140 cm. The early February layer is down 150 - 240 cm. These layers have become overloaded and are failing in some places initiating very-large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15 - 25cm of snow has fallen over the past 2 days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level rising to almost 2000m Sunday/Monday. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow at and below treeline, but winter conditions prevail at upper elevations. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have recently distributed dry snow in the alpine into wind slabs that remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2300m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong to extreme winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs that remain problematic in the alpine, and are most pronounced immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the North Columbias:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2500m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia's:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seams to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2400m early this week in the southern Purcells, around 1800m in the north. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper treeline and alpine elevations into wind slabs that are most prevalent immediately lee of ridge crest </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecasted trace to light precipitation should fall over a melt-freeze crust in the alpine or on a moist surface at lower elevations. Pronounced warming in the upper snowpack at all elevations has made the top 50 cm or more of the snowpack moist. Subsequent cooler temperatures have re-frozen the surface at higher elevations, although solar aspects at all elevations continue to undergo daily melt-freeze cycles. Several older melt-freeze crusts in the upper 40 cm are breaking down, although deeper crusts are reported to still be hard. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried, but has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecasted light precipitation should fall over a melt-freeze crust in the alpine or on a moist surface at lower elevations.  Last night's re-freeze and today's above freezing levels up to ~1900 m. has created a moist surface up to that elevations on all aspects. Another similar melt-freeze cycle is expected overnight and tomorrow, most likely creating soft spring conditions up to ~1500 m on all aspects and solar aspect at higher elevations if the sun comes out. Snow stability is expected to decrease as the day progresses tomorrow, increasing the chance of cornice fall and wet loose avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 80-100 cm) should stay on your radar, especially on south facing slopes when the sun will be shining. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-40cm of storm snow (upwards of 50cm in deeper snowpack areas) has fallen in the White Pass within the last week. The snow overlies a recent melt-freeze/sun crust at lower elevations. In most locations, the new snow is bonding well to this crust, however we have observed isolated results that indicate this layer is reactive where facets exist above or below the crust. Recent moderate North winds have created fresh wind slabs on lee south facing terrain features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A well settled slab (avg. 80cm thick) now sits above the Feb 13 crust/facet/surface hoar interface. This layer, although becoming harder to trigger continues to produce hard results to stability tests and shows signs of propagation. This layer is suspected to be the culprit in a remotely triggered avalanche on March 9th on the East side of the highway. The weight of a surface avalanche, a cornice failure or a rider in a thin snowpack area may be enough to trigger this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Basal facets do still exists near the ground. In White Pass, this weakness is largely unreactive. In places with a more shallow snowpack like Powder Valley or the Wheaton Valley this layer could still be a concern. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecasted light precipitation (5-10 cm) should fall over a melt-freeze crust in the alpine or on a moist surface at lower elevations.  Last night's re-freeze and today's above freezing levels up to ~1700 m. has locked the snowpack in place above that elevation and created a moist surface at lower elevations on all aspects. Another similar melt-freeze cycle is expected overnight and tomorrow, most likely creating soft spring conditions up to ~1500 m on all aspects and solar aspect at higher elevations if the sun comes out. Snow stability is expected to decrease as the day progresses tomorrow, increasing the chance of cornice fall and wet loose avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Glide cracks are opening at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creeping downhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 200cm) should stay on your radar, especially on south facing slopes when the sun will be shining. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The rain-soaked snow has been through a number of freeze-thaw cycles and is well bonded and stable. When the temperature drops below zero overnight, newly re-frozen surfaces may become icy and pose a danger for people sliding out of control. Under the forecasted warm temperatures and intense sun for the incoming period, the laminated crusts will break down, becoming soft and creating the increasing possibility of loose wet avalanches as the day progresses</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 15cm of snow fell last night as the cold front moved in. Today's temperatures were cool enough to keep this snow cold an dry. The only exception is low south aspects, these were softening by 1200hrs. The temperature/sun crust that has been building over the last while is widespread below treeline and stretches into the high treeline right now. Today on Tent Ridge we found a hint of the crust at 2300m. A profile at 2350m had a snowpack depth of 145cm with dense snow (1finger) for the top 100cm's. Below this, the snow character immediately turned to a loose mix of depth hoar and facets. We measured a moderate compression test, sudden collapse on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs may still exist, although I suspect they're gaining strength. Surface hoar growth has been noted on shady slopes at higher elevations, and large sagging cornices are becoming weak with daytime warming.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February crust/facet layer is now deeply buried 150 250 cm below the surface. This layer is mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs exist, although they are likely settling and gaining strength. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February facet/crust layer is now down close to 200 cm. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar as we transition into a warm-up with minimal overnight refreeze and intense solar output.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of recent storm snow fell at upper elevations. At lower elevations rain saturated the snowpack and melt-freeze conditions exist up to 1200 m on all aspects. At higher elevations the new snow overlies a rain crust which exists to about 2000m. Strong SW winds have built thick wind slabs on leeward aspects and a poor bond may exist, especially where the buried crust exists. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two persistent weak interfaces exist deeper in the snowpack. The early March layer can be found down 75 - 100cm. The early February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is down 150 - 200cm. Particularly in deeper snowpack areas, these layers may have become overloaded by the recent storm. They should remain on your radar, and could become reactive with solar radiation and high freezing levels.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent storm has brought 90+ cm or more to coastal regions forming thick storm slabs on leeward features. Warmer temperatures have helped to settle the recent snow, although the storm snow may continue to be touchy where it overlies surface hoar, crusts and/or facets buried on April 2nd. At lower elevations the snowpack has been saturated by rain and may exist as wet snow or a refrozen crust. Large cornices have formed and loom over slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 240 cm. This layer has become overloaded by recent storm loading and is failing in some places resulting in very-large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">~15 cm of new snow fell throughout the day in the some areas of the region. This new snow was transported by light to moderate Northerly winds most likely creating touchy windslabs on lee alpine slopes. The new snow is sitting on a crust above 1400 m or a moist surface below this elevation. Snow stability is expected to decrease as the day progresses tomorrow, weakening the fresh windslabs and cornices. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 80-100 cm) should stay on your radar, especially on all alpine slopes that will see the intense sun tomorrow. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50cm of recent storm snow accumulations from the past few days in the alpine have been redistributed by moderate west and southwest winds creating wind slabs in alpine lee features. This new snow sits on a crust formed by warm temperatures resulting from the freezing level reaching to almost 2200m early last week. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40cm of recent storm snow accumulations in the alpine have been redistributed by moderate west and southwest winds creating wind slabs in alpine lee features. This new snow sits on a crust formed by warm temperatures resulting from the freezing level reaching to almost 2300m early last week. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the North Columbias:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> Snow stability is expected to decrease as the day progresses tomorrow with the forecasted intense warming and solar radiation. This will in turn increase the chance of cornice fall and wet loose avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/encyclopedia/glide.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Glide cracks</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> are continuing to open at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creeping downhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 200cm) should stay on your radar, especially on all alpine slopes that will see the intense sun tomorrow. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2500m early this week. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia region:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seams to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures resulted in the freezing level reaching to almost 2400m early this week in the southern Purcells, around 1800m in the north. This has helped to settle out last weeks storm snow, it's reported to be bonding well to the old surface. Strong winds out of both the SW and NW have redistributed the dry snow still exists at upper treeline and alpine elevations into wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack has been through a number of melt-freeze cycles and is well bonded and stable. When the temperature drops below zero overnight, newly re-frozen surfaces may become icy and pose a danger for people sliding out of control. Under the forecasted warm temperatures and intense sun for the incoming period, the laminated crusts will break down, becoming soft and creating the increasing possibility of loose wet avalanches as the day progresses. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Be cautious on bigger features with smooth ground roughness since </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsavalanche.org%2Fencyclopedia%2Fglide.htm&amp;sa=D&amp;sntz=1&amp;usg=AFQjCNH0NrqfZcqHJ17Y08UuyqHgQG2fXg" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">glide cracks</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> have started to open as the whole seasons snowpack is creeping downhill with the warm temperatures. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Melt-freeze cycles (below 0 Celsius overnight and warm temperatures/solar radiation during the day) has created a hard crust at the surface in most places. During the day, this crust is broken up by warm temperatures and solar radiation on all aspects up to around 2000 m and above this elevation on solar aspects. Snow stability will decrease as the day progresses, increasing the chance of cornice fall and wet loose avalanches. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried, and has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now. However, tomorrow's intense warming and solar radiation could wake up the deep weak layer in isolated areas, like on higher alpine slopes that have not gone through as many melt-freeze cycles. I suspect this would be more the case in the Northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Dry powder snow can still be found on north aspects but below 2200m, expect to be skiing on top of a supportive crust.  On all other aspects, expect to encounter a surface crust right up to the peaks.  Some lower angle slopes that arent pure north look to be giving good skiing also eg, Sparrowhawk.  The basal facets are still a concern as is demonstrated here in this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeQMlcQfFuI&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">video</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack. Isolated wind slabs exist, although they are likely settling and gaining strength. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February facet/crust layer is now down close to 200 cm. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar as we transition into a warm-up with minimal overnight refreeze and intense solar output.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs may still exist, although I suspect they're gaining strength. Surface hoar growth has been noted on shady slopes at higher elevations, and large sagging cornices are becoming weak with daytime warming.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February crust/facet layer is now deeply buried 150 250 cm below the surface. This layer is mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 90+ cm or more to coastal regions forming thick storm slabs on leeward features. Warmer temperatures have helped to settle the recent snow, although the storm snow may continue to be touchy where it overlies surface hoar, crusts and/or facets buried at the beginning of April. Sun exposed slopes and lower elevation terrain is seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle and slopes below treeline are likely isothermal. Large cornices have formed and loom over slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 240 cm. The weight of the recent storm snow and more recent warming have resulted in very-large avalanches at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2300m has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out last week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia region:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seams to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Yesterdays light accumulation (~15 cm) is sitting on a crust in most places. Todays above freezing temperatures up to ~2000 m and intense solar radiation would have contributed to the creation of another melt-freeze crust on all aspects below this elevation and higher up on solar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow stability is expected to decrease as the day progresses tomorrow, weakening the fresh windslabs and cornices in the alpine. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 80-100 cm) should stay on your radar, especially on all alpine slopes that will see the intense sun tomorrow. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2300m has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out last week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2100m has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out last week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has gone dormant for the time being. The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches. The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2100m has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out the past week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow stability is expected to decrease as the day progresses tomorrow with the forecasted intense warming and solar radiation. This will in turn increase the chance of cornice fall and wet loose avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/encyclopedia/glide.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Glide cracks</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> are continuing to open at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creeping downhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down ~ 200cm) should stay on your radar, especially on all alpine slopes that will see the intense sun tomorrow. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week up to 30 cm of snow fell at upper elevations. At lower elevations rain saturated the snowpack and melt-freeze conditions exist up to 1200 m on all aspects. At higher elevations the new snow overlies a rain crust which exists to about 2000m. Strong SW winds have built thick wind slabs on leeward aspects and recent test results indicate touchy conditions still exist. Cornices are also large and becoming weak with daytime warming.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 200 cm. This destructive layer should remain on your radar, and could become reactive with solar radiation and high freezing levels.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Melt-freeze cycles has created a hard crust at the surface in most places. During the day, this crust is broken down by warm temperatures and solar radiation on all aspects up to around 2200 m and above this elevation on solar aspects. Snow stability will decrease quite rapidly as the day progresses tomorrow, increasing the chance of cornice fall and wet loose avalanches. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried, and has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now. However, tomorrow's intense warming and solar radiation could wake up the deep weak layer in isolated areas, like on higher alpine slopes that have not gone through such a heat shock. I suspect this would be more the case in the Northern part of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack has been through a number of freeze-thaw cycles and is well bonded and stable. When the temperature drops below zero overnight, newly re-frozen surfaces may become icy and pose a danger for people sliding out of control. Under the forecasted warm temperatures and intense sun for the incoming period, the laminated crusts will break down, becoming soft and creating the increasing possibility of loose wet avalanches as the day progresses. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Be cautious on bigger features with smooth ground roughness since </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/encyclopedia/glide.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">glide cracks</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> have started to open as the whole seasons snowpack is creeping downhill with the warm temperatures. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack has been through a number of freeze-thaw cycles and is generally well bonded and stable. The main concern is for loose wet slides in steep open terrain when temperatures are warm or it is raining. Much of the low elevation snowpack (below around 1000 m) has mostly melted away. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Melt-freeze cycles have created a hard and thick crust at the surface in most places, which has been breaking down on all aspects up to around 2000 m and above this elevation on solar aspects. Glide cracks are continuing to open at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creeping downhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down ~ 200cm) should stay on your radar, especially on steep alpine slopes with variable snow cover. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. Cornices are large in some areas and should be given a wide berth. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures and strong sunshine likely created a solid melt-freeze crust on the surface in most places. High shady slopes may still have 10-15 cm of dry snow sitting on a previous crust. The surface crust will likely break down during the day resulting in moist or wet surface snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 80-100 cm) should stay on your radar, especially on all alpine slopes that will see the intense sun tomorrow. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. Also, give cornices a wide berth when traveling on or below corniced ridges. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Melt-freeze cycles have created a hard and thick crust at the surface in most places, which has been breaking down on all aspects up to around 2000 m and above this elevation on solar aspects. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried and has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now. Cornices are large in some areas and should be given a wide berth. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2100m has created moist snow and/or a supportive crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out the past week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2300m has created moist snow and/or a supportive crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out last week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboos:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2300m for the past few days has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out last week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and southwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia region:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seams to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2100m the past few days has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. This has helped to settle out last week's storm snow accumulations. Moderate west and northwest winds have redistributed what little dry snow still exists at upper elevations into wind slabs immediately lee of ridge crest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has gone dormant for the time being. The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches. The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs may still exist, although I suspect they're gaining strength. Surface hoar growth has been noted on shady slopes at higher elevations, and large sagging cornices are becoming weak with daytime warming.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February crust/facet layer is now deeply buried 150 250 cm below the surface. This layer is mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures over the weekend have allowed recent storm accumulations to settle and gain strength. The settled storm snow overlies a melt-freeze crust at lower elevations. In most locations, the snow is bonding well to this crust; however, we have observed isolated tests that indicate this layer is reactive where facets exist above or below the crust. Sun-exposed slopes have now seen a few daily melt-freeze cycles.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On average, about 80cm of settled snow overlies the crust/facet/surface hoar interface buried in mid-February. Although this layer is generally becoming harder to trigger, whumpfing, snowpack tests and intermittent avalanche activity continue to prove this layer deserves respect.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Basal facets exist near the ground and seem to be more of a concern in the Powder Valley/ Wheaton Valley areas where the snowpack is shallow. That said, as the snowpack warms-up (especially with minimal overnight refreezes) basal instabilities may &quot;wake-up&quot; in many areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2200 m and to mountain top on previously sun-exposed slopes. Dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep and destructive early February facet/crust layer is now close to 200 cm below the surface. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar, especially when freezing levels are high and the sun is shining.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 90+ cm or more to coastal regions forming thick storm slabs on leeward features. Warmer temperatures have helped to settle the recent snow, although the storm snow may continue to be touchy where it overlies surface hoar, crusts and/or facets buried at the beginning of April. Sun exposed slopes and lower elevation terrain has seen a daily melt-freeze cycle, and many slopes below treeline are likely isothermal. Large cornices have formed and loom over slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 240 cm. Triggering this destructive layer will become unlikely with forecast cooling.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">North facing alpine and upper treeline terrain is still likely seeing wintery conditions. Weather data suggests melt-freeze conditions exist in most other areas. Recent strong SW winds have built thick hard wind slabs on leeward aspects which overlie a crust, and recent test results indicate touchy conditions still exist. Cornices are also large and potentially weak.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 200 cm. This destructive layer should become less likely to trigger with forecast cooling.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Spring time conditions dominate the snowpack with thick crusts on all aspects below 2200m and on solar aspects to mountain top. Sheltered North aspects at high elevations hold dry snow. The Feb 10th persistent weak layer and the basal facets could awaken during times of intense solar radiation and/or daytime heating.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Spring has arrived on the North Shore. Sunshine, warm temperatures, and periods of rain are the primary factors influencing the avalanche danger at this time of year. If the temperatures go below freezing overnight, a strong surface crust should form and should hold the snowpack together. If the sun shines for a few hours the crusts will break down quickly and moist or wet loose snow avalanches may start running naturally. Prolonged warming may trigger wet slides with a substantial mass in certain areas. It is important to monitor the temperature and the freezing levels carefully. At this time of year it's best to travel through avalanche terrain early before conditions warm up. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is always potential for spring snowfalls. Be sure to make keen local observations. If more than 20 cm of snow accumulates (especially if it sits on a hard crusty surface), then expect avalanche danger to be higher and adjust your trip plan accordingly. Always watch for deeper deposits on the leeward side of ridges. These are areas where triggering a fresh slab avalanche is more likely. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Melt-freeze cycles have created a hard and thick crust at the surface in most places, which has been breaking down on all aspects up to around 2000 m and above this elevation on solar aspects. Glide cracks are continuing to open at lower elevations where the whole season's snowpack is creeping downhill. The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down ~ 200cm) should stay on your radar, especially on steep alpine slopes with variable snow cover. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. Cornices are large and sagging in some areas and should be given a wide berth. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2000 m and to mountain top on previously sun-exposed slopes. Dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settle the upper snowpack. Large sagging cornices are looming over slopes and pose a threat, especially when the sun comes out.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep and destructive early February facet/crust layer is now close to 200 cm below the surface. This layer is largely dormant at this time; however, it should remain on your radar, especially when freezing levels are high and the sun is shining.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures and strong sunshine likely created a solid melt-freeze crust on the surface in most places. High shady slopes may still have 10-15 cm of dry snow sitting on a previous crust. The surface crust will likely break down during the day resulting in moist or wet surface snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The deep facet/crust persistent weakness buried at the beginning of February (now down up to 80-100 cm) should stay on your radar, especially on all alpine slopes that will see the intense sun tomorrow. Any activity at this interface would be large and destructive. Also, give large sagging cornices a wide berth when traveling on or below corniced ridges. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Melt-freeze cycles have created a hard and thick crust at the surface in most places, which has been breaking down on all aspects up to around 2000 m and above this elevation on solar aspects. The late January/early February persistent weak layer is deeply buried and has not produced avalanches in this region for some time now. Cornices are large in some areas and should be given a wide berth. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2300m over the weekend has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. A melt-freeze crust buried at the beginning of April can be found 40-50cm below the snow surface. This layer has been variably reactive in snowpack tests. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the South Columbia region:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seams to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming could wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2300m over the weekend has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Cariboo region:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has potential for human-triggering in isolated areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2100m over the weekend has created moist snow and/or a crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. A melt-freeze crust buried at the beginning of April can be found 40-50cm below the snow surface. This layer has been variably reactive in snowpack tests. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the North Columbia region:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm still has gone dormant for the time being. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 150 - 200cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mainly sunny weather and the freezing level reaching up to 2100m has created moist snow and/or a supportive crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north-facing terrain. Three persistent weak layers exist in the highly variable snowpack of the Purcells:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-March sun crust/surface hoar layer down 50-80cm seems to be laying dormant for the time being. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The early-March crust/facet/surface hoar layer down around 80-120cm has become less susceptible to human triggering, but still has the capacity to produce large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-The mid-February crust/facet/surface hoar combo is typically down 60 - 120cm. Direct triggering of this layer has become unlikely, however, cornice fall, a smaller avalanche in motion or prolonged warming may wake this layer up, which would result in very large and destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">-Weak basal facets exist in many areas, but triggering is unlikely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation is forecasted to fall on the Southern part of the region on a snow surface that consists of a melt-freeze crust in most areas, isolated windslabs or dry powdery snow in wind sheltered areas in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the Northern part of the region, a melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects up to 2000 m, and dryer snow can be found on high northerly aspects. The recent warmer temperatures have helped to strengthen and settled the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Isolated wind slabs may still exist, although they are most likely gaining strength. Surface hoar growth has been noted on shady slopes at higher elevations, and large sagging cornices are becoming weak with daytime warming.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The February crust/facet layer is now deeply buried 150-250 cm below the surface. This layer is mostly inactive at this time, but could re-awaken with extended warming, solar influence and large triggers like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecasted light to moderate accumulations mostly over the Southern part of the region should fall over a surface crust on solar aspects up to around 1400 m or onto last week's storm snow which brought 90+ cm or more to the coastal region.  This storm layer is expected to bond poorly to the underlying surfaces and to form touchy windslabs in the alpine lee of the forecasted moderate South East winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warmer temperatures have helped to settle the underlying snowpack. Although, it has been reported to be reactive to skier traffic on steeper/shallower slopes since it is where it is sitting on a surface hoar, crusts and/or facets buried at the beginning of April. Large cornices have formed and loom over slopes below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 240 cm. An avalanche could step down to this destructive layer from a cornice fall or&nbsp; from a storm slab being triggered. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation amounts may fall on the South Eastern corner of the region on a snow surface that consists of a melt-freeze crust in most areas, hard windslabs lee of recent strong South West winds or dry powdery snow in wind sheltered areas in the alpine and treeline. Snowpack test results from last Saturday indicated touchy conditions in the alpine where the windslabs had formed. Cornices are also large and potentially weak.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The early February crust/facet layer is down 150 - 200 cm. This destructive layer should become less likely to trigger with forecast cooling.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are few actual observations from the region to start the season. This is based mostly off weather station data and the weather forecast. Most areas experienced heavy rain last week up to 2000 m, or even higher. Higher elevations may have continued to see wet snow accumulate, and possibly a lot of it. Rapid cooling early on Friday has probably left a new rain crust near the surface, but in some areas it's already buried by 10-15 cm of light snow. A weak layer of facetted snow on a crust may be lurking deeper in the snowpack. However, it's possible this weakness was 'flushed' out with the recent heavy precipitation. There's limited recent info on this weakness so I recommend digging to confirm the existence of the layer, its depth, and to test its strength. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 100cm of recent storm snow sits on weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Snowpack data from the Cariboo region is very limited at the moment, but I expect these layers are reacting similarly to the North Selkirk/Monashees because the formation conditions were generally the same. Snowpack tests on Sunday in Rogers Pass suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong and variable winds may have redistributed surface snow creating dense wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong and variable winds may have redistributed surface snow creating new wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain. Recent rain and cooling have created a near-surface crust that extends to about 1900m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 100cm below the surface you'll likely find weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Snowpack tests on Sunday in Rogers Pass suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Around Kootenay Pass, rain moistened the snowpack to perhaps about 2000m on Thursday. It's expected that the snowpack in this region has now strengthened considerably. This region received 15 cm of storm snow on Friday night, which may have created pockets of wind slab or storm slab at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Above about 2000m and in the north of the region, I have the most avalanche concerns. It's these areas which may be harboring a weak layer (formed during November's dry spell), now buried with this week's accumulated snow. We have very limited field information. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. Please email us at forecaster@avalanche.ca.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with very limited field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. Please email us at </span><a href="mailto:forecaster@avalanche.ca" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></a><span class="s_17AE1194">.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Half a metre or so of recent snow is likely to have been redistributed by wind into fresh slabs on lee slopes. Natural avalanches may continue spilling down steep headwalls for a day or two. A weak layer (of facets over a crust) which formed during November's dry spell is now buried a metre or more down. Avalanches failing on this layer have the potential to propagate widely, leading to very large events.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack continues to settle. Wind prone areas at treeline and above have experienced extensive wind effect and significant wind slab development, and this condition will likely continue overnight Monday and into Tuesday. The November rain crust remains prominent at the base of the snowpack and is a layer of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Watch for icy conditions. Recent storms dropped a lot of water on the hills, which may now be frozen solid. Sadly there's not much snow left on the ground. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A report from the Ashman area describes a snow depth of 60 cm at 1100 metres elevation and 100 cm snow depth at 1500 metres elevation; 20-30 cm of facetted snow above a crust at treeline and 30 cm above the crust in the alpine in areas protected from the wind. Extensive wind effect has developed pockets of wind slab in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. Reports of whumphing and remote triggering on these layers suggests a persistent weakness with the potential for large propagation and large avalanches. Recent strong and variable winds have likely created dense wind slabs in exposed terrain and resulted in variable snow distribution in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Thursday, high elevation rain produced a new crust. In the Golden area this rain crust exists up to around 1600m whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. As temperatures dropped, 10-20cm of new snow fell on top of this new crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with very limited field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. Please email us at </span><a href="mailto:forecaster@avalanche.ca" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></a><span class="s_17AE1194">.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30cm or so of new snow is likely to have been redistributed by very strong SW winds into wind slabs on lee slopes. Because of the strength of the winds, these may be found further down the slope than usual. Rain soaked the snowpack in the Lizard Range to at least 2200m this week before the snow arrived. This likely helped destroy some of the previously troublesome layering. Above about 2200m and further afield, information is limited. Old storm slabs may be lurking at the highest elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A snow profile from 1900m in the fernie area on Monday produced a few easily triggered shears.  The first was down 30 cm in old storm snow, the second was a sudden planar shear down 100 cm failing in facets/depth hoar created earlier this fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3D888173"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar and near surface facets are reported to be growing during the cold and clear weather. Strong Northeast outflow winds developed windslabs 10-40 cm deep since Friday, and then strong and variable winds have since loaded and reverse loaded the light dry snow that came at the end of the storm. Below this new snow is a solid weight bearing crust in all but the highest alpine slopes. There is a chance that a consolidated slab exists in some areas in the alpine above a deeply buried crust from earlier in November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the North of the region (north of Stewart) we have reports of 40 cm of heavily wind affected snow sitting on a laminated crust of ice lenses and facets. Snow profile tests are giving easy results in the facets beneath this crust. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the Sleeping Beauty area near Terrace we have a report of 20 cm of facetted snow above a crust with pockets of that light dry snow blown into windslabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong and variable winds may have redistributed surface snow creating new wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain. Recent rain and cooling have created a near-surface crust that extends to about 1900m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 100cm below the surface you'll likely find weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Snowpack tests on Sunday in Rogers Pass suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We have not had much information from this region to start the forecasting season. There was a big rain event at the end of the last storm just before the arctic air moved in and froze everything solid. We don't think that there is any terrain high enough in the region that it would have been spared the rain and subsequent surface crust. There has been a few cm of new light snow on top of this hard surface crust that may have been transported into windslabs from variable changing winds. Deeper down in the snowpack there is a crust from a rain event that happened around November 9th that was also followed by a period of cool and clear weather. There's limited recent info on this weakness so I recommend digging to confirm the existence of the layer, its depth, and to test its strength. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 100cm of recent storm snow sits on weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Snowpack data from the Cariboo region is very limited at the moment, but I expect these layers are reacting similarly to the North Selkirk/Monashees because the formation conditions were generally the same. Recent snowpack tests suggest these layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent variable winds may have redistributed surface snow creating dense wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of low density snow overlies a variety of surfaces which may include wind slabs at higher elevations and a hard rain crust that extends to about 1900m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 100cm below the surface you'll likely find weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Recent snowpack tests suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">This forecast is based off a very small data set. Here's the best information I can offer:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The snowpack north of Nelson is a different beast than the rest of the forecast region. If you're recreating north of Nelson, the South Columbia forecast does a better job of describing the more complex snowpack and the associated Persistent Slab Problem. In the north it appears that two buried weak layers may be problematic: The mid November surface hoar/facet/crust combo down 70 - 90 cm and the weak sugary snow (large facets) near the ground.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">In the southern portion of the region reports indicate that a weakness is not present near the ground. The Black Friday rain to cold snow storm left 10 - 25 cm of snow on top of a supportive 20 cm thick crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with almost no field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">40 - 60 cm of recent storm snow has liklley been redistributed by wind into slabs that are probably susceptible to human triggering. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A weak layer (of facets over a crust) which formed during November's dry spell is now buried a metre or more down. Avalanches failing on this layer have the potential to propagate widely, leading to very large events.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Observed a large portion of the area today on monthly snow study flight. Lots of wind transport at Alpine and Treeline elevations due to moderate to strong winds out of the West. Wind slabs are prominent in all lee and cross-loaded terrain at higher elevations. Whumpfing was widespread in areas traveled today. Total snowpack depth varied from 70 to 120cm deep. Previous storm snow has now settled to an average of 65cm at 2200m. The November rain crust remains prominent about 20 to 30cm off the ground, and there is a layer of facets above the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Watch for icy conditions. Last weeks storm dropped a lot of water on the hills, which may now be frozen solid. Sadly there's not much snow left on the ground. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A report from the Ashman area describes a snow depth of 60 cm at 1100 metres elevation and 100 cm snow depth at 1500 metres elevation; 20-30 cm of facetted snow above a crust at treeline and 30 cm above the crust in the alpine in areas protected from the wind. Extensive wind effect has developed pockets of wind slab in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Remote wind data suggests 10-20cm of recently fallen snow may have been pushed into wind slabs in exposed terrain. Below this you'll likely find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. Reports of whumphing and remote triggering on these layers suggests a persistent weakness with the potential for large propagation and large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with very limited field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. Please email us at </span><a href="mailto:forecaster@avalanche.ca" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></a><span class="s_17AE1194">.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30cm or so of new snow is likely to have been redistributed by very strong SW winds into wind slabs on lee slopes. Because of the strength of the winds, these may be found further down the slope than usual. Rain soaked the snowpack in the Lizard Range to at least 2200m this week before the snow arrived. This likely helped destroy some of the previously troublesome layering. Above about 2200m and further afield, information is limited. Old storm slabs may be lurking at the highest elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A snow profile from 1900m in the fernie area on Monday produced a few easily triggered shears. The first was down 30 cm in old storm snow, the second was a sudden planar shear down 100 cm failing in facets/depth hoar created earlier this fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3D888173"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar and near surface facets are reported to be growing during the cold and clear weather. Strong Northeast outflow winds developed windslabs 10-40 cm deep since Friday, and then strong and variable winds have since loaded and reverse loaded the light dry snow that came at the end of the storm. Below this new snow is a solid weight bearing crust in all but the highest alpine slopes. There is a chance that a consolidated slab exists in some areas in the alpine above a deeply buried crust from earlier in November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the North of the region (north of Stewart) we have reports of 40 cm of heavily wind affected snow sitting on a laminated crust of ice lenses and facets. Snow profile tests are giving easy results in the facets beneath this crust. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the Sleeping Beauty area near Terrace we have a report of 20 cm of facetted snow above a crust with pockets of that light dry snow blown into windslabs. Report from Shames describes some &quot;minor cracking at ski tips down about 50 cm on a crust&quot; that did not propagate any fractures. There was also a description of loose facets above a near surface crust on an up-track that sounds like a layer that could become a weak interface after the next loading cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of low density snow overlies a variety of surfaces which may include wind slabs at higher elevations and a hard rain crust that extends to about 1900m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 100cm below the surface you'll likely find weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Recent snowpack tests suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Most areas experienced heavy rain last week up to 2000 m, or even higher. Higher elevations may have continued to see wet snow accumulate, and possibly a lot of it. Rapid cooling early on Friday probably left a solid rain crust near the surface, but in some areas it's already buried by 10-15 cm of light snow. Outflow winds (from the north or east) have likely created thin wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. A weak layer of facetted snow on a crust may be lurking deeper in the snowpack. However, it's possible this weakness was 'flushed' out with the recent heavy precipitation. There's limited recent info on this weakness so I recommend digging to confirm the existence of the layer, its depth, and to test its strength. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Approximately 100cm of recent storm snow sits on weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Snowpack data from the Cariboo region is very limited at the moment, but I expect these layers are reacting similarly to the North Selkirk/Monashees because the formation conditions were generally the same. Recent snowpack tests suggest these layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. Recent variable winds may have redistributed surface snow creating dense wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Fluffy low density snow overlies a variety of surfaces which may include wind slabs at higher elevations and a hard rain crust that extends to about 1900m. Approximately 100cm below the surface you'll likely find weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Recent &quot;pops and drops&quot; snowpack test results suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with almost no field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Last weekends 30 - 60cm of storm snow buried a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed during November's dry spell. That interface is probably around a meter down now. Not much us known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">This forecast isn't going to get much better until we get some field observations. If you've got some, please send them in. Eventually you'll be able to use the Mountain Information Network, but for now please email your obs to: forecaster@avalanche.ca THANKS!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Winds increased over the past few days making skiing in most open wind affected areas less than perfect.  Storm snow sheers have tightened up but there is still the problem associated with the Nov 24th facets (down 50-60cm) and the Nov 6th rain crust down 70-90cm.  Both of these layers are continuing to produce sheers in the easy to moderate range. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Watch for icy conditions. Last weeks storms dropped a lot of water on the hills, which may now be frozen solid. Sadly there's not much snow left on the ground. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A report from the Ashman area describes a snow depth of 60 cm at 1100 metres elevation and 100 cm snow depth at 1500 metres elevation; 20-30 cm of facetted snow above a crust at treeline and 30 cm above the crust in the alpine in areas protected from the wind. Extensive wind effect has developed pockets of wind slab in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">10-20cm of recently fallen snow may have been pushed into wind slabs in exposed terrain. Below this you'll likely find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. Reports of whumpfing and remote triggering on these layers suggest a persistent weakness with the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">If you haven't already, check out the awesome conditions video at http://www.skiinggolden.com/.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with almost no field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Last weekends 30 - 60 cm of storm snow has been redistributed by strong SW winds into wind slabs on lee slopes. Because of the strength of the winds, these may be found further down the slope than usual. Prior to the storm, rain soaked the snowpack in the Lizard Range to at least 2200m. This may have strengthened the upper snowpack but there is at least one, probably more, problematic layers in the Lizard and Flathead ranges. The facet crust combo formed during November's dry spell is likely down around a meter. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing. The cold temps are probably contributing to the lack of observed activity, but that is purely conjecture. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">This forecast isn't going to get much better until we get some field observations. If you've got some, please email your obs to: forecaster@avalanche.ca THANKS!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar and near surface facets are reported to be growing during the cold and clear weather. Strong Northeast outflow winds have created 10-40 cm deep wind slabs since Friday, and recent strong and variable winds have since loaded and reverse loaded the light dry snow that came at the end of the storm. Below this new snow is a solid weight bearing crust in all but the highest alpine slopes. There is a chance that a consolidated slab exists in some areas in the alpine above a deeply buried crust from earlier in November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Conditions vary significantly throughout the region, at different elevations, and on different aspects. The common theme is that the snowpack is generally shallow, quite facetted (sugary), and wind affected. In the past couple days we've seen 15-40 cm of low density snow fall. This snow buries a previous surface that was heavily wind affected, with possible pockets of surface. New dense wind slabs may be found on a variety of aspects in open terrain. The mid-November crust-facet layer is now 40-60 cm deep and continues to show easy to moderate shears in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A dusting of low density snow overlies a variety of surfaces which may include wind slabs at higher elevations and a hard rain crust that extends to about 1900m. Approximately 100cm below the surface you'll likely find weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Recent snowpack tests suggest the layers can still be human triggered, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The current snow surface is highly variable and includes surface facets (dry sugary snow) and surface hoar in sheltered areas, and pockets of wind slab or an ice crust in open wind-exposed terrain (depending on aspect). Strong and variable winds over the past week have probably created dense wind slabs on a variety of aspects and has cross-loaded gulley features. A weak layer of facetted snow on a crust may be lurking deeper in the snowpack, but may be limited to slopes above treeline. There's limited recent info on this weakness so I recommend digging to confirm the existence of the layer, its depth, and to test its strength. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Approximately 1m of settling storm snow sits on weak crystals which formed throughout early and mid-November. These weak crystals include facets on a hard rain crust, and surface hoar (which may also sit on a crust on steep southerly slopes). Snowpack data from the Cariboo region is very limited at the moment, but I expect these layers are reacting similarly to the North Selkirk/Monashees because the formation conditions were generally the same. Recent snowpack tests suggest these layers can still be human triggered in some locations, and if triggered, are capable of producing wide propagations and large avalanches. Recent variable winds may have redistributed surface snow creating dense wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Surface: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Before Friday, snow surfaces included wind slabs (variable in distribution); surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Upper-mid pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5-30 cm of settling snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Lower pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with almost no field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Last weekends 30 - 60cm of storm snow buried a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed during November's dry spell. That interface is probably around a meter down now. Not much us known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">This forecast isn't going to get much better until we get some field observations. If you've got some, please send them in. Eventually you'll be able to use the Mountain Information Network, but for now please email your obs to: forecaster@avalanche.ca THANKS!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Things are changing but very slowly.  On average there is about 1m of snow at treeline areas.  This snow is generally weak and facetted but there are few layers that skiers and riders should be aware of.  THe Nov26th facet interface is generally down 60cm.  Moderate Sudden collapse sheers are being observed at this interface that indicate there is still potential for human triggerring.  The november rain crust is down closer to 80cm and moderate sheers are also being observed at this interface on a layer of facets overlying it.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. We still have a ways to go...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We are still working with very few field observations from this region. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent reports describe a shallow, highly variable, and wind affected snowpack with an average snow depth of 60 to 100 cm. In sheltered areas you might find 20-30 cm of dry facetted snow sitting on a crust at treeline, and 30 cm above the crust in the alpine. Extensive wind effect has either scoured down to the crust or created pockets of wind slab in open terrain in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface layers consist of variable wind slabs or dry snow. Below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with almost no field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Last weekends 30 - 60 cm of storm snow has been redistributed by strong SW winds into wind slabs on lee slopes. Because of the strength of the winds, these may be found further down the slope than usual. Prior to the storm, rain soaked the snowpack in the Lizard Range to at least 2200m. This may have strengthened the upper snowpack but there is at least one, probably more, problematic layers in the Lizard and Flathead ranges. The facet crust combo formed during November's dry spell is likely down around a meter. Not much us known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing. The cold temps are probably contributing to the lack of observed activity, but that is purely conjecture. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">This forecast isn't going to get much better until we get some field observations. If you've got some, please email your obs to: forecaster@avalanche.ca THANKS!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The current snow surface is highly variable with surface hoar or facetted snow reported in sheltered areas, and pockets of wind slab or a crust (from last weeks rain) in open wind-exposed terrain. Recent cold temperatures have created a strong temperature gradient in the upper snowpack resulting in facetting of the most recent snow. Winds during the past week have been variable and have blown snow into dense wind slabs on a variety of aspects or has cross-loaded gulley features. A solid rain crust is buried 10-20 cm deep at and below treeline. Another crust that was buried in mid-November is down 40-60 cm. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Conditions vary significantly throughout the region, at different elevations, and on different aspects. The common theme is that the snowpack is generally shallow, quite facetted (sugary), and very wind affected. In the past couple days we've seen 15-40 cm of low density snow fall. This snow buries a previous surface that was heavily wind affected, with possible pockets of surface hoar in sheltered areas. New dense wind slabs may be found on a variety of aspects in open terrain. The mid-November crust-facet layer is now 40-60 cm deep and continues to show easy to moderate shears in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Surface: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces can be found hidden under Friday's light snowfall. These include wind slabs (hard and soft), mostly lee to northerly winds but variable in distribution; surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Upper-mid pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5-30 cm of fluffy snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a layer of surface hoar and/or facets (both weak crystal types) can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations, &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Lower pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 10 cm of new snow now covers the previous variable snow surface that consisted of facets (dry sugary snow) and surface hoar in sheltered areas, or pockets of old wind slab and an ice crust in open wind-exposed terrain (depending on aspect). Fresh new wind slabs may have formed in open north and east facing slopes, especially below ridges and behind terrain features in the alpine. A weak layer of facetted snow on a crust may be lurking deeper in the snowpack, but may be limited to slopes above treeline. There's limited recent info on this weakness so I recommend digging to confirm the existence of the layer, its depth, and to test its strength. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent reports from the region suggest that 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak crust/facet layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests show generally improving strength, but the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Forecast winds may build wind slabs on lee slopes.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Surface: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday's light snow hides surfaces including wind slabs (variable in distribution); surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Upper-mid pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5-30 cm of settling snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Lower pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with almost no field data. If you have been out in the mountains, we'd love to hear from you. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Last weekends 30 - 60cm of storm snow buried a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed during November's dry spell. That interface is probably around a meter down now. Not much us known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">This forecast isn't going to get much better until we get some field observations. If you've got some, please send them in. Eventually you'll be able to use the Mountain Information Network, but for now please email your obs to: forecaster@avalanche.ca THANKS!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not a lot of change lately. Below treeline, the snowpack has no real structure. The depth is there, but there is no support for skiing or snowshoeing. Expect to walk on the ground. It isn't until the treeline elevations are reached that it changes. 2300m and higher is where the wind has had a chance to create slabs. The buried slabs vary in density depending on aspect and how open the terrain is. Open areas will have a denser slab. The layers to watch continue to be the Nov 24th facets and the Nov 6 crust. At 2300m these average a depth of 60 and 80 respectively. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. We still have a ways to go...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As we begin our forecasting season, we are working with limited information from the field. This forecast is primarily based off weather station data and a few field observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent reports describe a shallow, highly variable, and wind affected snowpack with an average snow depth of 60 to 100 cm. The current snow surface is probably a mix of surface hoar, sugary facets, wind slab, or a crust depending on elevation and aspect. In some places a rain crust might be buried 20-30 cm deep, while in wind-exposed areas it could be on the surface. Deeper in the snowpack you may find another rain crust that formed earlier in the season. There's not much recent info on the strength of these crust interfaces. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface layers consist of variable wind slabs and dry snow. Below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last weekends 30 - 60 cm of storm snow has been redistributed by strong SW winds into wind slabs on lee slopes. Because of the strength of the winds, these may be found further down the slope than usual. Prior to the storm, rain soaked the snowpack in the Lizard Range to at least 2200m. This may have strengthened the upper snowpack but there is at least one, probably more, problematic layers in the Lizard and Flathead ranges. The facet crust combo formed during November's dry spell is likely down around a meter. Not much us known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing. The cold temps were probably contributing to the lack of observed activity, but that is purely conjecture and it's starting to warm up...</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This forecast isn't going to get much better until we get some field observations. If you've got some, please email your obs to: forecaster@avalanche.ca THANKS!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 10 cm of new snow now covers the previous variable snow surface consisting of surface hoar or facetted snow in sheltered areas, and pockets of old wind slab or a crust (from last weeks rain) in open wind-exposed terrain. Recent cold temperatures created a strong temperature gradient in the upper snowpack resulting in facetting of the surface layers. Winds during the past week were strong variable and blew snow into dense wind slabs on a variety of aspects or cross-loaded gulley features. Fresh new wind slabs are also possible below ridges and terrain features on north and east facing terrain. A solid rain crust is buried 10-40 cm deep up to 2000 m. Another crust that was buried in mid-November is down 40-60 cm. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Conditions vary significantly throughout the region, at different elevations, and on different aspects. The common theme is that the snowpack is generally shallow, quite facetted (sugary), and very wind affected. Expected snowfall later on Friday will cover a variety of surface forms including surface hoar or faceted snow in sheltered areas, and wind slab or ice crusts in exposed terrain. Strong E-SE winds have created dense new wind slabs in open north or west-facing terrain. Old hard wind slabs may also be lurking underneath. The mid-November crust-facet layer is now 40-60 cm deep and continues to show easy to moderate shears in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Surface: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces can be found hidden under Friday's light snowfall. These include wind slabs (hard and soft), mostly lee to northerly winds but variable in distribution; surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Upper-mid pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5-30 cm of snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a layer of surface hoar and/or facets (both weak crystal types) can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations, &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Lower pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 10-15 cm of moist new snow now covers the previous variable snow surface that consisted of facets (dry sugary snow) and surface hoar in sheltered areas, or pockets of old wind slab and an ice crust in open wind-exposed terrain (depending on aspect). Fresh new wind slabs may have formed in open north and east facing slopes, especially below ridges and behind terrain features in the alpine. There are probably a couple notable crusts in the upper to mid snowpack. The deeper crust may be associated with a weak layer of facetted snow, but may be limited to slopes above treeline. There's limited recent info on this weakness so I recommend digging to confirm the existence of the layer, its depth, and strength. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Recent wind has created wind slabs in lee features in exposed alpine terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Surface: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday's light snow hides surfaces including wind slabs (variable in distribution); surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD"> // Upper-mid pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5-30 cm of settling snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">// Lower pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A thin new storm slab is starting to develop above the hard crust that was buried around November 28th. There has been about 15-20 cm above the hard crust that may have been transported into windslabs at higher elevations. The developing storm slab may not bond well to the old surface where it became facetted during the cold spell last week. Some areas may have had a layer of surface hoar buried yesterday (December 5th) that could provide a weak bond to the new snow. The November 20th crust may be anywhere from about 40 cms above the ground in deeper snowpack areas to on the ground or non-existent in shallower snowpack areas. The November 20th crust continues to give moderate planar results in snow profile tests in some areas; that means the right combination of load and terrain features may result in an avalanche down this buried layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Last weekends 30 - 60cm of storm snow buried a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed during November's dry spell. That interface is probably around a meter down now. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temps are promoting rapid settlement in the snowpack.  The Nov 24th FC layer and the Nov 6th interface are down 50cm and 80cm.  Both are continuing to produce moderate sheers.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. We still have a ways to go...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent reports describe a shallow, highly variable, and wind affected snowpack with an average snow depth of 60 to 100 cm. A dusting of new snow may be covering a mix of surface hoar, sugary facets, wind slab, or a crust depending on elevation and aspect. In some places a crust might be buried 20-40 cm deep, while in wind-exposed areas it could still be on the surface. Deeper in the snowpack you may find another rain crust (with facets above or below) that formed earlier in the season. There's not much recent info on the strength of these crust interfaces. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface layers consist of variable wind slabs and dry snow. Below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm slab is starting to develop above the recent windslabs that were created by strong Southwest winds transporting the snow from last weekend. Below the windslabs there is a crust from a rain event on November 29th when the wet storm hit the region and then cooled down as cold air moved in from the East side of the Rockies. There may also be a crust down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in your area in early November. We are starting to get more information from commercial operations, but if you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 40 cm of moist new snow now covers the previous variable snow surface consisting of surface hoar or facetted snow in sheltered areas, and pockets of old wind slab or a crust (from last weeks rain) in open wind-exposed terrain. The amount of new snow depends on your location and elevation. Winds during the past week were strong variable and blew snow into dense wind slabs on a variety of aspects or cross-loaded gulley features. Fresh new wind slabs are also likely below ridges and terrain features on north and east facing terrain. A solid rain crust is buried 10-40 cm deep up to 2000 m. Another crust that was buried in mid-November is down 40-60 cm. The deeper crust may be associated with a layer of facets above or below. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Conditions vary significantly throughout the region. The common theme is that the snowpack is generally shallow, quite facetted (sugary), and very wind affected. A dusting of new snow now covers a mix of surface hoar or faceted snow in sheltered areas, and wind slab or ice crusts in exposed terrain. Strong E-SE winds have created dense new wind slabs in open north or west-facing terrain. Old hard wind slabs may also be lurking underneath. The mid-November crust-facet layer is now 40-60 cm deep and continues to show easy to moderate shears in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">Surface: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces can be found hidden under Friday's light snowfall. These include wind slabs (hard and soft), mostly lee to northerly winds but variable in distribution; surface hoar, which has grown large in sheltered spots; and sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">// Upper-mid pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5-30 cm of snow sits on a crust which formed in late November. This crust is supportive above about 1800m, but is breaking down at lower elevations. About 1m down, a layer of surface hoar and/or facets (both weak crystal types) can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations, &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_6A269DDD">// Lower pack: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust from early November is buried over a metre down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 10-15 cm of moist new snow now covers the previous variable snow surface that consisted of facets (dry sugary snow) and surface hoar in sheltered areas, or pockets of old wind slab and an ice crust in open wind-exposed terrain (depending on aspect). Fresh new wind slabs may have formed in open north and east facing slopes, especially below ridges and behind terrain features in the alpine. There are probably a couple notable crusts in the upper to mid snowpack. The deeper crust may be associated with a weak layer of facetted snow, but may be limited to slopes at and above treeline. One recent snowpack test on this layer in the northwest part of the region produced a sudden &quot;pops&quot; result down 80 cm on a north aspect at treeline. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 15cm of new snow sits on a weak layer of surface hoar.  Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Recent wind has created wind slabs in lee features in exposed alpine terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-20cm of new snow sits on a weak layer of surface hoar and/or a sun crust. In windier places, this new snow may have formed wind slabs in leeward features. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 20-30cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again with the upcoming storm system.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The developing storm slab is variable across the region. In the Monashee range near Big and Little White we have reports of a 25 cm storm slab that has been transported by the wind at higher elevations and it is sitting on a weak layer of facets or surface hoar. This storm slab is giving easy results from light forces in snow profile tests. The new storm slab is reported to be thinner near Nelson where it is sitting on a thin re-frozen rain crust. In the Kootenay Pass area the new storm slab is about 20 cm and may be sitting on surface hoar, and then another layer of about 20 cm (40 cm total) above the hard November 29th crust. The November 20th crust may be anywhere from about 40 cms above the ground in deeper snowpack areas to on the ground or non-existent in shallower snowpack areas. The November 20th crust continues to give moderate planar results in snow profile tests in some areas; that means the right combination of load and terrain features may result in an avalanche down to this buried layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Last weekends 30 - 60cm of storm snow buried a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed during November's dry spell. That interface is probably around a meter down now. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much is changing out there right now.  Warm temps are promoting settlement within the snowpack and overall strengthening long term.  The 1106Cr is down 80cm and the 1124FC interface is down 60cm.  Both are producing moderate sheers that are becomming more resistant planar in nature.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. We still have a ways to go...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent reports describe a shallow, highly variable, and wind affected snowpack with an average snow depth of 60 to 100 cm. A dusting of new snow may be covering a mix of surface hoar, sugary facets, wind slab, or a crust depending on elevation and aspect. In some places a crust might be buried 20-40 cm deep, while in wind-exposed areas it could still be on or near the surface. Deeper in the snowpack you may find another rain crust (with facets above and/or below) that formed earlier in the season. One observer in the Hankin area found these crusts down 30 and 40 cm with facets above and below. Snowpack tests showed easy or moderate &quot;pops or drops&quot; results on both layers respectively.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snowfall sits on a layer of surface hoar.&nbsp; Another 15-20cm below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm slab is starting to develop above the recent windslabs that were created by strong Southwest winds transporting the snow from last weekend. Below the windslabs there is a crust from a rain event on November 29th when the wet storm hit the region and then cooled down as cold air moved in from the East side of the Rockies. There may also be a crust down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in your area in early November. We are starting to get more information from commercial operations, but if you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent snowfall amounts vary but in some areas above 1800 m there could be 20-40 cm of moist storm snow, which now covers the previous snow surface of surface hoar or facetted snow in sheltered areas, and pockets of old wind slab or a crust (from last weeks rain) in open wind-exposed terrain. Fresh new wind slabs are likely below ridges and terrain features on exposed north and east facing slopes. This new snow may also be covering old dense or hard wind slabs from the outflow winds we experienced during the recent dry spell. A solid rain crust is buried 20-50 cm deep up to around 2000 m. Another crust that was buried in mid-November is down 40-60 cm. The deeper crust may be associated with a layer of facets above or below. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Conditions vary significantly throughout the region. The common theme is that the snowpack is generally shallow, quite facetted (sugary), and very wind affected. 5-15 cm of new snow now covers a mix of surface hoar or faceted snow in sheltered areas, and wind slab or ice crusts in exposed terrain. Strong NE-SE winds have created dense new wind slabs in open north or west-facing terrain. Old hard wind slabs may also be lurking underneath. The mid-November crust-facet layer is now 40-60 cm deep and continues to show easy to moderate shears in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, at 80 cm down there is another crust that is breaking down and becoming bonded to the surrounding snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-20cm of new snow sits on a weak layer of surface hoar and/or a sun crust. In windier places, this new snow may have formed wind slabs in leeward features. In the south of the region, below around 1800m elevation and down around 20-30cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Snowpack tests on this layer are showing improving results, but in some locations &quot;pops and drops&quot; indicate this beast could still be touchy. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again with the upcoming storm system.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 10-15 cm of moist then refrozen snow buried the previous variable snow surface that consisted of facets and large surface hoar in sheltered areas, or pockets of old wind slab and an ice crust in open wind-exposed terrain (depending on aspect). There are probably a couple notable crusts in the upper to mid snowpack. The deeper crust may be associated with a weak layer of facetted snow, but may be limited to slopes at and above treeline. One recent snowpack test on this layer in the northwest part of the region produced a sudden &quot;pops&quot; result down 80 cm on a north aspect at treeline. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 15-30cm of new snow sits on a weak layer of surface hoar. Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Recent wind has created wind slabs in lee features in exposed alpine terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-20cm of new snow sits on a weak layer of surface hoar and/or a sun crust. In windier places, this new snow has likely formed into wind slabs in leeward features. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 30-40cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again with the upcoming storm system.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The developing storm slab is variable across the region. In the Monashee range near Big and Little White we have reports of a 25 cm storm slab that has been transported by the wind at higher elevations and it is sitting on a weak layer of facets or surface hoar. This storm slab is giving easy results from light forces in snow profile tests. The new storm slab is reported to be thinner near Nelson where it is sitting on a thin re-frozen rain crust. In the Kootenay Pass area the new storm slab is about 20 cm and may be sitting on surface hoar, and then another layer of about 20 cm (40 cm total) above the hard November 29th crust. The November 20th crust may be anywhere from about 40 cms above the ground in deeper snowpack areas to on the ground or non-existent in shallower snowpack areas. The November 20th crust continues to give moderate planar results in snow profile tests in some areas; that means the right combination of load and terrain features may result in an avalanche down to this buried layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Last weekends 30 - 60cm of storm snow buried a weak layer of facets over a crust which formed during November's dry spell. That interface is probably around a meter down now. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar was observed in sheltered areas today. Recent warm temperatures have settled the snowpack creating a more cohesive slab above the November rain crust at treeline and below. Alpine areas are widely wind effected with widespread wind slabs. A layer of facets above the November rain crust is producing consistent moderate shears in snowpack stability tests. Test profile today at 2300m on a SE aspect on a 30 degree slope produced moderate Compression Tests and moderate Extended Column Tests down 65 to 70cm in the facets above the November crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent reports describe a shallow, highly variable, and wind affected snowpack with an average snow depth of 60 to 100 cm at treeline elevations. There are two distinct crusts in the snowpack; the upper crust is down 15-25cm in sheltered areas and is the current layer of concern. It's surrounded by weak faceted snow and has been giving easy test results with sudden shears and collapses. In some areas the lower crust was found just below the upper crust with weak faceted snow in between, while elsewhere the lower crust is just off the ground. The highly variable and wind-affected nature of the snowpack means that slopes on the leeward side of ridge crests and terrain breaks will have significantly deeper and more hazardous slabs overlying these weaknesses. Check out the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BBSkiSociety/" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Bulkley Valley Ski Society Facebook page</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for recent observations from the Hankin and Evelyn areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snowfall sits on a layer of surface hoar.&nbsp; Another 15-20cm below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm slab exists above recently formed windslabs. Below the windslabs there is a crust from a rain event on November 29th. There may also be a crust and facets down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in your area in early November. We are starting to get more information from commercial operations, but if you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent snowfall amounts vary but in some areas above 1800 m there could be 20-40 cm of moist storm snow, which has refrozen with another crust on the surface. This buried the previous snow surface of surface hoar or facetted snow in sheltered areas, which probably no longer sensitive to triggers. The midpack consists of more crusts and old facets. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Conditions vary significantly throughout the region. In general, the snowpack is shallow, facetted, and wind affected. Approximately  5-15 cm of recent warm storm snow sits on a mix of surface hoar or faceted snow in sheltered areas, and wind slab or ice crusts in exposed terrain. Strong NE-SE winds have created dense new wind slabs in alpine and exposed treeline areas on the leeward side of ridge crests and terrain features. The mid-November crust-facet layer is now 40-60 cm deep and recently gave easy to moderate shears in snowpack tests.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30cm of new snow sits on a weak layer of surface hoar and/or a sun crust. In windier places, this new snow may have formed wind slabs in leeward features. In the south of the region, below around 1800m elevation and down around 20-30cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again with the upcoming storm system.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain is saturating the upper snowpack and resulting in wet, loose, and cohesionless surface snow as high as alpine elevations in the southern part of the region. While in the alpine and as low as treeline elevations further north wet snow and wind has formed new storm slabs and is overloading previous weaknesses buried within the snowpack, such as the mid-November crust-facet layer. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow is expected to be wet up to around 2000 m and moist up to around 2400 m. Below the old storm snow (15-30cm) is a weak layer of surface hoar. Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Recent wind has created wind slabs in lee features in exposed alpine terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the Monashees of wet snow up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 40-50cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Rain has likely saturated and weakened the upper snowpack in most areas. The extent of saturation will depend on elevation and the amount of rain that fell. At upper elevations, precipitation may have fallen as moist snow, and may be adding load and cohesion to a storm slab which overlies a weak layer of facets, surface hoar, a hard rain crust or a combination thereof. This storm slab has given easy results from light forces in snow profile tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combination which is more of a concern in the north of the region. This destructive layer continues to produce whumpfing, and may see a &quot;wake-up&quot; with warming and the load from rain or snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Recent warming suggests snow surfaces are likely moist or wet at most elevations. There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the South Rockies snowpack. Up to about 90cm of settled snow overlies a weak layer of facets and crusts which formed during November's dry spell. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it. But, it doesn't take much of a leap of faith to understand that a meter deep slab sitting on a persistent weak layer is a potentially bad thing.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light rain fell through the day to an elevation of at least 2300m. The extent of the rain soaked snow is unknown at this time. Blowing snow was observed at ridge top due to extreme SW winds. Settlement of the upper and mid snowpack has caused an increase in the potential for human-triggering due to more dense slab properties above the weak basal layers. The November rain crust is the main culprit here and will remain a serious concern for sometime to come.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light rain is saturating the upper snowpack and resulting in wet, loose, and cohesionless surface snow at lower elevations. Recent reports describe a shallow, highly variable, and wind affected snowpack with an average snow depth of 60 to 100 cm at treeline elevations. There are two distinct crusts in the snowpack; the upper crust is down 15-25cm in sheltered areas and is the current layer of concern. It's surrounded by weak faceted snow and has been giving easy test results with sudden shears and collapses. In some areas the lower crust was found just below the upper crust with weak faceted snow in between, while elsewhere the lower crust is just off the ground. The highly variable and wind-affected nature of the snowpack means that slopes on the leeward side of ridge crests and terrain breaks will have significantly deeper and more hazardous slabs overlying these weaknesses. Check out the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BBSkiSociety/" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Bulkley Valley Ski Society Facebook page</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for recent observations from the Hankin and Evelyn areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New moist or wet snowfall sits 10-20cm above a layer of surface hoar. Another 15-20cm below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to about 50cm of well-settled snow lies above a hard crust from a rain event on November 29th. Limited reports suggest an improving bond at this interface, although observations have been scarce. At most elevations this settled snow is likely moist from recent warm temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There may also be a crust and facets down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in early November. We are starting to get more information from commercial operations, but if you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain, wet snow and wind has formed new storm slabs and is overloading previous weaknesses buried within the snowpack, such as crusts and associated facets. While at treeline and below, the upper snowpack is becoming saturated, loose, and cohesionless. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain is saturating the upper snowpack and resulting in wet, loose, and cohesionless surface snow as high as alpine elevations in the southern part of the region. While in the alpine and as low as treeline elevations further north wet snow and wind has formed new storm slabs and is overloading previous weaknesses buried within the snowpack, such as the mid-November crust-facet layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the Monashees of wet snow up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 40-50cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain-soaked snow should soon be frozen into a solid surface crust that extends as high as treeline elevations with 15-20 cm of fresh snow on top, depending on elevation, in the northern part of the region. Meanwhile at alpine elevations fresh storm and wind slabs have likely developed and weakness deeper in the snowpack, such as crusts with associated facets, likely remain under critical loads. Snow pack depth and snow quality drastically diminishes as you drop below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain to high elevations is saturating the upper snowpack. A wet snow surface is expected up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. About 1 m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried around 1.2 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain to high elevations is saturating the upper snowpack.  A wet snow surface is expected up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 40-50cm is a rain crust. About 1m or so down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried around 1.2 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Rain has likely saturated and weakened the upper snowpack in most areas. The extent of saturation will depend on elevation and the amount of rain that fell. At upper elevations, precipitation may have fallen as moist snow, and may be adding load and cohesion to a storm slab which overlies a weak layer of facets, surface hoar, a hard rain crust or a combination thereof.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combination which is a concern at higher elevations in many parts of the region. This destructive layer continues to produce whumpfing, and may see a &quot;wake-up&quot; with warming and the load from rain or snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Recent warming suggests snow surfaces are likely moist or wet at most elevations. There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the mid and lower snowpack. About 90cm of settled snow overlies a weak layer of facets and crusts which formed during November's dry spell. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it, but I'd assume it exists in most alpine terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain is falling at this time as high as 2300m.  Below this elevation the snowpack is moist and settling rapidly.  Above this elevation the region has been hit hard by the strong winds from last week and many area are looking pretty rugged.  Long term this warm temps and settlement will help consolidate some of the weak layers but right now, it sure makes skiing an unpleasant thought!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain-soaked snow should soon be frozen into a solid surface crust that extends as high as treeline elevations with 15-20 cm of fresh snow on top, depending on elevation. Meanwhile above the previous freezing levels fresh storm and wind slabs have likely developed and weakness deeper in the snowpack, such as crusts with associated facets, likely remain under critical loads. Check out the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BBSkiSociety/" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Bulkley Valley Ski Society Facebook page</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for recent observations from the Hankin and Evelyn areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain to high elevations is expected to be saturating the upper snowpack. A wet snow surface is expected up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Another 15-20cm below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. Deep in the snowpack you may find the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust) and/or a faceted rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. In some areas that already avalanched, the new storm snow may be sitting on a thick layer of facets that are sitting on the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to about 50cm of well-settled snow lies above a hard crust from a rain event on November 29th. Limited reports suggest an improving bond at this interface, although observations have been scarce. At most elevations this settled snow is likely moist from recent warm temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There may also be a crust and facets down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in early November. We are starting to get more information from commercial operations, but if you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Fluctuating freezing levels and heavy precipitation has generally resulted in rain-soaked snow that should soon be frozen into a solid crust that extends as high as alpine elevations with 15-20 cm of fresh wet snow stuck on top, depending on elevation. Meanwhile in the high alpine, deep fresh storm and wind slabs have likely developed, and weakness deeper in the snowpack, such as crusts with associated facets, likely remain under critical loads. The snow pack depth drops significantly below treeline with essentially no snow below 1600 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated the upper snowpack and resulted in wet, loose, and cohesionless surface snow as high as alpine elevations in the southern part of the region. As freezing levels drop, this should soon freeze into a solid surface crust with fresh wet snow stuck on top, depending on elevation. Meanwhile in the high alpine and as low as treeline elevations further north as much as 50 cm of recent snow and wind has formed new storm slabs and overloaded previous weaknesses buried within the snowpack, such as the mid-November crust-facet layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain to high elevations is saturating the upper snowpack. A wet snow surface is expected up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 40-50cm is a rain crust. About 1 m or so down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried around 1.2 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey region. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas with a relatively simple, recently rain-soaked, snowpack. Around the Duffey, we have limited observations, but it's expected that fresh storm and wind slabs exist and that these may be overloading snowpack weaknesses formed in November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow is expected to be wet up to around 2000 m and moist up to around 2400 m. Below the old storm snow (15-30cm) is a weak layer of surface hoar. Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Recent strong winds and warm temperatures have likely created deep and dense wind slabs in lee features in exposed alpine terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are recent reports of wet snow up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Higher elevations could have received 30-50 cm of dense storm snow. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 40-50cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Rain has likely saturated the upper snowpack in most areas. The extent of saturation will depend on elevation and the amount of rain that fell. The rain-soaked snow may exist as a hard crust in many areas with forecast cooling. At upper elevations, precipitation may have fallen as moist snow, and may be adding load and cohesion to a storm slab which overlies a weak layer of facets, surface hoar, a hard rain crust or a combination thereof.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combination which is a concern at higher elevations in many parts of the region. This destructive layer continues to produce whumpfing, and may see a &quot;wake-up&quot; with the load from rain or snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Recent warming suggests snow surfaces are likely moist or wet at most elevations. There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the mid and lower snowpack. About 90cm of settled snow overlies a weak layer of facets and crusts which formed during November's dry spell. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it, but I'd assume it exists in most alpine terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">An average of 2cm was lost within the last 24hrs due to settlement. The settlement has stabilized suggesting the snowpack is quite dense and settled. In the long run this will be a positive thing, for now it means a wet, heavy snowpack that is not especially solid at treeline and below treeline elevations. Snowpack values are: Burstall Pass 90, Highwood 71, Aster Lk 94 and Burstall Parking 49.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sadly there's not much (natural) snow on the ground and the weather forecast does not look too promising in the short term. The threshold snow depth before avalanches can start is generally about 30 cm for smooth ground (e.g. rock slabs, grass, or fine scree), 60 cm on average in open slopes at treeline, and 120 cm on very rough ground with boulders and large stumps. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20cm of new snow sits on previously rain-soaked snow below treeline. At alpine elevations, this new snow may be adding to recent storm slabs and wind slabs. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as loose sugary facets and crusts exist at least in some locations. We have limited field observations. Check out the Bulkley Valley Ski Society Facebook page for recent observations from the Hankin and Evelyn areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of moist or wet snow sits on a layer of surface hoar above 1800-2000 m. Below this the upper snowpack may be saturated. Another 15-20cm below this you may find a hard rain crust. In the Golden area this crust exists up to around 1600m, whereas in the south it is up to 2000m or higher. In total, last week's storm produced slabs up to 1m thick in the north of the region and around 60cm thick in the south. This slab sits on the mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust). Below this you will likely find a 15-20cm thick layer of sugary facets, which is sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The reactivity of these layers may be slowly diminishing, but they still warrant cautious consideration. Snowpack tests are getting hard pops and drops results, indicating the potential for large propagation and large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to about 50cm of well-settled snow lies above a hard crust from a rain event on November 29th. Limited reports suggest an improving bond at this interface, although observations have been scarce. At most elevations this settled snow is likely moist from recent warm temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There may also be a crust and facets down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in early November. We are starting to get more information from commercial operations, but if you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fluctuating freezing levels and heavy precipitation have generally resulted in rain-soaked snow that may form a hard crust extending as high as alpine elevations. Up to 40cm of fresh snow may be sitting atop this interface by Friday. If all goes well, we may experience a relatively quick healing process to take place within the storm snow, due to the forecast transition from wet and sticky to cooler, drier snow. However, you'll need to make your own (careful) observations to test this theory. In the high alpine, deep wind slabs and fragile cornices are likely to exist. Deeper snowpack weaknesses (e.g. crusts and facets) may be preserved at treeline and alpine elevations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy rain which recently saturated the upper snowpack resulted in wet, loose, and cohesionless surface snow as high as alpine elevations in the southern part of the region. As freezing levels drop, this may freeze into a solid surface crust with fresh wet snow stuck on top, depending on elevation. Meanwhile in the high alpine and as low as treeline elevations further north, as much as 70 cm of recent snow and wind has formed new storm slabs. These have overloaded previous weaknesses buried within the snowpack, such as the mid-November crust-facet layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the Monashees of wet snow up to 2000m elevation and moist snow to around 2400m. Strong winds are loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Below around 1800m elevation and down around 40-50cm is a rain crust but it appears that the snow above it is generally well bonded. About 1m down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. We may see these deep weak layers become a problem again as the storm continues to add new load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey region. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas with a relatively simple, recently rain-soaked, snowpack. Around the Duffey, we have limited observations, but it's expected that fresh storm and wind slabs exist and that these may be overloading snowpack weaknesses formed in November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface was moist or wet below 2000 m and moist up to around 2400 m. Cooler temperature on Friday may have created a surface crust, possibly with a bit of fresh snow on top. At higher elevations (above 1800 m) there is 30-70 cm of dense storm snow sitting on a sun crust or surface hoar. In exposed alpine areas this new snow has been blasted around by strong southerly winds. Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. Recent wind has likely created deep and dense wind slabs in lee features in exposed alpine terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and rain have resulted in wet snow up to at least 1900 m and moist snow even higher. Strong southerly winds have loading leeward features in the alpine. Below the new storm snow (~30-60 cm) may be a layer of surface hoar which was buried on Dec 5. Another weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found 80-100 cm deep in some locations.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">This layer has produced easy or moderate &quot;pops&quot; results in recent snowpack tests.</span><span class="s_6A269DDD"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Rain from the past week has saturated the snowpack in most areas, and a hard crust likely exists to about 2100m. The thickness of the crust will depend on elevation and how much rain fell. At higher elevations, snow and strong winds have added depth and cohesion to a storm slab which may overlie a weak layer of facets, surface hoar, a hard rain crust, or a combination thereof.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combination which formed in November. This interface remains a concern at higher elevations in many parts of the region as it continues to produce whumpfing, and has the potential for wide propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light rain from the past week has saturated the upper snowpack at higher elevations, and the entire snowpack below treeline. With forecast cooling, these surfaces will likely exist as new crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is at least one, maybe more, problematic layers in the mid and lower snowpack. About 90cm of settled snow overlies a weak layer of facets and crusts which formed during November's dry spell. Not much is known about the reactivity of this layer, nor the slab above it, but I'd assume it exists in most alpine terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Tiny bits of snow fell over the past 24hrs but generally nothing is changing.  Warm temps are continuing to settle out the snowpack and the winds from last week defiantly have made a mark on the region. There has been no freeze below 2000m for some time now and as a result the snow pack is sufferring.  Above this elevation, persistent slabs overlying the Nov 6th crust and the Nov24th crust are being observed.  There are failing in the moderate range and are most susceptible to triggerring from a thin snow pack area. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's not enough snow on the ground for avalanches yet. Stay tuned.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20cm of recent snow sits on previously rain-soaked snow below treeline. At alpine elevations, recent storm slabs and wind slabs may still be sensitive to triggers like the weight of  a person. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as loose sugary facets and crusts exist at least in some locations. We have limited field observations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface likely consists of moist/wet snow or a melt-freeze crust up to 2000-2200 m. Above this elevation there could be up to 40 cm of dense storm snow, which has probably been blasted around by strong southerly winds. In the Golden area a weak layer of surface hoar or facetted snow can be found under the storm snow. The mid pack consists of settled snow, facets, and melt-freeze crusts (primarily lower elevations). The mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust) is buried 60-80 cm deep. Below this you will likely find a thick layer of sugary facets sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The early November crust/facet layer did become reactive near Golden this week. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light rain from the past week has saturated the upper snowpack at higher elevations, and the entire snowpack below treeline. With forecast cooling, these surfaces will likely exist as new crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to about 50cm of well-settled snow lies above a hard crust from a rain event on November 29th. Limited reports suggest an improving bond at this interface, although observations have been scarce.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There may also be a hard crust and weak facets down near the ground depending on how much snow there was in early November. This potentially destructive interface would be most reactive in alpine terrain with smooth ground cover.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have any observations to share please send them to forecaster@avalanche.ca</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The recent prolonged storm dropped 100-200mm of water, with fluctuating freezing levels bringing rain at times to alpine elevations. Snow also accumulated above treeline, leading to deep wind slabs. Now the storm is over, storm slabs and wind slabs are likely to remain problematic for a day or two. However, my bigger concern is a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November and is now down 1-2m. This has woken up with storm snow loading and has the potential for deep slabs and wide propagations, and does not inspire huge confidence.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy rain which recently saturated the upper snowpack resulted in wet, loose, and cohesionless surface snow as high as alpine elevations in the southern part of the region. As freezing levels drop, this may freeze into a solid surface crust with fresh wet snow stuck on top, depending on elevation. Meanwhile in the high alpine and as low as treeline elevations further north, up to 70 cm of recent snow and wind has formed new storm slabs. These have overloaded previous weaknesses buried within the snowpack, such as the mid-November crust-facet layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and rain have resulted in wet snow up to at least 1900 m and moist snow even higher. Strong southerly winds have loaded leeward features in the alpine well below ridge crests. Below the new storm snow (~30-70 cm) may be a layer of surface hoar or a sun crust which was buried on Dec 5th. This layer has produced easy &quot;pops&quot; results in snowpack tests. Around 100-130 cm down, a weak layer of surface hoar and/or facets can be found in some locations. Recent snowpack tests on this layer are variable but in some locations is shows potential for triggering and propagating widely. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on these deep weak layers are showing slowly improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey region. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas. There's a small amount of recent storm snow over a relatively simple, recently rain-soaked snowpack. Around the Duffey, we have limited observations, but it's expected that wind slabs exist and that these may be overloading snowpack weaknesses formed in November (avalanches have been failing on these layers in the Whistler area). Below treeline the snowpack is likely be thin and have a sporty surface crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new surface crust is expected up to around treeline elevation.&nbsp; At or above treeline, dense storm snow is sitting on a sun crust or surface hoar. In exposed alpine areas this new snow has been blasted around by strong southerly winds and has likely created deep and dense wind slabs in lee features. Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain soaked snow surface has now refrozen with colder temperatures. A thick supportive crust is expected to around treeline and a breakable crust is expected in the lower part of the alpine. The highest elevations of the alpine may still have dry snow on the surface but this has likely been heavily wind-affected by recent strong southerly winds. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Rain from the past week has saturated the snowpack in most areas, and a hard crust likely exists to about 2100m. The thickness of the crust will depend on elevation and how much rain fell. At higher elevations, snow and strong winds have added depth and cohesion to a storm slab which may be sitting on a weak layer of hard rain crust, facets, and/or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combination which formed in November. This interface remains a concern at higher elevations in many parts of the region as it continues to produce whumpfing, and has the potential for wide propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light rain from the past week has saturated the upper snowpack at higher elevations, and the entire snowpack below treeline. With forecast cooling, these surfaces will likely exist as a new crust. There may be a buried persistent weak layer of crust and/or facets that is now down between 70-100 cm. This buried crust may continue to be triggered by large additional loads in high alpine areas that did not get rain during the recent storm. Pockets of wind slab may continue to be triggered by skiers and riders at or near ridgetops in areas where the snow was dry enough to be transported by the strong Southwest winds during the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 5 and 10cm of heavy wet snow fell overnight. This covered a rain-soaked layer of snow from rain events on Thursday and Friday. Now that temperatures are falling, the rain soaked layer should freeze and &quot;tighten&quot; up. At higher elevations this rain fell as snow and pockets of recently formed wind slab are present. Concern remains for the weak basal combination of rain crust and facets, though this layer is likely less active now at Treeline and below. In Alpine areas, concern for triggering of the basal weakness should remain for some time to come.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's not enough snow on the ground for avalanches yet. Stay tuned.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-20cm of recent snow sits on a newly formed rain crust. At alpine elevations, recent storm slabs and wind slabs may still be sensitive to triggers like the weight of a person. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as loose sugary facets and crusts exist in some locations. A recent snowpack test from the Hankin-Evelyn area produced easy/moderate pop results down 30 cm on one of three buried crusts. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain-soaked snow surface has refrozen and created a thick melt-freeze crust up to around 2100 m. A weaker breakable crust is being reported between 2100 and 2400 m. Above this elevation there may still be dry storm snow, which has probably been blasted around by strong southerly winds. In the Golden area a weak layer of surface hoar or facetted snow may be found under the storm snow at higher elevations. The mid pack consists of settled snow, facets, and melt-freeze crusts (primarily lower elevations). The mid-November weak layer (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust) is buried 60-80 cm deep. Below this you will likely find a thick layer of sugary facets sitting on a solid rain crust from early November. The early November crust/facet layer did become reactive near Golden this week during the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy rain and strong Southwest winds have saturated the snowpack at all but the highest elevations. In the high alpine there may be deep pockets of wind transported snow. Rain soaked snow at and below treeline has been sliding naturally as loose wet avalanches. Forecast freezing down to the valley bottoms should solidify the lower elevation snowpack. A persistent weak layer of buried crust with facets and/or surface hoar at the interface may continue to be a concern for storm slab avalanches in the alpine above the rain line from the recent storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The recent prolonged storm dropped 100-200mm of water, with fluctuating freezing levels bringing rain at times to alpine elevations. Snow also accumulated above treeline, leading to deep wind slabs. Now the storm is over, storm slabs and wind slabs may remain problematic for a day or two. However, my bigger concern is a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November and is now down 1-2 m. This woke up with the recent storm snow loading and has the potential for deep slabs and wide propagations, and does not inspire huge confidence. The likelihood of triggering this beast is dropping, however the consequences remain high.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. High alpine and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern to some operators.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain soaked snow surface has now refrozen with colder temperatures. A thick supportive crust is expected to around treeline and a breakable crust is expected in the lower part of the alpine. The highest elevations of the alpine may still have dry snow on the surface but this has likely been heavily wind-affected by recent strong southerly winds. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and have the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey region. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas. There's a small amount of recent storm snow over a relatively simple, recently rain-soaked snowpack. With temperatures falling a new firm crust will develop. Around the Duffey, we have limited observations, but it's expected that wind slabs exist and that these may be overloading snowpack weaknesses formed in November (avalanches have been failing on these layers in the Whistler area). Below treeline the snowpack is likely be thin and have a sporty surface crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust is expected up to around treeline elevation. At or above treeline, dense storm snow is sitting on a sun crust or surface hoar. In exposed alpine areas this new snow has been blasted around by strong southerly winds and has likely created deep and dense wind slabs in lee features. Reports from the region suggest that anywhere from 50-150 cm of settling snow overlies one or more weak layers which formed during November. Snowpack tests suggest that these weak layers are getting harder to trigger but still have the potential to produce large avalanches if triggered. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry snow but this has likely been wind-affected by recent strong southerly winds. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Rain from the past week has saturated the snowpack in most areas, and a hard crust likely exists to about 2100m. The thickness of the crust will depend on elevation and how much rain fell. The Kootenay Pass is reporting a 9 cm knife hard crust with 5 cm of new snow above, and closer to Nelson&nbsp; up to 2000 metres elevation we have reports of a 7 cm knife hard crust with 1 cm of new snow above. At higher elevations, snow and strong winds have added depth and cohesion to a storm slab which may be sitting on a weak layer of hard rain crust, facets, and/or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combination which formed in November. This interface remains a concern at higher elevations in many parts of the region as it continues to produce whumpfing, and has the potential for wide propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Overnight freezing has developed a surface crust up to about 2100 metres and the whole snowpack has re-frozen into a solid mass below about 1600 metres. Early Sunday 10-15 cm (@Harmer weather station) of dry light new snow has buried the crust that was left after the recent rain.&nbsp; There may be a buried persistent weak layer of crust and/or facets that is now down between 70-100 cm. This buried crust from November may continue to be triggered by large additional loads in high alpine areas that did not get rain during the recent storm. Pockets of wind slab may continue to be triggered by skiers and riders at or near ridgetops in areas where the snow was dry enough to be transported by the strong Southwest winds during the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Windslabs persist in Alpine terrain from the recent snows.  The newly formed Dec 6th Rain crust is being found up to 2100m and dry powder snow above this.  At the base of the snowpack, the problems associated with the basal weaknesses also persist.  These weaknesses include the 1106crust as well as the basal facets overlying this crust.  Some isolated surface facetting and isolated SH growth.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's not enough snow on the ground for avalanches yet. Stay tuned.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-20cm of recent snow sits on a newly formed rain crust. At alpine elevations, recent storm slabs and wind slabs may still be sensitive to triggers like the weight of a person. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as loose sugary facets and crusts exist in some locations. A recent snowpack test from the Hankin-Evelyn area produced easy/moderate pop results down 30 cm on one of three buried crusts. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain-soaked snow surface has refrozen and created a melt-freeze crust up to around 2200 m. Above this elevation there may still be dry storm snow, which has probably been blasted around by strong southerly winds. In some areas the storm snow may be sitting on a layer of old surface hoar. The mid pack consists of settled snow, facets, and melt-freeze crusts (primarily lower elevations). The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m. Tests are suggesting that this layer is getting difficult to trigger but still has the potential to produce large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy rain and strong Southwest winds have saturated the snowpack at all but the highest elevations. In the high alpine there may be deep pockets of wind transported snow. Rain soaked snow at and below treeline had been sliding naturally as loose wet avalanches has now re-frozen into a solid mass. Forecast freezing down to the valley bottoms for the next few days should continue to lock the snowpack together. A persistent weak layer of buried crust with facets and/or surface hoar at the interface may continue to be a concern for storm slab avalanches in the high alpine above the rain line from the recent storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The recent prolonged storm dropped 100-200 mm of water, with fluctuating freezing levels bringing rain at times to alpine elevations. Snow also accumulated above treeline, leading to deep wind slabs. Storm and winds slabs may remain problematic for a day or two. However, my bigger concern is a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November and is now down 1-2 m. This woke up with the recent storm snow loading and has the potential for deep slabs and wide propagations, and does not inspire huge confidence. The likelihood of triggering this beast is dropping, however the consequences remain high. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. High alpine and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern to some operators.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry snow but this has likely been wind-affected by recent strong southerly winds. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey/Hurley regions. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas. There's a small amount of recent storm snow over a relatively simple, recently rain-soaked snowpack. With temperatures falling a new firm crust will develop. In the north, we have limited observations, but it's expected that wind slabs exist and that these may be overloading snowpack weaknesses formed in November (avalanches have been failing on these layers in the Whistler area). Below treeline the snowpack is likely thin and refrozen.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists up to around 1800m elevation. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting.  A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface.  In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m in the south of the region, probably less in the north.&nbsp; We received reports that this deep weak layer has resulted in remotely triggered avalanches over the weekend.&nbsp; </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting.&nbsp; A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface.&nbsp; In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Surface hoar is growing on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m. Sun-exposed slopes are undergoing daily surface melt-freeze cycles, while shady slopes have a skiff of dry snow on the crust. Critical slopes are high elevation north aspects where preserved facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may be lurking under dense storm slabs, and a facet/crust combination near the base of the snowpack may be persisting. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is likely growing on a thick hard supportive near-surface rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m, with as much as 15cm of fresh snow on it. Last week's rain and subsequent freezing temperatures has effectively stabilized the snowpack at all but the highest elevations. However, in high alpine areas that did not get rain during the recent storm, there may be a buried persistent weak layer of crust and/or facets that is now down between 70-100 cm. This buried crust from November may continue to be triggered by large additional loads. Pockets of fresh wind slab may also be triggered at or near ridgetops in areas where the snow was dry enough to be transported by the strong Southwest winds during the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very dense wind slabs are found in the Alpine, but distribution and depth are highly variable. These wind slabs are providing some bridging strength over the basal weak layers, but human triggering is still possible especially from shallow snowpack areas. The Dec 13th rain crust extends up to between 2200 and 2100m and makes for very poor skiing below this elevation. The basal weak layer combo of weak facets sitting on November rain crust is still the primary concern due to the potential for full depth avalanches should a failure occur.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's not enough snow on the ground for avalanches yet. Stay tuned.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. High alpine and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern to some operators</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists up to around 2200 m. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m. Tests are suggesting that this layer is getting difficult to trigger but still has the potential to produce large avalanches.  We received reports that this deep weak layer has resulted in remotely triggered avalanches over the weekend.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is likely growing on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations, and sun-exposed slopes are likely undergoing a daily melt-freeze cycle. Last week's rain and subsequent freezing temperatures has effectively stabilized the snowpack at all but the highest elevations. However, slopes above the recent rain line may harbor persistent weaknesses from earlier in the season such as poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the neighbouring Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The recent prolonged storm dropped 100-200 mm of water, with fluctuating freezing levels bringing rain at times to alpine elevations. Snow also accumulated above treeline, leading to deep wind slabs. Storm and winds slabs may remain problematic for the short term. However, my bigger concern is a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November and is now down 1-2 m. This woke up with the recent storm snow loading and has the potential for deep slabs and wide propagations, and does not inspire huge confidence. The likelihood of triggering this beast is dropping, however the consequences remain high. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. High alpine and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern to some operators.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting.  A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface.  In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey/Hurley regions. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas. On the surface, fairly widespread surface hoar development has been reported. Below this, a small amount of recent storm snow overlies a thick rain crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north, we have very limited observations. That said, I expect a deeper, more complex snowpack where well settled storm snow overlies a mix of crusts and facets which formed in November. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists up to around 1800m elevation. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m in the south of the region, probably less in the north. We received reports that this deep weak layer has resulted in remotely triggered avalanches over the weekend. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Surface hoar is growing on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m. Sun-exposed slopes are undergoing daily surface melt-freeze cycles, while shady slopes have a skiff of dry snow on the crust. Critical slopes are high elevation north aspects where facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may be lurking under dense storm slabs, and older facet/crust weaknesses may be persisting. Recent snowpack tests at 2050 m in a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. Meanwhile in the Southern Purcells, snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is likely growing on a thick hard supportive near-surface rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m, with as much as 15cm of fresh snow on it. Last week's rain and subsequent freezing temperatures has effectively stabilized the snowpack at all but the highest elevations. However, in high alpine areas that did not get rain during the recent storm, there may be a buried persistent weak layer of crust and/or facets that is now down between 70-100 cm. This buried crust from November may continue to be triggered by large additional loads. Pockets of fresh wind slab may also be triggered at or near ridgetops in areas where the snow was dry enough to be transported by the strong Southwest winds during the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Today's travels had a slightly different snow structure than yesterday's. A more sheltered alpine (Mt Murray moraines, 2100m) area had a well settled snowpack that is 150cm deep.  The Nov 6th crust/depthhoar/facet layer is down 135cm's, and very weak. The midpack is currently bridging this weak layer giving a solid feel to the snowpack.  The midpack is made up of a thick, and moderately dense(1finger-pencil) windslab. Shallow areas are weaker and more susceptible to triggering.  Below treeline the Dec 13th crust is annoyingly persistent. It is breakable and very challenging to ski. It does improve with elevation, eventually it disappears at 2150m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's not enough snow on the ground for avalanches yet. Stay tuned.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies weak surface hoar which is reported to exist up to at least treeline elevation. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists up to around 2200 m. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m. Tests are suggesting that this layer is getting difficult to trigger but still has the potential to produce large avalanches. We received reports that this deep weak layer has resulted in remotely triggered avalanches over the weekend.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is likely growing on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations, and sun-exposed slopes are likely undergoing a daily melt-freeze cycle. Last week's rain and subsequent freezing temperatures has effectively stabilized the snowpack at all but the highest elevations. However, slopes above the recent rain line may harbor persistent weaknesses from earlier in the season such as poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the neighbouring Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects. Further west at 2050 m on a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass snowpack tests produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Current surfaces include a mix of stubborn wind slabs and settled storm snow in the alpine, and a hard rain crust at lower elevations. Surface hoar growth has been reported in sheltered areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">There is still concern for a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November. This woke up with the recent storm snow loading and has the potential for deep slabs and wide propagations. The likelihood of triggering this beast has dropped; however, if an avalanche released at this interface it would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include wind slabs in alpine terrain, hard rain crusts at lower elevations and weak surface hoar crystals. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. Upper elevation terrain and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey/Hurley regions. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas. On the surface, fairly widespread surface hoar development has been reported. Below this, a small amount of recent storm snow overlies a thick rain crust. In the north, we have very limited observations. That said, I expect a deeper, more complex snowpack where well settled storm snow overlies a mix of crusts and facets which formed in November. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists up to around 1800m elevation. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of large surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m in the south of the region, probably less in the north. We received reports that this deep weak layer has resulted in remotely triggered avalanches over the weekend. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of large surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Light flurries are burying large surface hoar sitting on or near a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m. Critical slopes are high elevation north aspects where facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may be lurking under dense storm slabs, and older facet/crust weaknesses may be persisting. Recent snowpack tests at 2050 m in a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. Meanwhile in the Southern Purcells, snowpack tests last weekend gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is likely growing on 10-20 cm of loose dry snow that is sluffing readily on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations. This near surface crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Including a weak layer of crust and/or facets that is now down between 70-100 cm. This buried crust from November may continue to be triggered by large additional loads. Pockets of fresh wind slab may also be triggered at or near ridgetops in areas where the snow was dry enough to be transported by the strong Southwest winds during the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much change in the last 24hrs. Slightly more wind effect today, but not enough to be a concern just yet. To add to the list of crusts, a sun crust was noted today on south aspects above 2200m. How this crust is distributed is unknown right now, but it is on the radar. Stability tests today at treeline had mostly hard results, which is encouraging, but still not a promise of a solid snowpack. Snow depths at 2200m were 60cm's, with the Nov 6 crust on average 40cm's down. The basal snowpack is depth hoar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's not enough snow on the ground for avalanches yet. Stay tuned.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies weak surface hoar which is reported to exist up to at least treeline elevation. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists up to around 2200 m. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of large surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m. Tests are suggesting that this layer is getting difficult to trigger but still has the potential to produce large avalanches. We received reports that this deep weak layer has resulted in remotely triggered avalanches over the weekend.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is growing on approximately 10 cm of loose dry snow that is sluffing readily on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations. This near surface crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the neighbouring Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects. Further west at 2050 m on a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass snowpack tests produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Current surfaces include a mix of stubborn wind slabs and settled storm snow in the alpine, and a hard rain crust at lower elevations. Surface hoar growth has been reported in sheltered areas. There is still concern for a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November. This woke up with the recent storm snow loading and has the potential for deep slabs and wide propagations. The likelihood of triggering this beast has dropped; however, if an avalanche released at this interface it would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include wind slabs in alpine terrain, hard rain crusts at lower elevations and weak surface hoar crystals. Last week's heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. Upper elevation terrain and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface crust exists to around 2100m and is generally supportive to skiers. Above this elevation is dry storm snow which is settling out and faceting. A new layer of large surface hoar is currently forming on the snow surface. In exposed alpine terrain, strong southerly winds last week may have resulted in variable distribution of the surface snow and the formation of wind slabs. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down. Snowpack tests on this deep weak layers are showing improving results, but in some locations these layers are still reactive and has the potential to release large slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the mix of old surface forms that include hard crusts, near surface facets, and surface hoar. Conditions in the Coquihalla area are quite different to the Duffey/Hurley regions. Reports from the Coquihalla suggest there's less than 1 m of snow in most avalanche areas. On the surface, fairly widespread surface hoar development has been reported. Below this, a small amount of recent storm snow overlies a thick rain crust. In the north, we have very limited observations. That said, I expect a deeper, more complex snowpack where well settled storm snow overlies a mix of crusts and facets which formed in November. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on a layer of large surface hoar. Up to around 1800m elevation this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 1800m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. The early November crust/facet layer is down around 1 m in the south of the region, probably less in the north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on a layer of large surface hoar. Up to around 2100m elevation this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. As wind increases with the progression of the storm, wind slabs are expected to form in leeward features. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">10-20 cm new snow has buried a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but on these slopes, facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may be lurking under dense storm slabs. Recent snowpack tests at 2050 m in a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. Meanwhile in the Southern Purcells, snowpack tests last weekend gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar has grown on top of 10-20 cm loose dry snow that has been sluffing readily on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this low density snow into thin wind slabs in exposed lee areas. At treeline and below, the near surface crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on alpine slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Professionals are still concerned with a buried crust from November, down 50-70 cm, that could be triggered by large loads. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No major changes in the snowpack. We have 3 significant layers out there, with only 2 of them being problematic. The problematic layers are the Nov 6th crust &amp; the Nov 24 facets. In many areas these layers have combined, however there are a few places where the layers are separate. The Nov 6th and/or the Nov 24 is down 60-80cm's at treeline. Right now all of our strength is coming from the midpack, which has been doing a pretty good job of bridging the lower weak layers. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As I write on Thursday, there is around 10-20 cm snow on the ground at around 1100 m. By the end of Friday, we can expect this to build to around 40-50 cm, more where it drifts into pillows behind ridges. With temperatures only just into the negative numbers, I suspect the snow to be dense. In many places, there will be significant ground roughness that has not yet been smoothed over by snow cover.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the dusting of new snow which overlies weak surface hoar reported to exist up to at least treeline elevation. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on a layer of large surface hoar. Up to around 2200m elevation this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2200m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. As wind increases with the progression of the storm, wind slabs are expected to form in leeward features. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas. A weak layer from the end of November sits in the middle of the snowpack and may still be reactive in some areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow is covering a prominent layer of surface hoar that itself rested on around 10 cm of loose dry snow over a crust. This top 10-20 cm of snow has been reported to be sluffing readily in steep terrain. The crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, however, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the neighbouring Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects. Further west at 2050 m on a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass snowpack tests produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. Keep these layers in mind if you are riding steep north aspect slopes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A new storm slab is expected to develop above the mix of current surfaces which include a mix of stubborn wind slabs and settled storm snow in the alpine, and a hard rain crust at lower elevations. Surface hoar growth has been reported in sheltered areas. There is still concern for a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the recent &quot;dusting&quot; of new snow that is sitting on a variety of surfaces which include wind slabs in alpine terrain, hard rain crusts at lower elevations and weak surface hoar crystals. Last week's heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and sports a weaker snowpack in general. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. Upper elevation terrain and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on a layer of large surface hoar. Up to around 2100m elevation this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow.&nbsp; A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the mix of old surface forms that include hard crusts, near surface facets, and surface hoar. In the Coquihalla there is 65-80 cm of snow on the ground above 1600 metres elevation, and below threshold for avalanches below 1500 metres. The recent surface hoar has been reported to have been mostly blown away by the Northeast wind before this new storm. In the North of the region it sounds like the recent surface hoar is 2-4 mm at treeline and up to 30 mm near open creeks below treeline. The knife hard December melt-freeze crust extends up to about 2100 metres and then tapers off to nothing by 2300 metres. The new storm slab may be up to 40 cm in the North of the region, and it may not be bonding well to the old crust/ surface hoar combination. The November crust is deeply buried and may become easier to trigger in isolated areas if the load from the storm slab overcomes the bond at the crust interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow is expected to bond poorly to a layer of large surface hoar. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs are building up. These are expected to bond poorly to a layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">10-20 cm new snow has buried a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2100 m. The crust/surface hoar interface is expected to produce a very good sliding layer once more snow falls, and avalanches that run on this layer could travel far as a result. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but on these slopes, facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may be lurking under dense storm slabs. Recent snowpack tests at 2050 m in a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. There is a possibility that additional load from lots of new snow, or a large trigger such as a cornice release could still trigger a deeper slab on shady aspects at high elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar has grown on top of 10-20 cm loose dry snow that has been sluffing readily on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this low density snow into thin wind slabs in exposed lee areas. At treeline and below, the near surface crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on alpine slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Professionals are still concerned with a buried crust from November, down 50-70 cm, that could be triggered by large loads. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few isolated flurries last night left a skiff of new snow. Some areas had 2-4 cms. Not enough to impact the snowpack as a whole, but enough to bury the surface hoar that's been growing for the last while. Not an avalanche problem just yet. Also of note today was the wind transport. A few cornices popped up overnight and undoubtedly an isolated pocket or two of windslab in the alpine. The Dec 13th crust is down 4-5 cms and hanging in there in terms of strength. Still very noticeable...unfortunately. As for the  midpack, it is also hanging in there with the consistent temperatures. No significant change. As always the Nov 24 facets &amp; Nov 6 rain crust are  lingering at the base of the snowpack waiting for a chance to show themselves. They are down an average of 70-90 cm's at tree line.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is only around 20 cm of rain-soaked snow at 1200 m, even less at lower elevations. Each time it snows, the rain seems to come and washes the snow away. In most places, you will find significant ground roughness that has not yet been smoothed over by snow cover.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the dusting of new snow which overlies weak surface hoar reported to exist up to at least treeline elevation. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">New snow sits on variable surfaces including wind-affected snow, surface hoar and a crust which exists below about 2200m. Winds are expected to shift new snow onto lee slopes over the next couple of days. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas. A weak layer from the end of November sits in the middle of the snowpack and is still reactive in some areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow is covering a prominent layer of surface hoar that itself rested on around 10 cm of loose dry snow over a crust. This top 10-30 cm of snow has been reported to have started to release easily as thin slabs in steep terrain. The crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, however, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the neighbouring Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects. Further west at 2050 m on a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass snowpack tests produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. Keep these layers in mind if you are riding steep north aspect slopes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A new storm slab is expected to develop above the mix of current surfaces which include a mix of stubborn wind slabs and settled storm snow in the alpine, and a hard rain crust at lower elevations. Surface hoar growth has been reported in sheltered areas. There is still concern for a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm slab is developing above the recent mix of surfaces which include wind slabs in alpine terrain, hard rain crusts at lower elevations and weak surface hoar crystals. Last week's heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and generally has a weaker snowpack. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. Upper elevation terrain and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs are building up. These are expected to bond poorly to a layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the mix of old surface forms that include hard crusts, near surface facets, and surface hoar. In the Coquihalla there is 65-80 cm of snow on the ground above 1600 metres elevation, and below threshold for avalanches below 1500 metres. The recent surface hoar has been reported to have been mostly blown away by the Northeast wind before this new storm. In the North of the region it sounds like the recent surface hoar is 2-4 mm at treeline and up to 30 mm near open creeks below treeline. The knife hard December melt-freeze crust extends up to about 2100 metres and then tapers off to nothing by 2300 metres. The new storm slab may be up to 40 cm in the North of the region, and it may not be bonding well to the old crust/ surface hoar combination. The November crust is deeply buried and may become easier to trigger in isolated areas if the load from the storm slab overcomes the bond at the crust interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs are building up. These are expected to bond poorly to a layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs are building up. These are bonding poorly to a layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">20-30 cm new snow has buried a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2400 m. As more snow falls, temperatures rise and winds increase on Saturday night, this developing storm slab will gain depth and cohesion adding to its destructive potential. The crust/surface hoar interface is expected to produce a very good sliding layer, and avalanches that run on this layer could travel far as a result. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but on these slopes, facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may be lurking under dense storm slabs. Recent snowpack tests at 2050 m in a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. There is a possibility that additional load from lots of new snow, or a large trigger such as a cornice release could still trigger a deeper slab on shady aspects at high elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar has grown on top of 10-20 cm loose dry snow that has been sluffing readily on a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends into alpine elevations. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this low density snow into thin wind slabs in exposed lee areas. At treeline and below, the near surface crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on alpine slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Professionals are still concerned with a buried crust from November, down 50-70 cm, that could be triggered by large loads. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A skiff of snow over the past few 24hrs continues to bury the surface hoar in the upper snowpack but generally is doing little to change the overall bigger picture. The Dec13th crust along with the Nov6th Crust will likely turn into bigger issues as winter progesses.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Each time it snows, the rain seems to come and wash the snow away. In most places, you will find significant ground roughness that has not yet been smoothed over by snow cover. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">If Saturday night's storm produces enough snow to exceed the ground surface roughness, avalanches may be possible.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm is expected to develop a storm slab above the dusting of new snow which overlies weak surface hoar reported to exist up to at least treeline elevation. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">New snow is building up and being shifted by winds onto lee slopes. This process may continue over the next couple of days, building thick wind slabs and fragile cornices. Two layers of surface hoar are buried in the upper snowpack. The more recent of these sits on a crust below about 2100m, and on settled snow at higher elevations. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow is covering a prominent layer of surface hoar that itself rested on around 10 cm of loose dry snow over a crust. This top 10-30 cm of snow has been reported to have started to release easily as thin slabs in steep terrain. With more snow, wind and warming on the way, slabs are expected to increase in size and reactivity The crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, however, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Recent snowpack tests gave easy sudden planer results on well preserved surface hoar in the neighbouring Southern Purcells where it was found down 30 cm on high north aspects. Further west at 2050 m on a NW aspect in Kootenay Pass snowpack tests produced moderate sudden results down 35 cm under the late-November crust and down 79 cm on facets above the early-November crust. Keep these layers in mind if you are riding steep north aspect slopes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A new storm slab is developing above the mix of current surfaces which include a mix of stubborn wind slabs and settled storm snow in the alpine, and a hard rain crust at lower elevations. Surface hoar growth has been reported in sheltered areas. There is still concern for a buried crust/facet layer which formed in November. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm slab is developing above the recent mix of surfaces which include wind slabs in alpine terrain, hard rain crusts at lower elevations and weak surface hoar crystals. Last week's heavy rain affected southern parts of the region up to alpine elevations, while the far north remained drier and generally has a weaker snowpack. Areas which previously received rain have probably now formed a hard frozen crust. Upper elevation terrain and far northern areas are likely to have wind slabs and large fragile cornices. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs are building up. These are expected to bond poorly to a layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab may be 40-50 cm thick in The Coquihalla and is reported to be bonding well to the December 11th crust. In the Coquihalla there is 70-100 cm of snow on the ground above 1600 metres elevation, and below threshold for avalanches below 1500 metres. The recent surface hoar has been reported to have been mostly blown away by the Northeast wind before this new storm. In the North of the region it sounds like the recent surface hoar is 2-4 mm at treeline and up to 30 mm near open creeks below treeline. The knife hard December melt-freeze crust extends up to about 2100 metres and then tapers off to nothing by 2300 metres. The new storm slab may be up to 70 cm in the North of the region, and it may not be bonding well to the old crust/ surface hoar combination. The November crust is deeply buried and may become easier to trigger in isolated areas if the load from the storm slab overcomes the bond at the crust interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow has built up above variable old surfaces including large fragile surface hoar crystals, a crust and/or facets. Winds may have built wind slabs and cornices on lee slopes. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs have built up above a touchy layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 50cm of recent storm snow has been shifted by strong winds into much deeper deposits in exposed terrain. This new snow overlies a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2400 m. This crust/surface hoar interface is now reactive, as widespread whumpfing and cracking were reported from the Rossland Range. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have buried touchy surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo has become less likely to trigger, although a recent avalanche indicates this destructive layer should still on our radar on steep, smooth terrain at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Generally light amounts of snow have fallen in the last few days. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into thin wind slabs in exposed lee areas. Below the recent storm snow you may find a layer of surface hoar. Below this, about 20cm of settled snow overlies a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends from the valley to alpine elevations. The crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Professionals are still concerned with a buried crust from November, down 50-70 cm, that could be triggered by large loads. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5 to 10cm of new snow has fallen in the past 36hrs. Strong to extreme SW winds are redistributing this snow and thin wind slab formation is ongoing in the Alpine and open areas at Treeline. The Dec 13th rain crust remains dominant in the snowpack below 2200m. The November rain crust and facet combo remains a concern deeper in the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reports indicate recent heavy precipitation fell as snow at higher elevations. Although observations have been extremely limited, we feel there may be enough snow for avalanches in some terrain at treeline. That said, the snow is likely moist, and forecast cooling should form a crust essentially &quot;locking&quot; the snowpack in place. Below treeline, there is not enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab is between 20-40 cm deep. Very strong winds have transported snow in the alpine and at treeline into pockets of windslab that may not be well bonded to the old surfaces. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Recent storm snow sits above two layers of surface hoar in the upper snowpack. The more recent of these sits on a crust below about 2100m, and on settled snow at higher elevations. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations.</span><span class="s_17AE1194" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some areas, close to 50cm of recent high density storm snow is covering a layer of surface hoar that itself rests on around 5cm of snow over a rain crust. Moderate winds and warming have added cohesion to the slab increasing its potential to propagate over wider distances. I'd maintain a cautious approach for some time as the buried surface hoar is suspected to be widespread in the Lizard Range, and possibly into other parts of the region. The rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, however, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The new storm slab is between 40-50 cm thick above the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer that extends at least up to treeline. This new storm slab has been transported by strong winds in the alpine and at treeline developing deep pockets of windslab that may not be well bonded to the old settled snow surface.&nbsp; The November 28th rain crust may still be exposed in some areas due to the stripping effect of the strong Southwest winds, or it may be deeply buried down 100-150 cm. The forecast ridge of High pressure should allow for some settling and bonding of the new storm snow, except where it is sitting on a hard crust with weak surface hoar or facets at the interface. The new storm brought some snow to below treeline terrain, but it still looks like only the upper part of this elevation band has enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm slab has developed that is about 50-70 cm thick at higher elevations. Strong Southwest winds have transported snow into windslabs that may be about 100 cm thick. Rain up to about 800-900 metres elevation may have resulted in loose wet avalanches where that rain fell on snow from earlier in the storm. Cornices are expected to be large and fragile due to new rapid growth. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind slabs have built up above a touchy layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab is typically 40-60 cm thick and sits on the rain crust/surface hoar layer that formed last week. The crust typically extends to around 2200m elevation and the surface hoar that sits above is typically 2-5mm where it exists.  In some areas, the new snow may be well bonded to this layer but in other areas the layer remains highly reactive so some local investigating may be required. Strong forecast winds on Tuesday are expected to quickly form touchy new wind slabs. The November crust is deeply buried near the ground and while triggering this layer is generally unlikely, the likelihood of triggering does increase during the storm with the additional weight of the new snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow has built up above variable old surfaces including large fragile surface hoar crystals, a crust and/or facets. This layer has the potential for remote triggering and wide propagations. Winds may have built wind slabs and cornices on lee slopes. A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas. Recent storm snow amounts are quite variable across the region. If you're in the south, have look at the North Columbia bulletin too.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 20-90 cm of storm snow has built up and been shifted by winds, creating slabs above a touchy layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. This interface is highly reactive (see avalanche summary). A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2400 m. This crust/surface hoar interface was very reactive during the storm over the weekend, and still has the potential to produce further avalanches with additional load from new snow or wind, or in response to human triggers. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have buried touchy surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo has become less likely to trigger, although a recent avalanche that occurred on this layer near Rossland indicates this layer should remain on our radar on steep, smooth terrain at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Generally light amounts of snow have fallen in the last few days. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into thin wind slabs in exposed lee areas. Below the recent storm snow you may find a layer of surface hoar. Below this, about 20cm of settled snow overlies a thick hard supportive rain crust that extends from the valley to alpine elevations. The crust is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above the recent rain line poorly bonded crusts, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers. Professionals are still concerned with a buried crust from November, down 50-70 cm, that could be triggered by large loads. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light to moderate snow transport at ridge top has been helping the windslabs build. While immediate lee areas are the most likely places to find the slabs, we can expect these slabs to start creeping down further and further from the ridges. Open areas at treeline will likely have these slabs as well. Aside from these new slabs, it is business as usual with the deeper crusts. The Nov 6th has the most potential for significant avalanches due to its deeper position (60-90cm's down). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 60 cm at mountaintop, 40 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 10 cm at low elevation (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations. That said, the initially moist snow that was deposited during the last storm has frozen solid forming a crust and essentially &quot;locking&quot; the snowpack in place. Below treeline, there is not enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The weekend storm slab is between 20-40 cm deep. Very strong winds have transported snow in the alpine and at treeline into pockets of windslab that may not be well bonded to the old surfaces. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Anywhere from 20-60cm of recent storm snow overlies a touchy layer of buried surface hoar, which sits on a crust below about 2100m. Winds from the north-west through south-west have created wind slabs, which are very reactive where they overlie the buried surface hoar. A lower layer of surface hoar is also reactive at the northern end of the range, buried down about 40cm. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In higher snow areas, close to 50cm of recent high density storm snow is covering a layer of surface hoar that lies above a rain crust. Moderate winds and warming have added cohesion to the slab increasing its potential to propagate over wider distances. I'd maintain a cautious approach for some time as the buried surface hoar is suspected to be widespread in the Lizard Range, and possibly into other parts of the region. The rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The weekend storm slab is typically 40-50 cm thick and sits above the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer. This layer extends at least up to treeline and possibly lower parts of the alpine. Strong winds over the weekend created wind slabs which may still be a concern and upcoming strong winds will create new wind slabs which will likely be touchy. The November 28th rain crust may still be exposed in some areas due to the stripping effect of the strong Southwest winds, or it may be deeply buried down 100-150 cm from wind loading, or anywhere in between in sheltered areas. The new storm brought some snow to below treeline terrain, but it still looks like only the upper part of this elevation band has enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A storm slab developed over the weekend that is about 50-70 cm thick at higher elevations. Strong Southwest winds have transported snow into windslabs that may be about 100 cm thick. Rain up to about 800-900 metres elevation may have resulted in loose wet avalanches where that rain fell on snow from earlier in the storm. Cornices are expected to be large and fragile due to new rapid growth. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 20-70 cm of storm snow has built up and been shifted by winds. It rests on a touchy layer of large surface hoar crystals. Below around 2100m, this surface hoar sits on a hard rain crust. Above 2100m the surface hoar sits on well settled and faceted snow. This interface is highly reactive (see avalanche summary). A thick rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snowfall is sitting on the storm snow from the weekend which is typically 30-60 cm deep and sits above the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer. The slab tends to be thinner in the north of the region. The crust typically extends to around 2200m elevation and the surface hoar that sits above is typically 2-5mm where it exists. In some areas, the new snow may be well bonded to this layer but in other areas the layer remains highly reactive so some local investigating may be required. Strong forecast winds on Tuesday/Wednesday morning are likely forming touchy new wind slabs. The November crust is deeply buried near the ground and while triggering this layer is generally unlikely, the likelihood of triggering does increase during the storm with the additional weight of the new snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-15 cm, accompanied by moderate-strong SW winds will add additional load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 30-60 cm above a touchy surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been reacting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will blanket the region and be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in locations that has seen wind effect. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow 15-30 cm, accompanied by moderate-strong SW winds will add additional load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-90 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been reacting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will blanket the region and be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in locations that has seen wind effect. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2400 m. This crust/surface hoar interface was very reactive during the storm over the weekend, and still has the potential to produce further avalanches with additional load from new snow or wind, or in response to human triggers. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have buried touchy surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo has become less likely to trigger, although a recent avalanche that occurred on this layer near Rossland indicates this layer should remain on our radar on steep, smooth terrain at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Generally light amounts of snow have fallen in the last few days. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into wind slabs in exposed lee areas. Around 30 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas)  you are likely to find a crust that may have surface hoar on top of it. The crust is reported to extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m; the surface hoar was reported to be most reactive on shady aspects around treeline and just below, between around 1600 m and 1900 m. Where the crust exists, it is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The flurries expected last night never materialized. According to our weather stations, there was no new snow. Despite that, the alpine ridges will still have windslabs in specific areas that are touchy to human triggering. There has not been a lot of change in the snowpack as a whole. The basic structure is a dense layer sitting in top of a rotten, weak base (the Nov 6th crust and/or the Nov 24th facets). The depth of the the Nov 6th varies from area to area, but generally it is down 70-90 at treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 60 cm at mountaintop, 40 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 10 cm at low elevation (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations. That said, the initially moist snow that was deposited during the last storm has frozen solid forming a crust and essentially &quot;locking&quot; the snowpack in place. Below treeline, there is not enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snowfall is adding to the weekend storm slab which is typically between 20-40 cm thick. Very strong winds have transported snow in the alpine and at treeline into pockets of windslab that may not be well bonded to the old surfaces. Below the new snow you'll likely find wind-scoured surfaces and old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. I'd use extra caution around steep, unsupported high elevation terrain as avalanches at this interface could propagate over wide distances.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow 10-25 cm, accompanied by moderate-strong SW winds will add additional load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-80 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December.  A lower layer of surface hoar is also reactive at the northern end of the range, buried down about 40cm.Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been reacting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will blanket the region and be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in locations that has seen wind effect. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50cm of recent high density storm snow is covering a layer of surface hoar that lies above a rain crust. Moderate winds and warming have added cohesion to the slab increasing its potential to propagate over wider distances. I'd maintain a cautious approach for some time as the buried surface hoar is suspected to be widespread in the Lizard Range, and possibly into other parts of the region. The rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The new snowfall is sitting on the storm snow from the weekend which is typically 40-60 cm deep and sits above the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer. This layer extends at least up to treeline and possibly lower parts of the alpine. Strong winds over the weekend created wind slabs which may still be a concern and current strong winds will create new wind slabs which will likely be touchy. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The November crust is deeply buried near the ground and while triggering this layer is generally unlikely, the likelihood of triggering does increase during the storm with the additional weight of the new snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow is adding to the storm slab that developed over the weekend which is about 50-70 cm thick at higher elevations. Strong Southwest winds have transported snow into windslabs that may be about 100 cm thick. Cornices are expected to be large and fragile due to new rapid growth. Deeper in the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer may still exist. Avalanches at this interface have become unlikely, although the consequences of a release remain high. This layer may be more sensitive to triggering in steep, unsupported high alpine terrain, or in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Forecast new snow 10-25 cm, accompanied by moderate-strong SW winds will add increased load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-90 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been reacting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will blanket the region and be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in locations that has seen wind effect. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may be reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm slab sits above the touchy mid-December surface hoar layer. In the north of the region the slab is around 30-40cm thick and in the south it is 50-80cm. The surface hoar appears to be quite reactive at treeline and possibly into the lower parts to the alpine, especially where it was sheltered from wind. About 10cm below the surface hoar layer is a thick rain crust the extends to around ridgetop elevation. Strong SW winds have created wind slabs in exposed alpine terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow up to 10 cm fell Tuesday night with light- moderate southwest winds adding more load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-80 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and smaller avalanches running on the surface hoar may act as a trigger.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-30 cm fell Tuesday night, with southern locations seeing the higher amounts. Moderate SW winds accompanied the snowfall adding more load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-90 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is still reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30 - 70cm of recent storm snow overlies a prominent surface hoar layer above a thick rain crust that extends as high as 2400 m. This crust/surface hoar interface was very reactive during the storm over the weekend, and still has the potential to produce further avalanches with additional load from new snow or wind, or in response to human triggers. High elevation north aspect slopes do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have buried touchy surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo has become less likely to trigger, although a recent avalanche that occurred on this layer near Rossland indicates this layer should remain on our radar on steep, smooth terrain at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to Tuesday nights 15 - 20 cm, generally light amounts of snow have fallen in the last few days. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into wind slabs in exposed lee areas. 30 - 50 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you are likely to find a crust that may have surface hoar on top of it. The crust is reported to extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m; the surface hoar was reported to be most reactive on shady aspects around treeline and just below, between around 1600 m and 1900 m. Where the crust exists, it is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We have had anywhere from 8-16cms os snow in the last 24hrs. For the most part, the strong winds had blown themselves out by the time the snow really started falling. The alpine will have storm slabs and windslabs in immediate lee areas. Treeline still has some isolated windslabs that are likely reactive to human triggers. The long term trouble layers are still out there. Below treeline, the snow depth is 50-90cm with the Nov crust/facets/depth hoar down 70cm on average. Quick profiles today noted that the mid-pack is getting weaker. The Dec 3rd crust and  Dec 18 surface hoar layers are out there, but not a problem with the current load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 60 cm at mountaintop, 40 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 10 cm at low elevation (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations. That said, the initially moist snow that was deposited during the last storm has frozen solid forming a crust and essentially &quot;locking&quot; the snowpack in place. Below treeline, there is not enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Friday, the region has received around 30-50cm of new snow. Strong winds have created wind slabs in exposed terrain and have probably striped the snow off of exposed slopes. Below the new snow you'll likely find old wind-scoured surfaces or old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, weaknesses such as the mid-November crust-facet layer are still of concern. We don't know much about this layer but older reports suggest that it may still be reactive in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-20 cm fell Tuesday night, with southern locations seeing the higher amounts. Moderate SW winds accompanied the snowfall adding more load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 30-80 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may be reactive to light loads in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-80cm of recent storm snow is covering a layer of surface hoar that lies above a rain crust. Moderate winds and warming have added cohesion to the slab increasing its potential to propagate over wider distances. I'd maintain a cautious approach for some time as the buried surface hoar is suspected to be widespread in the Lizard Range, and possibly into other parts of the region. The rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A 40-60 cm storm slab sits above the mid-December surface hoar layer. We don't know a whole lot about the reactivity of the layer yet but appears to be most reactive at treeline in the north of the region. It may be less reactive in the Whistler area. Winds prior to burial likely destroyed the surface hoar in the alpine throughout most of the region. Strong SW winds during the storms created wind slabs which may still be a concern. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 20-30cm of snow fell on Tuesday night which makes over 100cm since Friday. This snow sits on the mid-December rain crust which extends up to about 1400m elevation. At higher elevations this snow sits on heavily wind effected surfaces. Strong SW winds have created wind slabs and cornices which may be a lingering concern. The mid and lower snowpack contains some old crust layers but these layers appear to be well bonded.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-20 cm fell Tuesday night. Moderate SW winds accompanied the snowfall adding more load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-90 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Storm slabs will be very touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and may be reactive to light loads in some locations.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent slab sits above the touchy mid-December surface hoar layer. In the north of the region the slab is around 30-40cm thick and in the south it is 50-80cm. The surface hoar appears to be quite reactive at treeline and possibly into the lower parts to the alpine, especially where it was sheltered from wind. Reports suggest that it is most reactive in the Coquihalla and Allison Pass areas. About 10cm below the surface hoar layer is a thick rain crust the extends to around ridgetop elevation. Strong SW winds have created wind slabs in exposed alpine terrain which may still be a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow up to 10 cm fell Tuesday night with light- moderate southwest winds adding more load to the upper snowpack. This brings storm snow totals 40-80 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this persistent slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs remain touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-30 cm fell Tuesday night. In some parts of the region the new snow is sitting on a thin breakable rime crust, but most concerning is the thick persistent slab (40-90 cm) which is sitting on a very touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will be very touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30 - 70 cm of recent storm snow is consolidating into a slab above a thick rain crust / surface hoar combo that extends as high as 2400 m. Natural activity on this layer has slowed way down but it is now primed for human triggering. High elevation north facing slopes do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo has become less likely to trigger, although a recent avalanche that occurred on this layer near Rossland indicates this layer should remain on our radar on steep, smooth terrain at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to Tuesday nights 15 - 20 cm, generally light amounts of snow have fallen in the last few days. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into wind slabs in exposed lee areas. 30 - 60 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you are likely to find a crust that may have surface hoar on top of it. The crust is reported to extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m; the surface hoar was reported to be most reactive on shady aspects around treeline and just below, between around 1600 m and 1900 m. Where the crust exists, it is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 60 cm at mountaintop, 40 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 10 cm at low elevation (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations. That said, the initially moist snow that was deposited during the last storm has frozen solid forming a crust and essentially &quot;locking&quot; the snowpack in place. Below treeline, there is not enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the last week the region has received around 30-50cm of new snow. Strong winds have created wind slabs in exposed terrain and have probably striped the snow off of exposed slopes. Below the new snow you'll likely find old wind-scoured surfaces or old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and settled storm snow closer to treeline. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer may still be a concern in isolated areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-20 cm fell Tuesday night, with southern locations seeing the higher amounts. This brings storm snow totals 30-70 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. This persistent slab remains touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern and should be kept on your radar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 cm of snow rests on the Christmas Eve Surface Hoar, little is known about the distribution of this layer. Further down the big dragon lurks: 30-80cm of recent storm snow has coalesced into a slab above a persistent weakness consisting of facets/surface hoar on a rain crust. Moderate winds and warming have added cohesion to the slab increasing its potential to propagate over wider distances. I'd maintain a cautious approach for some time as the buried surface hoar is suspected to be widespread in the Lizard Range, and possibly into other parts of the region. The rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">A 40-60 cm persistent slab sits above the mid-December surface hoar layer. This layer appears to have gained strength and stabilized in most of the region but still may be reactive in the drier northeastern parts of the region. Reports suggest that the surface hoar is most prevalent on sheltered north aspect slopes at treeline elevation. Winds prior to burial likely destroyed the surface hoar in the alpine throughout most of the region. Strong SW winds during the storms created wind slabs which may still be a concern. The mid and lower snowpack contain several old crust layers but these have generally been unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Over 1m of snow fell in the last week. This snow sits on the mid-December rain crust which extends up to about 1400m elevation. At higher elevations this snow sits on heavily wind effected surfaces. Strong SW winds have created wind slabs and cornices which may be a lingering concern. The mid and lower snowpack contains some old crust layers but these layers appear to be well bonded.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow 10-20 cm fell Tuesday night. In some parts of the region the new snow is sitting on a thin breakable rime crust, but most concerning is the thick persistent slab (40-90 cm) which is sitting on a very touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust that has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will remain touchy to the weight of a skier/ rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent slab sits above the mid-December surface hoar layer. In the north of the region the slab is around 30-40cm thick and in the south it is 50-80cm. The surface hoar appears to be quite reactive at treeline and possibly into the lower parts to the alpine, especially where it was sheltered from wind. Reports suggest that it is most reactive in the Coquihalla and Allison Pass areas. About 10cm below the surface hoar layer is a thick rain crust the extends to around ridgetop elevation. Strong SW winds have created wind slabs in exposed alpine terrain which may still be a concern.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A cohesive slab (40-80 cm) sits above a touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combination and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will be very touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some parts of the region a thin breakable rime crust exists near the surface. The upper 40-90 cm of storm snow  is slowly consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will be touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30 - 70 cm of snow from the last week is consolidating into a slab above a touchy weak layer formed in mid-December consisting of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This combo is thought to extend as high as 2400 m. This layer will likely remain sensitive to human triggering for the foreseeable future. High elevation north facing slopes likely do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to Tuesday nights 15 - 20 cm, generally light amounts of snow have fallen in the last week. In the alpine, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into wind slabs in exposed lee areas. 30 - 60 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you are likely to find a crust that may have surface hoar on top of it. The crust is reported to extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m; the surface hoar was reported to be most reactive on shady aspects around treeline and just below, between around 1600 m and 1900 m. Where the crust exists, it is effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The Hero's knob area was explored today. Below treeline, the snow pack was generally predictable and in tune with what we've been seeing for the last while: a distinct crust buried with 10cm's of new snow and a solid midpack. Treeline, was a different story all together. The snowpack was a mix of different crusts, windslabs, facets and depth hoar. The general feel was that the snowpack was variable in terms of strength and we had a hard time trusting it. The Dec13th crust was down 30cm's, and reactive(see avalanche observations). Compression tests ranged from easy to moderate with sudden plainer failures. The deeper layers were still reacting the tests, but not until the &quot;hard&quot; range. Snow depths at 2200m were 90-110cm's.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 60 cm at mountaintop, 40 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 10 cm at low elevation (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations. That said, the initially moist snow that was deposited during the last storm has frozen solid forming a crust and essentially &quot;locking&quot; the snowpack in place. Below treeline, there is not enough snow for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the new snow you'll likely find old wind-scoured surfaces or old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and well-settled storm snow in sheltered areas. Last week the region received around 30-50cm of snow. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer may still be a concern in isolated areas. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals 30-70 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and has been acting as the perfect sliding layer. This persistent slab remains touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and has recently been reactive with larger loads (explosives and smaller avalanches) especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 cm of snow rests on the Christmas Eve Surface Hoar, little is known about the distribution of this layer. Further down the big dragon lurks: 30-80cm of recent storm snow has coalesced into a slab above a persistent weakness consisting of facets/surface hoar on a rain crust. Moderate winds and warming have added cohesion to the slab increasing its potential to propagate over wider distances. I'd maintain a cautious approach for some time as the buried surface hoar is suspected to be widespread in the Lizard Range, and possibly into other parts of the region. The rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The snow surface prior to the storm includes wind scouring or old wind slabs in exposed terrain, and well settled storm snow in sheltered areas.  On top of these surfaces is widespread surface hoar layer up to 10mm in size.  40-60cm below this is the mid-December surface hoar layer. This layer appears to have gained strength and stabilized in most of the region but still may be a concern in the northern parts of the region. Reports suggest that the surface hoar is most prevalent on sheltered north aspect slopes at treeline elevation. Winds prior to burial likely destroyed the surface hoar in the alpine throughout most of the region. The mid and lower snowpack contain several old crust layers but these have generally been unreactive.</span><span class="s_17AE1194" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on a well-settled snowpack.  Between Dec 18-24 over 1m of snow fell in many parts of the region.  The instabilities associated these storms appear to have healed but there may be lingering concerns such as old wind slabs or cornices. The new storm snow will come with strong W-NW winds some new wind slab formation can be expected. The mid and lower snowpack contains several old crust layers but these layers appear to be well bonded.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">In some parts of the region the recent snow (up to 20 cm) is sitting on a thin breakable rime crust. Below this 40-90 cm of recent storm snow is consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will be touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing above a layer of buried surface hoar. A deeper layer of surface hoar from mid-December is buried about 60 cm down. The mid-December surface hoar layer is becoming harder to trigger, but snowpack tests are still showing that it has potential for wide propagation. It appears to be most reactive in sheltered treeline locations and may not exist across the entire region. A thick rain crust exists lower in the pack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some new windslab has formed at higher elevations that is 20-40 cm thick, easy to trigger, and may step down to the mid-December surface hoar. The touchy mid-December surface hoar layer is now buried below a 50-90 cm consolidated slab that developed during last weeks storm. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combination and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of light dry new snow has been added to the recent storm slab. In some parts of the region a thin breakable rime crust exists between the new snow and the storm slab. The upper 40-90 cm of storm snow is slowly consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will be touchy to the weight of a skier and rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Light to locally moderate amounts of low density snow have fallen and may have been shifted into wind slabs in high elevation terrain. This new snow overlies recently formed surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30 - 70 cm of snow from the last week is consolidating into a slab above a touchy weak layer formed in mid-December consisting of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This combo is thought to extend as high as 2400 m. This persistent layer will likely remain sensitive to human triggering for the foreseeable future. High elevation north facing slopes likely do not have the rain crust, but are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. On these slopes, deeper facets or buried surface hoar from earlier in the month may also be lurking. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On the surface, up to 30cm of low-density snow exists. In the alpine and at treeline, winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into wind slabs in exposed lee areas. 30 - 60 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you may find a crust that may have surface hoar on top of it. The crust is reported to extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m, while the surface hoar was reported to be most reactive on shady aspects around treeline and just below, between around 1600 m and 1900 m. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, facets, and/or buried surface hoar may still be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No new snow overnight. Between 15 and 30cm of snow overlies the Dec 13th rain crust depending on elevation. Shears persist at this interface in wind affected terrain. This crust disappears above 2200m in most areas. Profile today at 2150m revealed a very dense mid-pack but this isn't the case in all areas. The November rain crust has deteriorated to facets and depth hoar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 80 cm at mountaintop, 50 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 20 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations, and accumulations from Saturday may exist as a wind slab in exposed upper elevation terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm new snow from Friday night may have buried old wind slabs. New wind slabs are likely to form on south to west-facing slopes as winds shift into an outflow pattern. A layer of buried surface hoar down about 30-50 cm appears to be spotty in distribution, but may still be a concern in some areas. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer has become less likely to trigger but is still in the back of our minds.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals 30-70 cm above a very touchy surface hoar layer that was buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this storm slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and has been acting as the perfect sliding layer. This persistent slab remains touchy to the weight of a skier or rider, especially in wind effected areas. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and has recently been reactive with larger loads (explosives and smaller avalanches) especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 cm of new snow overlies surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve, although little is known about the distribution of this freshly buried layer. Further down, the bigger dragon lurks: Up to 80cm of snow sits above a persistent weakness consisting of facets and/or surface hoar on a rain crust. This cohesive slab is much deeper in lee terrain, and has the potential to propagate over wide distances. The buried rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets, and/or buried surface hoar may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_B5B45E27">10-20cm new snow overlies large surface hoar crystals which sit above old wind slabs and other variable surfaces. A deeper layer of surface hoar buried in mid-December (now down 40-70cm) has been gradually gaining strength, but may still be a concern in some areas. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack contain several old crust layers, one of which may have been the failure layer for a recent burial (see avalanche summary).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30cm new snow from Friday night may have buried old wind slabs. New wind slabs are likely to form on south to west-facing slopes as we shift into an outflow wind pattern. The mid and lower snowpack are generally well-settled. Several old crust layers exist but these appear to be well bonded.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">In some parts of the region the recent snow (up to 20 cm) is sitting on a thin breakable rime crust. Below this 40-90 cm of recent storm snow is consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs will be touchy to the weight of a skier or rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing above a layer of buried surface hoar. A deeper layer of surface hoar from mid-December is buried about 60 cm down. The mid-December surface hoar layer is becoming harder to trigger, but snowpack tests are still showing that it has potential for wide propagation. It appears to be most reactive in sheltered treeline locations and may not exist across the entire region. A thick rain crust exists lower in the pack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some new windslab has formed at higher elevations that is 20-40 cm thick, easy to trigger, and may step down to the mid-December surface hoar. The touchy mid-December surface hoar layer is now buried below a 50-90 cm consolidated slab that developed during last weeks storm. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combination and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of light dry new snow has been added to the recent storm slab. In some parts of the region a thin breakable rime crust exists between the new snow and the storm slab. The upper 40-90 cm of storm snow is slowly consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo and acting as a perfect sliding layer. Persistent slabs may be touchy to the weight of a skier or rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 25cm of low density snow fell over the last few days. This new snow, which overlies recently formed surface hoar, may have been shifted into fresh wind slabs in high elevation terrain.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 70 cm of snow from last week has consolidated into a slab above a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent layer continues to produce whumpfing and sudden snowpack tests, and will likely remain sensitive to human triggering for the foreseeable future. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On the surface, up to 30cm of low-density snow exists. In the alpine and at treeline, strong to locally extreme winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into large and reactive wind slabs in exposed lee areas. 50 - 70 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you may find a crust which formed in December. The crust, which may have surface hoar on top of it, may extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not too much is changing out there.  There is a prominent rain crust in the upper snowpack knows as the Dec 13th crust.  Easy-Moderate sheers are persisting on the top of this crust on a thin layer of facets or isolated surface hoar. The mid pack seems really variable depending on where we are.  In some areas its been good and well settled and in others weak and facetted.  We find ourselves digging and poking around a lot seeking out these differences as we try to gain confidence.  At the base of the snowpack its the usual rockies garbage.  Weak and facetted depth hoar and facets.  The nov crust is showing signs of breaking down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 80 cm at mountaintop, 50 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 20 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations, and accumulations from Saturday may exist as a wind slab in exposed upper elevation terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm new snow from Friday night is likely to form new wind slabs on south to west-facing slopes as winds shift into an outflow pattern. Older wind slabs from previous westerly winds are buried underneath. A layer of buried surface hoar down about 30-50 cm appears to be spotty in distribution, but may still be a concern in some areas. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer has become less likely to trigger, but is still in the back of our minds.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some areas may have a thin layer of surface hoar that was buried on December 27th and now has about 5-10 cm of light dry snow above. The slab above the persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that was buried in mid-December is now 40-60 cm thick and gives mostly sudden planar results in snow profile tests when moderate forces are applied. The persistent slab problem is widespread across the region and is not expected to improve it's bonding properties during the forecast dry and cold weather. Shallow snowpack areas continue to have concerns for a deeper early season crust/facet layer down more than a metre that may collapse under large loads or from weak trigger spots around exposed rocks and/or trees.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent snowfall overlies surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve, although little is known about the distribution of this freshly buried layer. Recent winds have been strong and much of snow was likely redistributed into wind slabs in exposed terrain. Up to 90cm of snow sits above a persistent weakness consisting of facets and/or surface hoar on a rain crust. This cohesive slab is much deeper in lee terrain, and has the potential to propagate over wide distances. The buried rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive, effectively bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. At very high elevations, where the crust did not form, deeper layers of facets may be susceptible to triggers, although nothing was reported to have released on deeper layers during the most recent avalanche cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_B5B45E27">10-20 cm recent snow is expected to be shifted into wind slabs on lee terrain features. The recent snow overlies variable surfaces including large surface hoar crystals, old wind slabs and wind-scoured surfaces. A deeper layer of surface hoar buried in mid-December (now down 40-70cm) has been gradually gaining strength, but may still be a concern in some areas. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack contain several old crust layers, one of which may have been the failure layer for a recent burial (see avalanche summary).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm new snow from Friday night is likely to form new wind slabs on south through to west-facing slopes as the winds shift into an outflow pattern. The mid and lower snowpack are generally well-settled. Several old crust layers exist but these appear to be well bonded.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">In some parts of the region the recent snow (up to 20 cm) is sitting on a thin breakable rime crust. Below this 40-90 cm of recent storm snow is consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo that is acting as a smooth sliding layer. Persistent slabs may be touchy to the weight of a skier or rider, especially in wind effected areas where the slab is stiffer. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing above a layer of buried surface hoar. A deeper layer of surface hoar from mid-December is buried about 60 cm down. The mid-December surface hoar layer is becoming harder to trigger, but snowpack tests are still showing that it has potential for wide propagation. It appears to be most reactive in sheltered treeline locations and may not exist across the entire region. A thick rain crust exists lower in the pack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some new windslab has formed at higher elevations that is 20-40 cm thick, easy to trigger, and may step down to the mid-December surface hoar. The touchy mid-December surface hoar layer is now buried below a 50-90 cm consolidated slab that developed during last weeks storm. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combination and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is 10-20 cm of light dry snow that has been transported by Northerly winds into pockets of windsalb in the alpine and at treeline. Below the new snow is the recent storm slab that is 40-90 cm thick and is sitting on a persistent weak layer of crust and surface hoar. The crust extends up to about 2100 metres and seems to be the most reactive at treeline or in the upper below treeline elevations where the surface hoar was well preserved. Fractures have been propagating long distances on this layer and have allowed for remote triggering from adjacent terrain. Deeper in the snowpack there is a hard rain crust from November that may have a weak layer of facets at the interface. This November crust has not been reactive, but continues to be a concern for triggering in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 35cm of low density snow fell over the last few days. This new snow, which overlies recently formed surface hoar, has likely been shifted by strong northerly winds into stiff and reactive wind slabs on south-facing terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Up to 90 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This buried snowpack structure was formed in mid-December and remains the primary layer of concern for the region. This widespread persistent weak layer continues to produce whumpfing and sudden snowpack tests, and will likely remain sensitive to human triggering for the foreseeable future. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On the surface, up to 30cm of low-density snow exists. In the alpine and at treeline, strong to locally extreme winds have been conducive to blowing this snow into stiff and reactive wind slabs in exposed lee areas. 50 - 70 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you may find a crust which formed in December. The crust, which may have surface hoar on top of it, may extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses that formed earlier in the season. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Trace to 2cm of new snow in past 24hrs. The Dec 13th rain crust, which exists at 2200m and below, is buried 15 to 30cm depending on elevation. Where wind slab conditions exist this rain crust provides a good sliding layer. The weak basal layers, including the November rain crust, are still a cause for concern. Isolated avalanche activity in the past several days indicate that this layer is still trigger-able. While the probability of triggering the basal layers is low, the consequences of a full depth avalanche is significant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 80 cm at mountaintop, 50 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 20 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations, although recent accumulations have likely gained considerable strength. If you've been playing in the North Shore Mountains, we'd love to hear what you've observed. You can now submit observations to our new Mountain Information Network. Simply click the &quot;Avalanche Information&quot; tab on our home page, and select &quot;Submit Information&quot;. Sharing your observations will make everybody safer!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow from Friday night is likely being formed into fresh wind slabs on lee slopes as winds shift into an outflow pattern. Older wind slabs from previous westerly winds are buried underneath. A layer of buried surface hoar down about 30-50 cm appears to be spotty in distribution, but may still be a concern in some areas. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer has become less likely to trigger, but is still in the back of our minds.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some areas may have a thin layer of surface hoar that was buried on December 27th and now has about 5-10 cm of light dry snow above. The slab above the persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that was buried in mid-December is now 40-60 cm thick and gives mostly sudden planar results in snow profile tests when moderate forces are applied. The persistent slab problem is widespread across the region and is not expected to improve it's bonding properties during the forecast dry and cold weather. Shallow snowpack areas continue to have concerns for a deeper early season crust/facet layer down more than a metre that may collapse under large loads or from weak trigger spots around exposed rocks and/or trees.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent snowfall overlies surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve, although little is known about the distribution of this freshly buried layer. Recent winds have been strong and much of the new snow was likely redistributed into wind slabs in exposed terrain. Up to 90cm of snow sits above a persistent weakness consisting of facets and/or surface hoar on a rain crust. This cohesive slab is much deeper in lee terrain, and has the potential to propagate over wide distances. The buried rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have become dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_B5B45E27">10-20 cm of recent snow is likely being shifted into thin, fresh and sensitive wind slabs on lee terrain features. The recent snow overlies variable surfaces including large surface hoar crystals, old wind slabs and wind-scoured surfaces. A deeper layer of surface hoar buried in mid-December (now down 40-70cm) has been gradually gaining strength, but may still be a concern in some areas. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack contain several old crust layers, one of which may have been the failure layer for a recent burial (see avalanche summary).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow from Friday night is being formed into new wind slabs on lee aspects as the winds shift into an outflow pattern. The mid and lower snowpack are generally well-settled. Several old crust layers exist but these appear to be well bonded.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is 20-30 cm of light dry snow available for wind transport by moderate to strong Northerly winds. In some parts of the region this recent snow is sitting on a thin breakable rime crust. Below this 40-90 cm of recent storm snow is consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo that is acting as a smooth sliding layer. Persistent slabs may be touchy to the weight of a skier or rider, especially in sheltered terrain at treeline where the surface hoar was well preserved. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left due north slopes mostly wind pressed, some may even be scoured down to the mid Dec. crust. Slabs up to a meter thick can be found on south facing alpine features and some degree of cross loading exists on everything but the most wind sheltered terrain..</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three primary layers of concern: </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Late Dec SH (Surface Hoar): Previously covered by 5 to 15cm and present on all aspects/elevations, distribution post wind event is certainly different, but for the time being I would presume that every slope has it until proven otherwise.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mid-Dec SH: Down 60 to 80 cm, it is becoming harder to trigger, but snowpack tests are still showing that it has potential for wide propagation. It appears to be most reactive in sheltered treeline locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early Dec Crust: Down 40 to 100cm and reported to be on all aspects/elevations. In some places its just a crust, other spots feature mixed forms, small grained facets and/or even the above mentioned surface hoar on top of the crust. My gut says that surface avalanches in motion could step down to this crust. The mid pack below this crust contains several old crust layers, but they seem to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extensive new windslab development over the last two days in the alpine, at treeline, and also in open areas below treeline as a result of strong Northerly winds. The new windslab may be easy to trigger, and may step down to the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. The touchy mid-December surface hoar layer is now buried below a 50-90 cm consolidated slab that developed during last weeks storm. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combination and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than 100 cm down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong Northerly winds developed extensive windslab in the alpine, at treeline, and in open areas in the upper below treeline.  There may be a surface hoar layer that was buried on December 27th or a thin rhimed crust (from a freezing drizzle event) below the new windslab. Below the new snow is the recent storm slab that is 40-90 cm thick and is sitting on a persistent weak layer of crust and surface hoar. The crust extends up to about 2100 metres and seems to be the most reactive at treeline or in the upper below treeline elevations where the surface hoar was well preserved. Fractures have been propagating long distances on this layer and have allowed for remote triggering from adjacent terrain. Deeper in the snowpack there is a hard rain crust from November that may have a weak layer of facets at the interface. This November crust has not been reactive, but continues to be a concern for triggering in shallow snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A9A7295C">Up to 35 cm of light, low density snow overlies recently formed surface hoar. Strong northerly winds have transported the new snow onto southerly aspects creating stiff and reactive wind slabs. Up to 80 cm below the surface, a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust exists. This widespread weak persistent layer consisting of surface hoar/ facets and a hard rain crust was buried mid-December and continues to produce whumpfing and sudden planar characteristics in snowpack tests. It will likely remain sensitive to human triggering for the foreseeable future. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30cm of low-density snow exists on the surface. In the alpine and at treeline, strong to locally extreme winds have transported this snow into stiff and reactive wind slabs in exposed lee areas. Up to 70 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you may find a crust which formed in December. The crust, which may have surface hoar on top of it, may extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggering especially in thinner snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow profile today at 2200m showed total snow depth of 104cm. Between 25 and 30cm of snow sit on the Dec 13th rain crust. This interface is producing easy to moderate shears, especially where the overlying snow has been wind affected. The mid-pack is well settled and strong, but the basal layers are weak. Between 20 and 30cm of depth hoar and facets sit at the base of the snowpack. Compression tests are failing in the moderate to hard range on the basal weak layers. The November rain crust has now completely faceted out in most areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 80 cm at mountaintop, 50 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 20 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). There is now sufficient snow for avalanches to occur on open slopes at treeline elevations, although recent accumulations have likely gained considerable strength. If you've been playing in the North Shore Mountains, we'd love to hear what you've observed. You can now submit observations to our new Mountain Information Network. Simply click the &quot;Avalanche Information&quot; tab on our home page, and select &quot;Submit Information&quot;. Sharing your observations will make everybody safer!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left a variety of wind affected conditions in their wake in wind exposed terrain at all elevations. You will likely find wind pressed snow on north aspects, thicker wind slabs on south facing features and some degree of crossloading on everything else.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of buried surface hoar down about 30-50 cm appears to be spotty in distribution, but may still be a concern in some areas. Near the base of the snowpack, the mid-November crust-facet layer has become less likely to trigger, but is still in the back of our minds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Look for a revised snowpack discussion on Wednesday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some areas may have a thin layer of surface hoar that was buried on December 27th and now has about 5-10 cm of light dry snow above. The new snow may have been transported into windslabs by strong Northerly or moderate Southerly winds. The slab above the persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that was buried in mid-December is now 40-60 cm thick and gives mostly sudden planar results in snow profile tests when moderate forces are applied. The persistent slab problem is widespread across the region and is not expected to improve it's bonding properties during the forecast dry and cold weather. Shallow snowpack areas continue to have concerns for a deeper early season crust/facet layer down more than a metre that may collapse under large loads or from weak trigger spots around exposed rocks and/or trees.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of low density snow overlies surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve. Recent winds have been strong and much of the new snow has been redistributed into touchy wind slabs on leeward slopes. Up to 90 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a weak layer of surface hoar and or facets sitting on a firm rain crust. The buried rain crust extends into alpine elevations and is hard and supportive and this cohesive slab has the potential to propagate over wide distances. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have become dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left due north slopes mostly wind pressed, some may even be scoured down to the mid Dec. crust. Wind slabs up to a meter deep can be found on south facing alpine features and some degree of cross loading exists on everything but the most wind sheltered terrain..</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three primary layers of concern: </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Late Dec SH (Surface Hoar): Previously covered by 5 to 15cm and present on all aspects/elevations, distribution post wind event is certainly different, but for the time being I would presume that every slope has it until proven otherwise.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mid-Dec SH: Probably a player in very specific areas, most notably near open water below treeline. BUT, its a player in the South Coast Inland so look for it down 40 to 80 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early Dec Crust: Down 40 to 100cm and reported to be on all aspects/elevations. In some places its just a crust, other spots feature mixed forms, small grained facets and even the above mentioned surface hoar on top of the crust. My gut says that surface avalanches in motion could step down to this crust. The mid pack below this crust contains several old crust layers, but they seem to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left a variety of wind affected conditions in their wake in wind exposed terrain at all elevations. You will likely find wind pressed snow on north aspects, thicker wind slabs on south facing features and some degree of crossloading on everything else.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are generally well-settled. Several old crust layers exist but these appear to be well bonded.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Look for a revised snowpack discussion on Wednesday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Strong Northerly winds&nbsp; developed extensive windslab in the alpine, at treeline, and in open areas in the upper below treeline.&nbsp; There may be a surface hoar layer that was buried on December 27th or a thin rhimed crust (from a freezing drizzle event) below the new windslab. Further down there is 40-90 cm of recent storm snow that is consolidating into a slab above a touchy surface hoar layer buried mid-December. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combo that is acting as a smooth sliding layer. Persistent slabs may be touchy to the weight of a skier or rider, especially in sheltered terrain at treeline where the surface hoar was well preserved. Deeper in the snowpack is a hard rain crust with facets from early November. This is buried over 1 m down and is currently unreactive but triggering from shallow rocky, unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left due north slopes mostly wind pressed, some are even scoured down to the mid Dec crust. Hard wind slabs up to a meter deep can be found on south facing alpine features and some degree of cross loading exists on everything but the most wind sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three primary layers of concern: </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Late Dec SH (Surface Hoar): Previously covered by 5 to 15cm and present on all aspects/elevations, distribution post wind event is certainly different, but for the time being I would presume that every slope has it until proven otherwise.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mid-Dec SH: Down 60 to 80 cm, it is becoming harder to trigger, but snowpack tests are still showing that it has potential for wide propagation. It appears to be most reactive in sheltered treeline locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early Dec Crust: Down 40 to 100cm and reported to be on all aspects/elevations. In some places its just a crust, other spots feature mixed forms, small grained facets and even the above mentioned surface hoar on top of the crust. My gut says that surface avalanches in motion could step down to this crust. The mid pack below this crust contains several old crust layers, but they seem to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind forecast for Thursday and Friday will add stress to an already volatile snowpack. Storm slabs are expected to hide extensive recent wind slabs which formed at all elevations in response to strong northerly winds. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and may step down to the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. The touchy mid-December surface hoar layer is buried under a consolidated slab, up to a metre down. Below 2100 m this slab sits on a thick, solid crust/ surface hoar combination and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind forecast for Thursday and Friday will add stress to an already volatile snowpack. New snow is expected to hide recent wind slabs which formed in response to strong northerly winds. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. Below 2100 m this surface hoar sits on a thick, solid crust and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Fractures have been propagating long distances and have allowed for remote triggering from adjacent terrain. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of light, low density snow overlies recently formed surface hoar. Strong northerly winds have transported the new snow onto southerly aspects creating stiff and reactive wind slabs. Up to 80 cm below the surface, a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust exists. This widespread weak persistent layer consisting of surface hoar/ facets and a hard rain crust was buried mid-December and continues to produce whumpfing and sudden planar characteristics in snowpack tests. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30cm of low-density snow exists on the surface. In the alpine and at treeline, strong northerly winds have transported this snow into stiff and reactive wind slabs on opposite slopes. Up to 70 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you may find a crust which formed in December. The crust, which may have surface hoar on top of it, may extend into the alpine to at least 2100 m. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggering especially in thinner snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much has changed in the last 24hours. The winds have recently spiked with the arrival of the warm temperatures. Some snow has been redistributed, but it seems this is more pronounced at lower elevations. The persistent layers are still the prominent feature in the snowpack. The Dec 13th rain crust is down 20-30cm's at 2200m. The mid pack is giving us the strength in the snowpack. It is consistently dense and bridging the weaker deep layers. The bottom layers are now one thick layer of facets and depth hoar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent outflow winds have likely formed wind slabs at ridgetop locations on lee slopes and behind terrain features. Surface snow likely became moist above with the upper elevation temperature inversion on Wednesday. Late thursday the freezing levels should fall back to valley bottom which will create a hard crust at these elevations. Reported snow depths are approximately 100 cm at mountaintop, 60 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Total snowpack depth is around 80 to 90cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 29 left a variety of wind affected conditions in their wake in wind exposed terrain at all elevations. Some windward aspects and ridgelines were scoured down to bare ground. North facing slopes that still have snow are likely wind pressed. The thickest and likely hardest slabs should be found on south facing features and some degree of crossloading is likely found everywhere else.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of buried surface hoar down about 30-50 cm appears to be spotty in distribution, but is still a concern.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Something of a sleeping giant can be found down near the bottom of the snowpack where a crust facet combo that was formed in mid-November lies dormant. This layer is producing variable results in test profiles, some sudden, some not. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some areas may have a thin layer of surface hoar that was buried on December 27th and now has about 5-10 cm of light dry snow above. The recent snow may have been transported into wind slabs by strong northerly or moderate southerly winds. A persistent surface hoar/crust weak layer from mid-December is now down about 40-60cm. Recent snowpack tests show moderate pops type results here, indicating the potential for avalanches to propagate on this layer. The persistent slab problem is widespread across the region and is not expected to improve quickly. A deeper crust/facet layer which formed early in the season may still be triggerable from thin or rocky snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent snowfall overlies surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve, although little is known about the distribution of this freshly buried layer, snowpack tests are indicating moderate – hard sudden planar results. Recent moderate winds from the northwest have redistributed surface snow into wind slabs on opposite slopes. Up to 90cm of snow sits above a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar on a rain crust. This was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations.  At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have become dormant for the time being.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left due north slopes mostly wind pressed, some are even scoured down to the mid Dec. crust. Hard wind slabs up to a meter deep can be found on south facing alpine features and some degree of cross loading exists on everything but the most wind sheltered terrain..</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Three primary layers of concern: </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Late Dec SH (Surface Hoar): Previously covered by 5 to 15cm and present on all aspects/elevations, distribution post wind event is certainly different, but for the time being I would presume that every slope has it until proven otherwise.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mid-Dec SH: Probably a player in very specific areas, most notably near open water below treeline. BUT, its a player in the South Coast Inland so look for it down 40 to 80 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early Dec Crust: Down 40 to 100cm and reported to be on all aspects/elevations. In some places its just a crust, other spots feature mixed forms, small grained facets and even the above mentioned surface hoar on top of the crust. My gut says that surface avalanches in motion could step down to this crust. The mid pack below this crust contains several old crust layers, but they seem to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds on Dec. 28 left a variety of wind affected conditions in their wake in wind exposed terrain at all elevations. You will likely find wind pressed snow on north aspects, thicker wind slabs on south facing features and some degree of crossloading on everything else.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At and below treeline widespread surface hoar has been reported which will likely be a player with the incoming storm system.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid December crust can be found down around 30 to 80 cm and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid November crust down 70 to 175 is gaining strength but is still reactive in test profiles. It is likely trending towards dormancy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind forecast for Thursday and Friday will add stress to an already volatile snowpack. New snow is expected to hide recent wind slabs which formed in response to strong northerly winds. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. Below 2100 m this surface hoar sits on a thick, solid crust and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive, however; triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In open alpine terrain you will find heavily wind affected surfaces with hard and soft wind slabs on south and west aspects and scoured surfaces or dense wind-pressed snow on windward slopes. Steep south facing slopes may also be going through a melt-freeze cycle. In sheltered areas at and below treeline you might find dry faceting powder with surface hoar (SH) growing above. A layer of SH buried last weekend is now down 10-20 cm and was reported to be widespread - one to watch when the snow returns. The mid-December SH layer may still be lurking in specific areas (sheltered, shady, near open water sources) down 40-70 cm. Below 2000 m and buried 60-100 cm deep you might find a crust with facets or mixed forms above or below. One recent snowpack test gave a hard pops result on this layer, meaning its probably difficult to trigger but if triggered it could produce large deep slabs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind forecast for Friday will add stress to a snowpack that varies across the region, but is volatile in some places. New snow is expected to hide wind slabs which formed recently in response to strong northerly winds. Storm slabs or wind slabs may overload the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. This layer is buried under a consolidated slab, anywhere from 15-80 cm deep. Below 2100 m, the buried surface hoar sits on a thick, solid crust and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. In the worst affected areas, this layer sports well preserved 10-50 mm crystals, especially within a few hundred metres of treeline. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow may hide wind slabs which formed recently in response to strong northerly winds. The primary concern is the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. Below 2100 m this surface hoar sits on a thick, solid crust and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. Fractures have been propagating long distances and have allowed for remote triggering from adjacent terrain. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Snow surfaces are variable with northerly, wind exposed aspects showing firm wind press or scoured exposed crust, and sheltered locations have up to 35 cm of light, low density, faceted snow above a recently formed surface hoar. Strong northerly winds have transported the new snow onto southerly aspects creating stiff and reactive wind slabs. Up to 80 cm below the surface, a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust exists. This widespread persistent weak layer comprising of surface hoar/ facets and a hard rain crust was buried mid-December and continues to produce whumpfing and sudden planar characteristics in snowpack tests. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are variable with northerly, wind exposed aspects showing firm wind press or scoured exposed crust, and more sheltered locations have up to 30 cm of light, low density, faceted snow. In the alpine and at treeline, strong northerly winds have transported this snow into stiff and reactive wind slabs on opposite slopes. Up to 70 cm below the surface (more in wind affected areas) you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. At higher elevations this crust has facets (sugary) snow above it and well-preserved surface hoar up to 10 mm in size in sheltered locations at treeline and below. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggering, especially in thinner snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much has changed in the last while. The winds have recently spiked with the arrival of the warm temperatures. Some snow has been redistributed, but it seems this is more pronounced at lower elevations. The persistent layers are still the prominent feature in the snowpack. The Dec 13th rain crust is down 20-30cm's at 2200m. The mid pack is giving us the strength in the snowpack. It is consistently dense and bridging the weaker deep layers. The bottom layers are now one thick layer of facets and depth hoar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent strong outflow winds have likely formed wind slabs at ridgetop locations on lee slopes and behind terrain features. A firm melt-freeze crust  exists at treeline elevations from the previous warm temperatures and sunshine. The new snow (light amounts) will likely have a poor bond to the melt freeze crust. Reported snow depths are approximately 100 cm at mountaintop, 60 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds earlier this week left a variety of wind affected conditions in exposed terrain at all elevations. Some windward aspects and ridge lines were scoured down to bare ground. North facing slopes that still have snow are likely wind pressed. The thickest and likely hardest slabs should be found on south facing features and some degree of cross-loading is likely found everywhere else. A layer of buried surface hoar, down 30-50 cm, appears to be spotty in distribution but is still a concern. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was formed in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable wind slabs exist in some areas. A spotty thin layer of surface hoar was buried on December 27th by about 5-10 cm of light dry snow. As more snow accumulates, this interface could become one to watch. A persistent surface hoar/crust weak layer from mid-December is now down about 40-60cm. Recent snowpack tests show moderate pops-type results here, indicating the potential for avalanches to propagate on this layer. This persistent slab problem is reasonably widespread across the region and is not expected to improve quickly. A deeper crust/facet layer which formed early in the season may still be triggerable from thin or rocky snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some places, up to 50 cm of recent snowfall sits on surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve, although little is known about the distribution of this freshly buried layer, snowpack tests are indicating moderate – hard sudden planar results and professionals are keeping their eye on it. Recent moderate winds from the northwest have redistributed surface snow into wind slabs on opposite slopes. With winds switching to the southwest-west this will likely add some complexity with the new loading pattern. Up to 90cm of snow sits above a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar on or just above (10 cm) a rain crust. This was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations.  At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have become dormant for the time being.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In open alpine terrain you will find heavily wind affected surfaces with hard and soft wind slabs on south and west aspects and scoured surfaces or dense wind-pressed snow on windward slopes. Steep south facing slopes may also be going through a melt-freeze cycle. In sheltered areas at and below treeline you might find dry faceting powder with surface hoar (SH) growing above. A layer of SH buried last weekend is now down 10-20 cm and was reported to be widespread - one to watch when the snow returns. The mid-December SH layer may still be lurking in specific areas (sheltered, shady, near open water sources) down 40-70 cm. Below 2000 m and buried 60-80 cm deep you might find a crust with facets or mixed forms above or below. One recent snowpack test gave a hard pops result on this layer, meaning its probably difficult to trigger but if triggered it could produce large deep slabs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds earlier this week left a variety of wind affected conditions in exposed terrain at all elevations. You will likely find wind pressed snow on north aspects, thicker wind slabs on south facing features and some degree of cross-loading on everything else. At and below treeline widespread surface hoar was reported, which may become an issue once its buried by new snow. Some areas experienced light rain or freezing rain early on New Years Day which could lessen or eliminate this problem. The mid December crust can be found down around 30 to 80 cm and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The mid November crust down 70 to 175 is gaining strength but is still reactive in test profiles. It is likely trending towards dormancy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind forecast for Friday will add stress to an already volatile snowpack. New snow is expected to hide wind slabs which formed recently in response to strong northerly winds. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to the persistent weak layer of mid-December surface hoar. Below 2100 m this surface hoar sits on a thick, solid crust and has been acting as a perfect sliding layer. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The current snow surface varies significantly and includes wind affected surfaces in exposed alpine and treeline terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, dry faceted powder in sheltered shady terrain, and pockets of surface hoar (mainly below treeline). Older wind slabs are still lurking on south facing slopes near ridge tops from last weeks outflow winds. The mid-December SH layer may be present in specific areas (sheltered, shady, near open water sources) down 40-70 cm. On Thursday one observer found this layer down 55 cm on a N aspect at 1700 m. Snowpack tests gave easy or moderate &quot;drops&quot; results. Below 2000 m and buried 60-80 cm deep you might find a crust with facets or mixed forms above or below. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Uneven distribution of new snow amounts and temperatures within this region with the storm that ended on Friday have likely further enhanced snowpack variability in this region. 20-25 cm new snow fell in the north, 10-15 cm in the south. Pockets of warm air in the north have likely made the snow dense in some places, while predominately westerly winds have set up fresh wind slabs in exposed lee areas. The persistent mid-December crust/surface hoar layer appears prominent in the south of the region and is still reported to fail easily during snowpack tests. It is most prominent at within a few hundred metres of treeline elecation. On average it can be found around 60 cm below the surface, although it has variably been reported anywhere from 30-90 cm below the surface. In the north of the region, this layer is present, although reported to be harder to trigger. Further down, a hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">Up to 15 cm fell in the north of the region, while the south saw only a few cm during the storm that ended Friday. The new snow has been added to an already volatile snowpack. Winds were sufficiently strong to set up new wind slabs in exposed areas mostly on east-facing aspects, but previous wind slabs on south-facing aspects remain a concern and may now be buried by a small amount of new snow, making them harder to spot. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to a persistent weak layer from mid-December that comprises of a crust with well-preserved surface hoar crystals sitting above it. It is most prevalent between 1700 m and 2200 m and has been the weak layer responsible for a large number of natural and human-triggered avalanches over the last several days. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are quite variable with new snow up to 5cm and winds blowing from all directions. Wind exposed aspects are showing firm wind press or scoured exposed crust, and sheltered locations have up to 35 cm of light, low density, faceted snow above a recently formed surface hoar. Stiff and reactive wind slabs exist primarily on southerly aspects. Up to 80 cm below the surface, a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weak layer comprising of surface hoar/ facets and a hard rain crust was buried mid-December and continues to produce whumpfing and sudden planar characteristics in snowpack tests. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span><span class="s_17AE1194" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are variable with northerly, wind exposed aspects showing firm wind press or scoured exposed crust, and more sheltered locations have up to 30 cm of low density, faceted snow. In the alpine and at treeline, strong northerly winds have transported this snow into stiff and reactive wind slabs on opposite slopes. Up to 70 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. At higher elevations this crust has facets (sugary) snow above it and well-preserved surface hoar up to 10 mm in size in sheltered locations at treeline and below. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggering, especially in thinner snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20-30cm overlying the 1213cr up to 22-2300m.  Below this the midpack is variable depending upon location.  Some areas its thin and facetted and in some areas its supportive and strong.  Word of the day is variability.  The Nov cr is at the base but its facetting out slowly. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent strong outflow winds have likely formed small pockets of wind slab at ridgetop locations on lee slopes and behind terrain features. A firm melt-freeze crust exists at treeline and below. The new snow (light amounts) will likely have a poor bond to the melt freeze crust. Reported snow depths are approximately 100 cm at mountaintop, 60 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The freezing level spiked to 2000 m in the southernmost part of the region on New Years Day. At higher elevations and northern sections there was around 5-15 cm of new snow. Ridge top winds were reported to be very strong from the W-NW, likely creating hard and soft wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. In northern sections the new snow now covers a potential weak layer of surface hoar. Down 30-50 cm you may find another surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Most of this region only saw light snow accumulations during the storm that ended Friday. However, winds were sufficiently strong for fresh wind slabs to be of concern. Since previous winds were from the north and more recent winds anywhere from southwest to northwest, wind slabs should be suspected on a wide variety of aspects in exposed terrain. A spotty thin layer of surface hoar was buried on December 27th by about 5-10 cm of light dry snow. As more snow accumulates, this interface could become one to watch. Deeper, at about 40-60 cm below the surface, a persistent crust/surface hoar layer from mid-December can be found. Recent snowpack tests show moderate &quot;pops&quot;-type results on this layer, indicating the potential for avalanches to propagate if triggered on this layer. This persistent slab problem is reasonably widespread across the region and is not expected to improve quickly. A deeper crust/facet layer which formed early in the season may still be triggerable from thin or rocky snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extreme northwest winds have likely created new, touchy wind slabs on opposite slopes. With switching winds this will likely add some complexity with the new loading pattern. 30-50 cm of faceted snow sits on surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve, although little is known about the distribution of this buried layer, snowpack tests are indicating moderate hard sudden planar results and professionals are keeping their eye on it. Up to 90cm of snow sits above a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar on or just above (10 cm) a rain crust. This was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have become dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The current snow surface varies significantly and includes wind affected surfaces in exposed alpine and treeline terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, dry faceted powder in sheltered shady terrain, and pockets of surface hoar (mainly below treeline). Older wind slabs are still lurking on south facing slopes near ridge tops from last weeks outflow winds. The mid-December SH layer may be present in specific areas (sheltered, shady, near open water sources) down 40-70 cm. On Thursday one observer found this layer down 55 cm on a N aspect at 1700 m. Snowpack tests gave easy or moderate &quot;drops&quot; results. Below 2000 m and buried 60-80 cm deep you might find a crust with facets or mixed forms above or below. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air invaded with the storm on New Years Day and brought rain or freezing rain up to at least treeline in southern sections, which may have squashed the surface hoar that was reportedly widespread before New Years. Temperatures cooled later in the day leaving 5-10 cm of new snow at lower elevations and around 20-25 cm at and above treeline. Further north (Bear Pass, Ninginsaw) it's more likely that the surface hoar layer is now buried by 15-20 cm of new snow. Strong W-NW winds have probably created fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. Older hard slabs may also be lurking on South and West aspects from previous outflow winds. The mid December crust can be found down around 40 to 80 cm and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The mid November crust down 70 to 175 is gaining strength but is still reactive in test profiles. It is likely trending towards dormancy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm new snow has been added to an already volatile snowpack. Winds were sufficiently strong to set up new wind slabs in exposed areas mostly on east-facing aspects, but previous wind slabs on south-facing aspects remain a concern and may now be buried by a small amount of new snow, making them harder to spot. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to a persistent weak layer from mid-December that comprises of a crust with well-preserved surface hoar crystals sitting above it. It is most prevalent between 1600 m and 2100 m and has been the weak layer responsible for a number of natural and human-triggered avalanches over the last several days. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast snowfall will cover a highly variable snow surface that includes wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. How well the new snow bonds to this surface is the question. Below this we also have to contend with the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are buried between 40 and 80 cm deep on average. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer could be more widespread but also more variable. Reports suggest is could be between 0 and 120 cm deep depending on exposure to wind. Heavy loading in the coming days could trigger these weaknesses creating very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is about 30-50 cm of recent storm snow combined with variable winds that have produced windslabs on all aspects in the alpine and at treeline. Pockets of warm air in the north have likely made the snow dense in some places, while predominately westerly winds have set up fresh wind slabs in exposed lee areas. The persistent mid-December crust/surface hoar layer appears prominent in the south of the region and is still reported to fail easily during snowpack tests. It is most prominent at within a few hundred metres of treeline elevation. On average it can be found around 60 cm below the surface, although it has variably been reported anywhere from 30-90 cm below the surface. In the north of the region, this layer is present, although reported to be harder to trigger. Further down, a hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow has fallen in the past few days combined with moderate winds. Winds were sufficiently strong to set up new wind slabs in exposed areas mostly on east-facing aspects, but previous wind slabs on south-facing aspects remain a concern and may now be buried by a small amount of new snow, making them harder to spot. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to a persistent weak layer from mid-December that comprises of a crust with well-preserved surface hoar crystals sitting above it. It is most prevalent between 1700 m and 2200 m and has been the weak layer responsible for a large number of natural and human-triggered avalanches over the last several days. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of low density snow overlie a variety of snow surfaces. Wind exposed slopes are showing firm wind pressing, or a scoured exposed crust, while sheltered locations have up to 35 cm of light, low density, faceted snow above recently formed surface hoar. Stiff and reactive wind slabs exist primarily on southerly aspects. Up to 80 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weakness was buried mid-December and continues to produce whumpfing and sudden planar characteristics in snowpack tests. Although high elevation slopes may not have the rain crust, they are still reported to have touchy buried surface hoar. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are variable with northerly, wind exposed aspects showing firm wind pressing, or a scoured exposed crust. More sheltered locations have up to 30 cm of low density, faceted snow. In the alpine and at treeline, strong northerly winds have transported this snow into stiff wind slabs on opposite slopes. Up to 70 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. At higher elevations this crust has facets (sugary) snow above it and well-preserved surface hoar up to 10 mm in size in sheltered locations at treeline and below. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggering, especially in thinner snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5 to 10cm of new snow overnight is forming thin wind slabs in Alpine areas. The December rain crust is present below 2250m on all aspects and is still reactive in stability tests. The basal facets are alive and well, and will remain an issue for some time to come.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent strong outflow winds have likely formed small pockets of wind slab at ridgetop locations on lee slopes and behind terrain features. A firm melt-freeze crust exists at treeline and below. The new snow and wind forecast for Sunday will likely have a poor bond to the melt freeze crust. Reported snow depths are approximately 100 cm at mountaintop, 60 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds have been highly variable with strong W-NW winds followed immediately by strong SE-NE winds. Hard and soft wind slabs should be expected on a variety of slopes in open terrain. rain was reported to almost 2000 m on New Years Day in the southern part of the region. Since then there's been around 15-20 cm of new snow. At higher elevations and northern sections there could be around 30-40 cm of recent storm snow. The new snow may be resting on older wind slabs or surface hoar in northern areas. Down 40-70 cm you may find another surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and moderate Southwest winds developed isolated pockets of touchy windslab in the alpine and at treeline. Since previous winds were from the north or northwest, wind slabs should be suspected on a wide variety of aspects in exposed terrain. A thin layer of surface hoar with variable distribution was buried on December 27th by about 5-10 cm of light dry snow. As more snow accumulates, this interface could become one to watch. Deeper, at about 40-60 cm below the surface, a persistent crust/surface hoar layer from mid-December can be found. Recent snowpack tests show moderate &quot;pops&quot;-type results on this layer, indicating the potential for avalanches to propagate if triggered on this layer. This persistent slab problem is reasonably widespread across the region and is not expected to improve quickly. A deeper crust/facet layer which formed early in the season may still be triggerable from thin or rocky snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of low density snow overlie wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs which formed on Friday. In more sheltered terrain, 30-50 cm of faceted snow sits on surface hoar which was buried on Christmas Eve. Although little is known about the distribution of this buried layer, professionals are keeping their eye on it as the overlying slab gains depth and cohesion. Up to 90cm of snow sits above a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar on or just above (10 cm) a rain crust. This was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have become dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast snowfall will cover a highly variable snow surface that includes wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. How well the new snow bonds to this surface is the question. Below this we also have to contend with the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are buried between 40 and 80 cm deep on average. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer could be more widespread but also more variable. Reports suggest is could be between 0 and 120 cm deep depending on exposure to wind. Heavy loading in the coming days could trigger these weaknesses creating very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Saturday temperatures plummeted and outflow winds cranked up again - likely created new wind slabs in exposed southwest to northwest facing terrain. Recent snowfall amounts seem to vary from 10 cm up to around 30 cm. This new snow sits on a variety of old surfaces including surface hoar, a crust, or older wind slabs. The surface hoar, down 25-35 cm, may be more prevalent in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can be found down around 40 to 80 cm and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The mid November crust down 70 to 175 is gaining strength but is still reactive in test profiles. The deeper snowpack weaknesses could 'wake up' with heavy loading from new snow and wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued light snowfall has added 10-20 cm of new snow to recent storm slabs. Winds were sufficiently strong to set up new wind slabs in exposed areas mostly on east-facing aspects, but previous wind slabs on south-facing aspects remain a concern and may now be buried by a small amount of new snow, making them harder to spot. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to a persistent weak layer from mid-December that comprises of a crust with well-preserved surface hoar crystals sitting above it. It is most prevalent between 1600 m and 2100 m and has been the weak layer responsible for a number of natural and human-triggered avalanches over the last several days. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow sits on a previous variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. How well the new snow bonds to this surface is the question. This storm is starting cold and will finish much warmer, meaning that the new storm snow will be more dense on top - a good recipe for slabs. Below the new snow we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are buried between 40 and 80 cm deep on average. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer could be more widespread but also more variable. Reports suggest is could be between 0 and 120 cm deep depending on exposure to wind. Heavy loading in the coming days could trigger these weaknesses creating very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast new snow and wind is expected to develop a new storm slab. There is about 30-50 cm of recent storm snow combined with variable winds that have produced windslabs on all aspects in the alpine and at treeline. Pockets of warm air in the north have likely made the snow dense in some places, while predominately westerly winds have set up fresh wind slabs in exposed lee areas. The persistent mid-December crust/surface hoar layer appears prominent in the south of the region and is still reported to fail easily during snowpack tests. It is most prominent at within a few hundred metres of treeline elevation. On average it can be found around 60 cm below the surface, although it has variably been reported anywhere from 30-90 cm below the surface. In the north of the region, this layer is present, although reported to be harder to trigger. Further down, a hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent 10-20 cm of light dry snow is expected to develop into a storm slab with the forecast heavy snow and strong winds. This new storm slab is sitting on recent windslabs that developed on various aspects during a period of changing wind directions last week. The mid-December persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust is buried down between 40-90 cm across the region, with most avalanches releasing down about 70 cm between 1700 and 2100 metres elevation. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">With the storm forecast for Sunday night, expect deep and reactive storm slabs to develop. The new snow will overlie a variety of old surfaces which include heavily wind-affected surfaces in exposed locations, and faceted powder and buried surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Up to 80 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weakness continues to be the primary layer of concern for the region. With forecast storm loading, I expect this layer to become even more reactive, with the potential for large and destructive avalanches. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are variable with northerly, wind exposed aspects showing firm wind pressing, or a scoured exposed crust. More sheltered locations have up to 30 cm of low density, faceted snow. In the alpine and at treeline, strong northerly winds have transported this snow into stiff wind slabs on opposite slopes. Up to 70 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. At higher elevations this crust has facets (sugary) snow above it and well-preserved surface hoar up to 10 mm in size in sheltered locations at treeline and below. Where the crust exists, it may be bridging triggers from penetrating to deeper persistent weaknesses. However, on high alpine slopes above where the rain crust formed, or in areas where rain didn't occur, deeply buried facets may still be susceptible to triggering, especially in thinner snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light flurries continue along the divide with snowfalls totalling up to 5cm over the past 24hrs.  HST amounts are now up to 10-15cm with generally light winds.  New thin windslabs are building in alpine terrain.  Still lots of vaiability within the snowpack.  The Dec 13th Crust is being found up to 2200m throughout the forecast area.  This seems to be more of a eastern rockies feature and not being found as high in areas further to the west.  The midpack is generally 1F to P hard but in thinner areas it is more weak and facetted.  The 1106CR is facetting out in many areas but we have still seen some activity on this layer over the past week.  This is mainly in areas closer to the divide and not around the Smith Dorrien Corridor.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 40cm of new snow fell throughout Sunday and was blown by steady winds into deeper deposits in lee terrain. The new snow was reported to have a poor bond with the underlying hard melt freeze crust. Reported snow depths are approximately 130 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds have been highly variable with strong W-NW winds followed immediately by strong SE-NE winds. Hard and soft wind slabs should be expected on a variety of slopes in open terrain. rain was reported to almost 2000 m on New Years Day in the southern part of the region. Since then there's been around 20-50 cm of new snow. The new snow may be resting on older wind slabs or surface hoar in northern areas. Down 40-70 cm you may find another surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and moderate Southwest winds developed isolated pockets of touchy windslab in the alpine and at treeline. Since previous winds were from the north or northwest, wind slabs should be suspected on a wide variety of aspects in exposed terrain. A thin layer of surface hoar with variable distribution was buried on December 27th by about 5-10 cm of light dry snow. As more snow accumulates, this interface could become one to watch. Deeper, at about 40-60 cm below the surface, a persistent crust/surface hoar layer from mid-December can be found.&nbsp; This persistent slab problem is reasonably widespread across the region and is not expected to improve quickly. A deeper crust/facet layer which formed early in the season may still be triggerable from thin or rocky snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15cm of new snow is forecast for Sunday night, and will likely be blown into reactive wind slabs on lee slopes. The new snow will overlie wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and 30-50 cm of low-density snow in sheltered terrain. Up to 90cm below the surface, you'll likely find a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar on a rain crust. This layer was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is deep and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow sits on a previous variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. How well the new snow bonds to this surface is the question. This storm is starting cold and will finish much warmer, meaning that the new storm snow will be more dense on top - a good recipe for slabs. Below the new we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are buried between 40 and 80 cm deep on average. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer could be more widespread but also more variable. Reports suggest is could be between 0 and 120 cm deep depending on exposure to wind. Heavy loading in the coming days could trigger these weaknesses creating very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions are highly variable throughout the region. Southern sections near Terrace received around 30 cm of new snow while Bear Pass and Ninginsaw didn't see any new snow on Saturday night. Strong winds are one common theme in all areas though. Ridge winds have been cranking from the SE stripping windward slopes bare and probably forming hard or dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded areas. A buried surface hoar layer, down 25-35 cm, may be more prevalent in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can be found down around 40 to 80 cm and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The November crust, down 70 to 175 cm, is gaining strength but is still reactive in some test profiles. The deeper snowpack weaknesses could 'wake up' with heavy loading from new snow and wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected to develop a new storm slab above the 10-20 cm of recent snow. Recent winds were sufficiently strong to set up new wind slabs in exposed areas mostly on east-facing aspects, but previous wind slabs on south-facing aspects remain a concern and may now be buried by a small amount of new snow, making them harder to spot. Storm slabs or wind slabs may be easy to trigger, and could step down to a persistent weak layer from mid-December that comprises of a crust with well-preserved surface hoar crystals sitting above it. It is most prevalent between 1600 m and 2100 m and has been the weak layer responsible for a number of natural and human-triggered avalanches over the last several days. A hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on a previous variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. How well the new snow bonds to this surface is the question. This storm is starting cold and will finish much warmer, meaning that the new storm snow will be more dense on top - a good recipe for slabs. Cornices will become weak with warming. Below the new snow we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These were buried between 40 and 80 cm deep on average. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer could be more widespread but also more variable. Reports suggest is could be between 0 and 120 cm deep depending on exposure to wind. Heavy loading in the coming days could trigger these weaknesses creating very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of dry new snow has combined with the 30-50 cm of recent snow to develop a storm slab above a mix of old surfaces including wind slabs on several aspects. The stiffness of the new storm slab has been reported to be variable across the region. Previous warm air in the north has likely made the snow dense in some places, while colder air in the East has resulted in less consolidated snow. The persistent mid-December crust/surface hoar layer appears prominent in the south of the region and is still reported to fail easily during snowpack tests. It is most prominent at within a few hundred metres of treeline elevation. On average it can be found around 80 cm below the surface, although it has variably been reported anywhere from 30-90 cm below the surface. In the north of the region, this layer is present, although reported to be harder to trigger. Further down, a hard rain crust with facets from early November is buried more than a metre down and is currently unreactive. However, triggering from shallow rocky and unsupported terrain remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There has been about 40 cm of new snow in the Monashees, and about 20 cm in the Selkirks overnight. The new snow combined with moderate to strong Southwest winds developed a new storm slab in the Monashees. Reports from the Selkirks describe less snow that is colder and drier with less wind effect. The new snow and recent snow have combined into a storm slab that is about 60 cm deep. This storm slab is sitting on a mix of old surfaces including patchy surface hoar and old windslabs on most aspects. Deeper down  (around 100 cm) the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer continues to allow for remote triggering and long fracture propagations. Forecast continued loading on top of the new storm slab may result in natural avalanche activity on the deeply buried weak layer.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40cm of new snow fell on Sunday night, with moderate southwest winds shifting these accumulations into deeper deposits in lee terrain. With more wind, snow and warming on the way, this potent new storm slab will likely remain sensitive to light triggers. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which include heavily wind-affected surfaces in exposed locations, and faceted powder and buried surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Up to 100 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weakness exists at all elevation bands, and continues to be the primary layer of concern for the region. With the current storm loading pattern, I expect this layer to increase in reactivity with the potential for large and destructive avalanches. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15cm of recent snowfall has been shifted into wind slabs in upper elevation terrain by moderate to strong westerly winds. These new accumulations overlie hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and low density faceted snow in sheltered areas. Up to 70 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and surface hoar (up to 10 mm in sheltered locations at treeline and below). This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below tree line has 50-70cm's of coverage still. Travel can be tedious off an existing trail. The Dec 13th crust is becoming more breakable due to the faceting of the supporting snow underneath. At treeline, the snowpack starts to grow(80-110cm's) and becomes a bit better. The crust is still very easy to find, but travel improves as the mid-pack becomes more dense. The Dec13th ice layer/crust is down 15-20cm's. The surface snow is still untouched by the winds. In the alpine, the crust is apparent up to 2200-2300m. The ice layer found at treeline is replaced with a melt freeze crust. Wherever the crust exists, the faceting below is becoming more and more obvious. Generally very little wind effect. Above 2400m, the winds have created windslabs that are presently limited to immediate lee features. The Nov6th crust is now completely decomposed. We have a typical rockies facet/depth hoar base at the moment. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 40cm of new snow fell throughout Sunday and was blown by steady winds into deeper deposits in lee terrain. On Sunday night, precipitation shifted to heavy rain and much of the new snow is expected to be rain-soaked. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 140 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds have been highly variable with strong W-NW winds followed immediately by strong SE-NE winds. Hard and soft wind slabs should be expected on a variety of slopes in open terrain. rain was reported to almost 2000 m on New Years Day in the southern part of the region. Since then there's been around 20-50 cm of new snow. The new snow may be resting on older wind slabs or surface hoar in northern areas. Down 40-70 cm you may find another surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm storm slab has started to develop above the recent isolated pockets of touchy windslab in the alpine and at treeline. Since previous winds were from the north or northwest, wind slabs should be suspected on a wide variety of aspects in exposed terrain. A thin layer of surface hoar with variable distribution was buried on December 27th by about 5-10 cm of light dry snow. As more snow accumulates, this interface could become one to watch. Deeper, at about 40-60 cm below the surface, a persistent crust/surface hoar layer from mid-December can be found. This persistent slab problem is reasonably widespread across the region and is not expected to improve quickly. A deeper crust/facet layer which formed early in the season may still be triggerable from thin or rocky snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15cm of low density snow fell on Sunday night. Moderate gusts have created soft wind slabs in the lee of ridgecrests. Steady snowfall on Monday night is expected to increase the amount of snow available for wind transport. Coupled with possible warming, slab properties may be enhanced and more reactive wind slabs may form. The new snowfall overlies wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and 30-50 cm of low-density faceted snow in sheltered terrain. Up to 90cm below the surface, you'll likely find a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar above a rain crust. This layer was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is deep and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on a previous variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. How well the new snow bonds to this surface is the question. This storm is starting cold and will finish much warmer, meaning that the new storm snow will be more dense on top - a good recipe for slabs. Cornices will become weak with warming. Below the new snow we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These were buried between 40 and 80 cm deep on average. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer could be more widespread but also more variable. Reports suggest is could be between 0 and 120 cm deep depending on exposure to wind. Heavy loading in the coming days could trigger these weaknesses creating very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Conditions are highly variable throughout the region. Southern sections near Terrace received around 30 cm of new snow while Bear Pass and Ninginsaw didn't see any new snow on Saturday night. Strong winds are one common theme in all areas though. Ridge winds were cranking from the SE stripping windward slopes bare and probably forming hard or dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded areas. A buried surface hoar layer, down 25-35 cm, may be more prevalent in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can be found down around 40 to 80 cm and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The November crust, down 70 to 175 cm, is gaining strength but is still reactive in some test profiles. The deeper snowpack weaknesses could 'wake up' with heavy loading from new snow and wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There has been about 40 cm of new snow in the Monashees, and about 20 cm in the Selkirks overnight. The new snow combined with moderate to strong Southwest winds developed a new storm slab in the Monashees. Reports from the Selkirks describe less snow that is colder and drier with less wind effect. The new snow and recent snow have combined into a storm slab that is about 60 cm deep. This storm slab is sitting on a mix of old surfaces including patchy surface hoar and old windslabs on most aspects. Deeper down  (around 100 cm) the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer continues to allow for remote triggering and long fracture propagations. Forecast continued loading on top of the new storm slab may result in natural avalanche activity on the deeply buried weak layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the end of the storm, freezing levels rose and rain fell on the new storm snow. The storm slab sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered shady terrain. The bond between the storm slab and the layer below is currently unknown but is expected to remain reactive on Wednesday. Cornices are expected to be weak with the current warming.  In the middle and lower snowpack we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now buried 1m or more. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable. Prior to the storm, reports suggested that the layer could be between 0 and 120cm deep depending on exposure to wind. The new storm load means these deep layers may be more reactive than prior to the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow overnight has developed a storm slab that is 40-60 cm thick that is sitting above a mix of old surfaces including wind slabs, old storm slabs, and pockets of surface hoar. Warm air in the alpine and at treeline has settled the new storm slab into a cohesive slab that is easier to trigger and may allow for longer fracture propagations. Below the storm slab there is a weak layer of surface hoar and crust that was buried in mid-December that continues to be a concern for human triggering. The mid-December weak layer may be buried up to 100 cm deep. Avalanches releasing on this layer may be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There has been about 60 cm of new snow in the Monashees, and about 50 cm in the Selkirks in the past 48 hours. On Tuesday warm (above freezing) air moved into the alpine and freezing levels climbed up to about 1800 metres. I suspect that the warm temperatures caused rapid settlement in the dry storm slab resulting in a higher likelihood of triggering. Rain or freezing rain have created a moist slab at treeline in the Monashees. The Selkirks may be a bit cooler and drier; alpine temperatures around Revelstoke were -2.0 on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp; The new storm slab is 60-80 cm thick and is sitting on a mix of old surfaces including patchy surface hoar and old windslabs on most aspects. Deeper down (around 100 cm) the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer continues to allow for remote triggering and long fracture propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 - 60 cm fell across the region over the last 48 hours with moderate southwest winds shifting these accumulations into deeper deposits in lee terrain. Warm temps, with the potential for a little rain will likely keep the storm storm slab sensitive to light triggers. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which include heavily wind-affected surfaces in exposed locations, faceted powder and buried surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Up to 100 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weakness exists at all elevation bands, and continues to be the primary layer of concern for the region. With the recent load of storm snow, I expect this layer to remain active with the potential for large and destructive avalanches. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 19cm of recent snowfall has been shifted into wind slabs in upper elevation terrain by moderate to strong westerly winds. These new accumulations overlie hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and low density faceted snow in sheltered areas. Up to 75 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and surface hoar (up to 10 mm in sheltered locations at treeline and below). This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We had almost 10cm's of new snow at valley bottom. This was slightly more than forecasted. The snow today had an &quot;upside down&quot; feel to it. The surface snow was slightly more dense than the layer below. The Dec 18th rain crust is going strong in the Commonwealth valley. It is still very apparent, yet it is supportive in most areas with the new snow. The snow immediately above(a very thin layer) and below is faceted. The midpack has continued to degrade in quality. The layers at the bottom, the Nov 6th crust, is extremely weak. Despite the conditions, there was no whumphing noted. There was some mild cracking on convex rolls and unsupported terrain. Upper treeline and alpine observations were limited today.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 40cm of new snow fell throughout Sunday and was blown by steady winds into deeper deposits in lee terrain. On Sunday night, precipitation shifted to heavy rain and much of the new snow is expected to be rain-soaked. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reported snow depths are approximately 140 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds have been highly variable with strong winds from almost all directions in the last few days.&nbsp; The most recent strong winds have been from SE-SW. Hard and soft wind slabs should be expected on a variety of slopes in open terrain. Rain was reported to almost 2000 m on New Years Day in the southern part of the region. Since then there's been around 30-70 cm of new snow. The new snow may be resting on older wind slabs or surface hoar in northern areas. In the mid-pack you may find another surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. I suspect it will remain sensitive to new inputs in the form of new snow and wind for the foreseeable future.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is a great deal of variability across the region. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm snow in the past 48 hours, quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow over the past 48 hours with light Northeast winds. This new slab may be sitting on a patchy layer of surface hoar that was buried near the end of December. Deeper in the snowpack there is a persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that is now down about 60 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15cm of low density snow fell on Sunday night followed by another 8 - 10 cm of heavy snow accompanied by freezing rain as high as 1600m on Monday night. Moderate gusts have created soft wind slabs in the lee of ridgecrests. The new snowfall overlies wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and 30-50 cm of low-density faceted snow in sheltered terrain. Up to 90cm below the surface, you'll likely find a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar above a rain crust. This layer was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is deep and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the end of the storm, freezing levels rose to around 2000m and rain fell on the new storm snow. The storm slab is around 60cm thick and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces (crust, hard and soft slabs), a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/surface-hoar/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. The bond between the storm slab and the layer below is currently unknown but is expected to remain reactive on Wednesday. Cornices are expected to be weak with the current warming. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> In the middle and lower snowpack we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now buried 1m or more. The surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable. Prior to the storm, reports suggested that the layer could be between 0 and 120cm deep depending on exposure to wind. The new storm load means these deep layers may be more reactive than prior to the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts vary across the region. Since the weekend, southern areas received 50-80cm of new snow and the north probably around half that. Strong winds are one common theme in all areas though. Ridge winds were cranking from the SE-SW stripping windward slopes bare and probably forming hard or dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded areas. A buried surface hoar layer down around 70cm may be more prevalent in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can be found down around 1m and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The November crust down near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but is still reactive in some test profiles. The deeper snowpack weaknesses could 'wake up' with heavy loading from new snow and wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air moved into the alpine on Tuesday. I suspect the warm air settled the storm slab and increased the likelihood of triggering. The storm continued on Monday night and Tuesday morning bringing the storm slab up to 60-80 cm in the past 48 hours. The new snow combined with moderate to strong Southwest winds developed a new storm slab in the Monashees. Reports from the Selkirks describe less snow that is colder and drier with less wind effect. This storm slab is sitting on a mix of old surfaces including patchy surface hoar and old windslabs on most aspects. Deeper down (around 100 cm) the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer continues to allow for remote triggering and long fracture propagations. Forecast continued loading on top of the new storm slab may result in natural avalanche activity on the deeply buried weak layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain and warm air melted the snow surface at most elevations and cooling Tuesday overnight refroze the surface creating a supportive crust. Reports are suggesting the upper 30-40cm of the recent storm snow is/was moist or wet. Below this is dry storm snow that is less dense creating upside-down conditions but this is expected to settle out quickly with continued warm temperatures. The total storm slab is around 50-70cm thick and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. The bond between the storm slab and the layer below is reported to be gaining strength but may still be touchy in isolated areas. In the middle and lower snowpack we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">After the storm we have been left with a new storm slab that is 40-60 cm thick and it is sitting above a mix of old surfaces including wind slabs, old storm slabs, and pockets of surface hoar. Warm air in the alpine and at treeline has settled the new storm slab into a cohesive slab that is easier to trigger and may allow for longer fracture propagations. Some areas have experienced strong Westerly winds that may have developed new windslabs by transporting the new snow. Below the storm slab there is a weak layer of surface hoar and crust that was buried in mid-December that continues to be a concern for human triggering. The mid-December weak layer may be buried up to 100 cm deep and continues to give easy or moderate sudden planar results in snow profile tests. Avalanches releasing on this layer may be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There has been about 60 cm of new snow in the Monashees, and about 50 cm in the Selkirks in the past 48 hours. On Tuesday warm (above freezing) air moved into the alpine and freezing levels climbed up to about 1800 metres. I suspect that the warm temperatures caused rapid settlement in the dry storm slab resulting in a higher likelihood of triggering. Rain or freezing rain have created a moist slab at treeline in the Monashees. The Selkirks may be a bit cooler and drier; alpine temperatures around Revelstoke were -2.0 on Tuesday afternoon. The new storm slab is 60-80 cm thick and is sitting on a mix of old surfaces including patchy surface hoar and old windslabs on most aspects. Deeper down (around 100 cm) the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer continues to allow for remote triggering and long fracture propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 - 60 cm of snow fell across the region earlier this week with moderate southwest winds shifting these accumulations into deeper deposits in lee terrain. Warm temperatures may keep the storm storm slab sensitive to light triggers. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which include heavily wind-affected surfaces in exposed locations, faceted powder and buried surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Up to 100 cm below the surface, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weakness exists at all elevation bands, and continues to be the primary layer of concern for the region. With the recent load of storm snow, I expect this layer to remain active with the potential for large and destructive avalanches. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of recent snowfall has been shifted into wind slabs in upper elevation terrain by moderate to strong westerly winds. These new accumulations overlie hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and low density faceted snow in sheltered areas. Up to 75 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and surface hoar (up to 10 mm in sheltered locations at treeline and below). This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below tree line there is 20-25 cm's of new snow on top of the Dec13th crust. The snow above the crust has faceted and will likely be a potential sliding layer as the load grows. At treeline the crust is now down 30cm's with a similar pattern of faceting above and below. So far the crust is not breaking down significantly at treeline elevation. The midpack is breaking down quickly. The winds today were significant enough to create reactive soft slabs at treeline and more dense slabs in the alpine. Snow depth at 1900m was 90cm's.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50cm of new snow fell throughout Sunday and was blown by steady winds into deeper deposits in lee terrain. On Sunday night, precipitation shifted to heavy rain and the new snow was saturated. Reported snow depths are approximately 140 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m). Only open slopes near treeline have enough snow for avalanches to initiate at this time, which is why there is no danger rating for the below treeline elevation band. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds have been highly variable with strong winds from almost all directions in the last few days. The most recent strong winds have been from SE-SW. Hard and soft wind slabs should be expected on a variety of slopes in open terrain. Rain was reported to almost 2000 m on New Years Day in the southern part of the region. Since then there's been around 30-70 cm of new snow. The new snow may be resting on older wind slabs or surface hoar in northern areas. In the mid-pack you may find another surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November. This layer is currently dormant and produces variable results in snowpack tests. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is a great deal of variability across the region. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm snow, quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow over the past few days with light Northeast winds, followed by some periods of solar radiation and warm alpine temperatures on Wednesday. The moist surface snow was sluffing naturally and triggering the storm slab in some areas on Wednesday. This new storm slab may be sitting on a patchy layer of surface hoar that was buried near the end of December. Deeper in the snowpack there is a persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that is now down about 60 cm. This persistent weak layer continues to likely-very likely to trigger from human activity.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of low density snow fell on Sunday night followed by another 8 - 10 cm of heavy snow and freezing rain as high as 1600 or even 1800 m on Monday night. Moderate gusts have created soft wind slabs in the lee of ridge crests. The new snowfall overlies wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and 30-50 cm of low-density faceted snow in sheltered terrain. Up to 90cm below the surface, you'll likely find a persistent weak layer comprising of small facets and/or surface hoar above a rain crust. This layer was buried mid-December and extends into alpine elevations. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is deep and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain and warm air melted the snow surface at most elevations and cooling Tuesday overnight refroze the surface creating a supportive crust. Reports are suggesting the upper 30-40cm of the recent storm snow is/was moist or wet. Below this is dry storm snow that is less dense creating upside-down conditions but this is expected to settle out quickly with continued warm temperatures. The total storm slab is around 50-70cm thick and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. The bond between the storm slab and the layer below is reported to be gaining strength but may still be touchy in isolated areas. In the middle and lower snowpack we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts vary across the region. Since the weekend, southern areas received 50-80cm of new snow and the north probably around half that. Strong winds are one common theme in all areas though. Ridge winds were cranking from the SE-SW stripping windward slopes bare and probably forming hard or dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded areas. A buried surface hoar layer down around 70cm may be more prevalent in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can be found down around 1m and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The November crust down near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but is still reactive in some test profiles. The deeper snowpack weaknesses could 'wake up' with heavy loading from new snow and wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air moved into the alpine on Tuesday and continued to be trapped there on Wednesday. I suspect the warm air settled the storm slab and increased the likelihood of triggering. The storm continued on Monday night and Tuesday morning bringing the storm slab up to 60-80 cm in the past 48 hours. The new snow combined with moderate to strong Southwest winds developed a new storm slab in the Monashees. Reports from the Selkirks describe less snow that is colder and drier with less wind effect. This storm slab is sitting on a mix of old surfaces including patchy surface hoar and old windslabs on most aspects. Deeper down (around 100 cm) the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer continues to allow for remote triggering and long fracture propagations. Snow profiles on this weak layer continue to give moderate to hard sudden planar results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust is capping the snowpack.&nbsp; Below the crust is the recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow has been redistributed into thick wind slab on lee slopes down to treeline elevations from moderate to strong westerly winds. Warm alpine temperatures have moistened the surface snow with a breakable surface crust forming on steep sun-exposed slopes. The mid-December surface hoar/crust persistent weak layer down 50-90 cm is still producing easy to moderate sudden planar test results at treeline elevations and below. Recent reports of whumpfing and the general nature of this weakness suggest it is susceptible to remote triggering and widespread propagation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are aiding in the settlement of the recent storm snow resulting in sensitive storm slabs up to 70 cm thick. A breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Around 80-120 cm down in the snowpack the mid-December surface hoar/crust weakness continues to be highly sensitive to human triggers with reports of remote triggering and long fracture propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and previous rain have probably created a surface crust on steep solar aspects and all slopes below around 1800 m. Dry powder can still be found at higher elevations. Around 30-60 cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which include heavily wind-affected surfaces in exposed locations, faceted powder and buried surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Buried 80-100 cm deep, you'll likely find a touchy weak layer of surface hoar sitting on a thick rain crust. This widespread persistent weakness exists at all elevation bands, and continues to be the primary layer of concern for the region. With the recent load of storm snow, I expect this layer to remain active with the potential for large and destructive avalanches. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline and on south-facing slopes there may be a melt-freeze crust overlying up to 20 cm of recent snow. At higher elevations the new snow has been blown into wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. The recent snow sits on hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and low density faceted snow in sheltered areas. Up to 75 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and surface hoar (up to 10 mm in sheltered locations at treeline and below). This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecasters made it up to 2300m today to inspect the alpine. The snow depth was 165cm's. The Dec 13th crust was there, but weak and decomposing. Stabillity tests showed a weakness down 50-60cm's on this crust. As expected, the winds have created windslabs 2400m and above. At lower elevations, the warm temperatures from yesterday did not have a huge impact. No new crusts formed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50cm of new snow fell throughout Sunday and was blown by steady winds into deeper deposits in lee terrain. On Sunday night, precipitation shifted to heavy rain and the new snow was saturated. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30-40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-80cm of new snow fell during the storm system.&nbsp; Strong winds, mainly from the S-SE, have striped windward slopes and built stiff wind slabs in leeward features. Below the storm snow may be a rain crust at lower elevations. In the mid-pack you may find a surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is a great deal of variability across the region. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm snow earlier in the week, quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow with light Northeast winds. This new slab may be bonding poorly to a patchy layer of surface hoar that was buried near the end of December. Deeper in the snowpack there is a persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that is now down about 60 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable or solid surface crust sits on the 20-30 cm of recent storm snow up to around 2100 m. Above this the storm snow has an 'upside-down' feel to it (more dense on top). The new snowfall overlies wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and lower density (previously) faceted snow in sheltered terrain. Several persistent weak layers of surface hoar or a crust with facets can be found between 50-90 cm deep. Recent avalanche activity has been reported on both weak layer interfaces. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust is capping the snowpack.&nbsp; Below the crust is the recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack we might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts vary across the region. Since the weekend, some southern areas received close to 1m of new snow and northern areas probably around half that. Strong winds are one common theme in all areas though. Ridge winds were cranking from the SE-SW stripping windward slopes bare and probably forming hard or dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded areas. Warm air in the alpine may be melting the snow surface and a surface crust may form when the warm air exits.  A buried surface hoar layer in the mid-snowpack may be most prevalent in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can also be found in the middle of the snowpack and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The November crust down near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but is still reactive in some test profiles. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Warm temperatures are aiding in the settlement of the recent storm snow resulting in sensitive storm slabs up to 70 cm thick. On Wednesday, snowpack tests were giving easy sudden results on this interface. The mid-December surface hoar/crust weakness down around 80-120 cm, continues to be highly sensitive to human triggers with reports of remote triggering and long fracture propagations. This persistent weak layer is still producing easy to moderate sudden planar snowpack test results at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust is capping the snowpack. Below the crust is the recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack you might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow has been redistributed into thick wind slab on lee slopes at treeline and alpine elevations from moderate to strong westerly winds. Warm alpine temperatures have moistened the surface snow with a breakable surface crust forming on steep sun-exposed slopes. The mid-December surface hoar/crust persistent weak layer down 50-90 cm is still producing easy to moderate sudden planar test results at treeline elevations and below. Recent reports of whumpfing and the general nature of this weakness suggest it is susceptible to remote triggering and widespread propagation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have aiding in the settlement of the recent storm snow resulting in sensitive storm slabs up to 70 cm thick. A breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Around 80-140 cm down in the snowpack the mid-December surface hoar/crust weakness continues to be highly sensitive to human triggers with reports of remote triggering and long fracture propagations. Recent snowpack tests are producing easy sudden results down around 25 cm within the storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The current snow surface consists of a melt-freeze crust with surface hoar on top in sheltered areas. This crust is reported on aspects to ridge top in some areas and below 1800 m in others. Fresh wind slabs are likely in exposed alpine and treeline terrain. The main snowpack concern is a buried surface hoar layer (down 80-100 cm), which is sitting on a rain crust in some places. This widespread persistent weakness exists at all elevation bands and remains a concern for triggering. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline and on south-facing slopes there may be a melt-freeze crust overlying up to 20 cm of recent snow. At higher elevations the new snow has been blown into wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. The recent snow sits on hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and low density faceted snow in sheltered areas. Up to 75 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and surface hoar (up to 10 mm in sheltered locations at treeline and below). This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Widespread wind affect in alpine terrain.  Treeline areas have pockets of wind slabs in open areas and good snow in more sheltered terrain.  The Dec 13th Rain Crust is being found up to 2200m on all aspects.  Its currently buried down 30-50cm with a weak layer of facets overlying this crust.  The mid pack continues to settle and strengthen and the Nov 6th crust is down 100-140cm in most areas but it is showing signs of breaking down.  Solar aspects have a thin melt freeze crust on steeper areas up to 2500m.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50cm of new snow fell last weekend before the precipitation turned to heavy rain and the upper snow was saturated. The moist or wet snow surface may form a solid crust if temperatures drop this weekend. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30-40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin melt-freeze crust now covers the 40-80 cm of recent storm snow up to at least treeline. Strong and variable winds may have created soft or stiff wind slabs on a variety of aspects in exposed terrain. Below the storm snow may be a rain crust at lower elevations. In the mid-pack you may find a surface hoar layer, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is a great deal of variability across the region. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm snow earlier in the week, quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine which has resulted in a breakable surface crust. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow which has since been redistributed into touchy soft wind slabs, while large surface hoar is growing in sheltered areas. Deeper in the snowpack there is a persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that is now down about 30-80 cm. Recent snowpack tests on the West side of the range produced easy resistant results down 25 cm in the recent storm snow, and moderate to hard but sudden results down 80-90 cm on buried surface hoar sitting on a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable or solid surface crust sits on the 20-30 cm of recent storm snow up to ridge top in most places. Dense or hard wind slabs are reported in exposed lee terrain in the alpine. The recent snowfall overlies wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and lower density (previously) faceted snow in sheltered terrain. Several persistent weak layers of surface hoar or a crust with facets can be found between 50-90 cm deep. Recent avalanche activity has been reported on both weak layer interfaces. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust is capping the snowpack. Below the crust is the recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack you might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried at least 100cm below the surface. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts vary across the region. Some southern areas received close to 1m of new snow and northern areas probably around half that. Strong winds have redistributed large amounts of the recent storm snow and rain in some areas has produced a surface crust layer that will be of concern with future snow loading. A buried surface hoar layer in the mid-snowpack is still on the radar in northern sections like Bear Pass and Ninginsaw Pass. The mid December crust can also be found in the middle of the snowpack and is sandwiched with facets and surface hoar. The November crust down near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may be reactive in some locations.. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Warm temperatures are aiding in the settlement of the recent storm snow resulting in sensitive storm slabs up to 70 cm thick. On Wednesday, snowpack tests were giving easy sudden results on this interface. The mid-December surface hoar/crust weakness down around 80-120 cm, continues to be highly sensitive to human triggers with reports of remote triggering and long fracture propagations. This persistent weak layer is still producing easy to moderate sudden planar snowpack test results at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust is capping the snowpack. Below the crust is the recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack you might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow has been redistributed into thick wind slab on lee slopes at treeline and alpine elevations from moderate to strong westerly winds. Warm alpine temperatures have moistened the surface snow with a breakable surface crust forming on steep sun-exposed slopes. The mid-December surface hoar/crust persistent weak layer down 50-90 cm is still producing easy to moderate sudden planar test results at treeline elevations and below. Recent reports of whumpfing and the general nature of this weakness suggest it is susceptible to remote triggering and widespread propagation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the recent storm snow resulting in storm slabs up to 70 cm thick. A breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Around 80-140 cm down in the snowpack the mid-December surface hoar/crust weakness continues to be sensitive to human triggers with reports of remote triggering and long fracture propagations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The current snow surface consists of a melt-freeze crust with surface hoar on top in sheltered areas. This crust is reported on aspects to ridge top in some areas and below 1800 m in others. Fresh wind slabs are likely in exposed alpine and treeline terrain. The main snowpack concern is a buried surface hoar layer (down 80-100 cm), which is sitting on a rain crust in some places. This widespread persistent weakness exists at all elevation bands and remains a concern for triggering. At the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet combo appears to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline and on south-facing slopes there may be a melt-freeze crust overlying up to 20 cm of recent snow. At higher elevations the new snow has been blown into wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. The recent snow sits on hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and low density faceted snow in sheltered areas. Up to 75 cm below the surface you will likely find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and surface hoar (up to 10 mm in sheltered locations at treeline and below). This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Widespread wind affect in alpine terrain.  At treeline, pockets of windslabs and persistent slabs overlying the Dec13th crust down 30-50cm. Moderate sheers persist at this interface on a layer of facets above the crust.  Crust seems to disappear above 2300m.  1106CR down 120-140cm and is continuing to break down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50cm of new snow fell last weekend before the precipitation turned to heavy rain and the upper snow was saturated. The moist or wet snow surface may form a solid crust if temperatures drop this weekend. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30-40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin melt-freeze crust now covers the 40-80 cm of recent storm snow up to at least treeline. Strong and variable winds have created soft and stiff wind slabs on varying aspects in exposed terrain. Below the recent storm snow is a rain crust at lower elevations and a temperature crust has formed in some locations from the recent temperature inversion. In the mid-pack a surface hoar layer has been reported, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is a great deal of variability across the region. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm snow earlier in the week, quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine which has resulted in a breakable surface crust. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow which has since been redistributed into touchy soft wind slabs, while large surface hoar is growing in sheltered areas. Deeper in the snowpack there is a persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that is now down about 30-80 cm. Recent snowpack tests on the West side of the range produced easy resistant results down 25 cm in the recent storm snow, and moderate to hard but sudden results down 80-90 cm on buried surface hoar sitting on a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable or solid surface crust sits on the 20-30 cm of recent storm snow up to ridge top in most places. Dense or hard wind slabs are reported in exposed lee terrain in the alpine. The recent snowfall overlies wind-scoured surfaces and hard wind slabs in exposed terrain, and lower density (previously) faceted snow in sheltered terrain. Several persistent weak layers of surface hoar or a crust with facets can be found between 50-90 cm deep. Recent avalanche activity has been reported on both weak layer interfaces. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust is capping the snowpack. Below the crust is the recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack you might find the mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried at least 100cm below the surface. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread but also more variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts vary widely across the region. Southern areas received close to 1m of new snow, but northern areas reported receiving half of that. Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow, and rain in some areas  has produced a surface crust layer that will be of concern with future snow loading. A buried surface hoar layer in the mid-snowpack is still on the radar in some northern sections , and the mid December crust can still be found in the middle of the snowpack. This layer has been reported to be sandwiched between facets and surface hoar in some places. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with shallow snowpack.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Warm temperatures are aiding in the settlement of the recent storm snow resulting in sensitive storm slabs up to 70 cm thick. On Wednesday, snowpack tests were giving easy sudden results on this interface. The mid-December surface hoar/crust weakness down around 80-120 cm, continues to be sensitive to human triggers with reports of remote triggering and long fracture propagations. This persistent weak layer is still producing easy to moderate sudden planar snowpack test results at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust has capped the snowpack in most, if not all parts of the forecast region. Below the crust is the most recent storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack there exists a mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread and variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've received reports that a temperature inversion has left a crust above 1800m on most aspects in the Valemount area. Other parts of the region are reporting a thin solar crust on steep south and east aspects. Warm temps and time have helped to settle the 30 - 90cm of storm snow that fell almost a week ago. That snow rests on the mid-December surface hoar/crust persistent weak layer that continues to produce inconsistent test results. It seams to be most sensitive at and below treeline (approx: 1900m). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">While there are exceptions, for the most part a breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and on sun-exposed slopes above. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the nearly week old storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This snow adds to the depth of the persistent slab which is now 80 - 140cm thick.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This thick slab rests on the mid-December surface hoar/crust persistent weak layer (PWL) which remains sensitive to human triggering. This PWL continues to produce widely variable results from very easy shears to no shear at all which isn't very confidence inspiring. The trend shows that easy to moderate sudden planar shears and the resulting human triggered avalanches are most likely at and below treeline. The absence of crust at upper elevations is thought to make the slab less reactive in the alpine, but we're not receiving much in the way of observations from that vegetative/elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of low-density snow overlies well-developed surface hoar which sits above a melt-freeze crust. The crust is reported to exist on all aspects below about 1900m, and on steep solar aspects at higher elevations. Stubborn wind slabs are likely in exposed alpine and treeline terrain. The main snowpack concern is a buried surface hoar layer (down 60-120 cm), which is sitting on a hard rain crust in some places. This widespread persistent weakness, which formed in December, exists at all elevation bands and remains a concern for triggering. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow may overlie a melt-freeze crust which exists below treeline and on south-facing slopes. In upper elevation terrain, these modest accumulations overlie hard, stubborn wind slabs. Up to 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and/or surface hoar. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very little change over the past 24hrs.  Widespread wind affect in alpine terrain. At treeline, pockets of windslabs and persistent slabs overlying the Dec13th crust down 30-50cm. Moderate sheers persist at this interface on a layer of facets above the crust. Crust seems to disappear above 2300m. 1106CR down 120-140cm and is continuing to break down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A week ago, up to 50cm of new snow fell before the precipitation turned to heavy rain and the upper snowpack was saturated. The moist or wet snow surface may form a solid crust if temperatures drop below freezing. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, 70 cm mid-mountain (around 1100 m) and 30-40 cm at lower elevations (around 900 m).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong and variable winds have created soft and stiff wind slabs on varying aspects in exposed terrain. Below the recent storm snow is a rain crust at lower elevations and a temperature crust has formed in some locations from the recent temperature inversion. In the mid-pack a surface hoar layer has been reported, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the bottom of the snowpack is a crust facet combo that was buried in mid-November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is a great deal of variability across the region. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm last week which was quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine which has resulted in a breakable surface crust. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow which has since been redistributed into ageing wind slabs, while large surface hoar is growing in sheltered areas. Deeper in the snowpack there is a persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crust that is now down about 30-80 cm. Recent snowpack tests on the West side of the range produced easy resistant results down 25 cm in the recent storm snow, and moderate to hard but sudden results down 80-90 cm on buried surface hoar sitting on a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies fairly well-developed surface hoar which sits above a breakable or solid crust. Dense or hard wind slabs are reported in exposed lee terrain in the alpine.  A few persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found in the mid and upper snowpack. The most prominent one was formed in mid December and coexists with a crust and facets between 60-90 cm below the surface. Recent avalanche activity has been reported at this interface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust has capped the snowpack. Below the crust is the last storm snow which is around 50-70cm deep and sits on a previously variable snow surface that included wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and/or surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the middle of the snowpack there's a mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried at least 100cm below the surface. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread and variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow, and rain in some areas has produced a surface crust layer that will be of concern with future snow loading. A buried surface hoar layer in the mid-snowpack is still on the radar in some northern sections , and the mid December crust can still be found in the middle of the snowpack. This layer has been reported to be sandwiched between facets and surface hoar in some places. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with shallow snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">While there are exceptions, for the most part a breakable surface melt-freeze crust can be expected on all aspects below approximately 1800 m and sun-exposed slopes above. Warm temperatures and time have aided in the settlement of the recent snow which adds to the persistent slab problem. The slab is now 60 - 130 cm in thickness and is resting on the mid-December surface hoar/crust which remains sensitive to human triggering. This persistent weak layer continues to produce variable results from very easy shears to no shear at all which isn't very confidence inspiring. The trend shows that easy to moderate sudden planar shears are most likely at and below treeline. The absence of crust at upper elevations is thought to make the slab less reactive in the alpine, but we're not receiving much in the way of observations from that vegetative/elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust has capped the snowpack in most, if not all, parts of the forecast region. Below the crust is the most recent storm snow around 50-70cm deep and sitting on a variety of snow surfaces that includes wind affected surfaces, a freezing rain crust or sun crust, and surface hoar or sugary facets in sheltered terrain. In the mid snowpack there is a mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layer. This is now typically buried 1m or more. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is more widespread and variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports that the temperature inversion has left a crust above 1800m on most aspects in the Valemount area. Other parts of the region are reporting a thin solar crust on steep south and east aspects. Warm temps and time have helped to settle the 30 - 90cm of storm snow that fell almost a week ago. That snow rests on the mid-December surface hoar/crust persistent weak layer that continues to produce inconsistent test results. It seams to be most sensitive at and below treeline (approx: 1900m). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few centimeters of new snow fell over the weekend. Below this new snow is likely a breakable melt-freeze crust which exists below around 1800m on all aspects and on steep sun-exposed slopes at all elevations. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the nearly week old storm snow. Down 80-140cm is the touchy mid-December surface hoar/crust layer which remains sensitive to human triggering. This persistent weak layer continues to produce widely variable results from very easy shears to no shear at all which isn't very confidence inspiring. The trend shows that easy to moderate sudden planar shears and the resulting human triggered avalanches are most likely at treeline or just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of low-density snow overlies well-developed surface hoar which sits above a melt-freeze crust. The crust is reported to exist on all aspects below about 1900m, and on steep solar aspects at higher elevations. Stubborn wind slabs are likely to exist in exposed alpine and treeline terrain. The main snowpack concern is a buried surface hoar layer (down 60-120 cm), which is sitting on a hard rain crust in some places. This widespread persistent weakness, which formed in December, exists at all elevation bands and remains a concern for triggering. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a facet/crust combo which formed in November has remained mostly dormant, although recent activity in the Bonnington Range suggests it may still be reactive in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow may overlie a melt-freeze crust which exists below treeline and on south-facing slopes. In upper elevation terrain, these modest accumulations overlie hard, stubborn wind slabs. Up to 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust which formed mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and/or surface hoar. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecasters went to Little Tent Ridge today to have a look at W and NW aspects. At 2250m there was 100cm of snow. A 5cm thick reactive hardslab was down 20cms, followed by the fairly dense midpack. Beneath this, the old Nov24 facets were very weak. Surprisingly, the Nov6th crust was intact and still 4cm thick. It sat 15cm's above the ground and rested on a well settled layer of facets. No depth hoar. The stability tests gave two alarming results: a moderate, fast failure(CTM11, sudden plainer) below the upper windslab and a moderate sudden collapse(CTM14) on the Nov 24 facets, down 70cm. There was no sign of the Dec13th crust. Elsewhere the snowpack was very predictable and in tune with other locations. The Dec13th crust down 25cm's, and a midpack that continues to get weaker. The alpine has widespread wind slabs that make for tricky, and potentially dangerous conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light rain has continued to keep snow surfaces moist.  Looking forward, the moist or wet snow surface may form a solid crust if temperatures drop below freezing. The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds have created wind slabs on lee aspects in exposed terrain. Below the recent storm snow is a rain crust at lower elevations and a temperature crust formed on the surface above treeline in some locations from the recent temperature inversion. In the mid-pack a surface hoar layer has been reported, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is a lot of variability in last week's storm snow amounts across the region which is likely affecting the reactivity and the ability to trigger the mid-Dec surface hoar layer which sits below. The West and South have received up to 60 cm of storm last week which was quickly followed by high freezing levels and warm air up into the alpine which has resulted in a breakable surface crust. The North and East of the region have had 20-30 cm of cold dry new snow which has since been redistributed into ageing wind slabs, while large surface hoar is growing in sheltered areas. Recent snowpack tests on the West side of the range produced easy resistant results down 25 cm in the recent storm snow, and moderate to hard but sudden results down 80-90 cm on buried surface hoar sitting on a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies fairly well-developed surface hoar which sits above a breakable or solid crust. Dense or hard wind slabs are reported in exposed lee terrain in the alpine. A few persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found in the mid and upper snowpack. The most prominent one was formed in mid December and coexists with a crust and facets between 60-90 cm below the surface. Recent avalanche activity has been reported at these surface hoar interfaces.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust has capped the snowpack with a variety of older snow surfaces In the middle of the snowpack there's a mid-December surface hoar or crust/facet weak layers. These are now typically buried at least 100cm below the surface. The old surface hoar layer may be found in sheltered shady areas at and below treeline, while the slightly deeper crust/facet layer is expected to be more widespread and variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow, and rain in some areas has produced a surface crust layer that will be of concern with future snow loading. A buried surface hoar layer in the mid-snowpack is still on the radar in some northern sections , and the mid December crust can still be found in the middle of the snowpack. This layer has been reported to be sandwiched between facets and surface hoar in some places. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with shallow snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few centimeters of new snow fell over the weekend. Below this new snow is likely a breakable melt-freeze crust which exists below around 1800m on all aspects and on steep sun-exposed slopes at all elevations. Warm temperatures and time have aided in the settlement of the recent snow which adds to the persistent slab problem. The slab is now 60 - 130 cm in thickness and is resting on the mid-December surface hoar/crust which remains sensitive to human triggering. This persistent weak layer continues to produce variable results from very easy shears to no shear at all which isn't very confidence inspiring. The trend shows that this layer is most reactive at and just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick crust is the most dominant feature in the snowpack above 1500 metres with breakable crust below that. There are a variety of layers previously mentioned in snowpack discussions, but unless there is an extreme weather event, they are likely to remain out of the picture . Some areas have reported 5cm of soft snow in sheltered areas above 1800metres, and one reporting party has observed 8mm surface hoar development on North apsects around ridgetops.&nbsp; One operator has reported a Jan 4th surface hoar that may now be buried by as much as 20 to 40 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface consists of surface hoar up to 10mm around treeline, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, a localized thin breakable temperature crust, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine.  Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. The persistent slab is typically 40-70cm thick and sits on the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer which remains sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable melt-freeze crust exists below around 1500-2000m on all aspects and on steep sun-exposed slopes at all elevations. A layer of surface hoar as big as 20mm sits on top of this crust on all aspects up to ridgetop. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. Down 80-140cm is the touchy mid-December surface hoar/crust layer which remains sensitive to human triggering. This persistent weak layer remains reactive in snowpack tests and continues to produce large, destructive avalanches. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar crystals are growing on the snow surface. Underneath this a thin frozen crust exists up to about 1900m. Our main concern continues to be a crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December. This touchy layer is 60-120cm down and has the potential to be triggered by people and produce surprisingly large avalanches. A facet/crust layer near the base of the snowpack has mostly been dormant, apart from recent </span><span class="s_17AE1194">activity in the Bonnington Range which suggests it may still be reactive in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AD137C69">A dusting of new snow may overlie a melt-freeze crust which exists below treeline and on south-facing slopes. In upper elevation terrain, these modest accumulations overlie hard, stubborn wind slabs. Up to 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust which was buried in mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and/or surface hoar. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar growth occurred last night up to 8mm in size.  With some clear relatively calm nights ahead will see this growth continue, although this won't be a concern until it is buried.  In the alpine and open areas at treeline there are variably distributed windslabs making for tricky skiing.  A sun crust formed on solar aspects from last Wednesday's intense sunny period.  Sheltered areas are the key to good turns at the moment.  Forecasters were in the Hero's Knob area where the Dec. 13th layer was prevalent at treeline and in the sub-alpine elevations.  Weak facetted snow crystals were found both above and below this layer giving forecasters concern for human triggering.  The basal weak layers are still a concern so much so that it turned forecasters around today.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures may help keep the snow surface moist. Alternatively, you may encounter a solid frozen crust. The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">SW winds are creating wind slabs on lee aspects in exposed terrain, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects. Below the recent storm snow is a rain crust at lower elevations and a temperature crust that formed on the surface above treeline from the recent temperature inversion. In the mid-pack a surface hoar layer has been reported, although it appears to be spotty in distribution. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that will hopefully soon no longer be a problem.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of surface hoar up to 10mm sits on the snow surface. A sun crust exists on steep sun exposed slopes.  Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. The persistent slab is typically 40-80cm thick and sits on the mid-December surface hoar/crust layers which remains sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies fairly well-developed surface hoar which sits above a breakable or solid crust. Dense or hard wind slabs are reported in exposed lee terrain in the alpine. A few persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found in the mid and upper snowpack. The most prominent one was formed in mid December and coexists with a crust and facets 60-90 cm below the surface. Recent avalanche activity has been reported at these surface hoar interfaces.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick supportive surface crust has capped most of the snowpack above 1500 metres.&nbsp; Breakable crust below 1500 metres.&nbsp; Reports of lingering soft snow and surface hoar development to ridge tops on North aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow, and rain in some areas has produced a surface crust layer that will be of concern with future snow loading. A buried surface hoar layer in the mid-snowpack is still on the radar in some northern sections  and the mid December crust can still be found in the middle of the snowpack. This layer has been reported to be sandwiched between facets and surface hoar in some places. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with shallow snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable melt-freeze crust may exist below roughly 1500-2000m on all aspects and on steep sun-exposed slopes at all elevations. A layer of surface hoar as big as 20mm sits on top of this crust on all aspects up to ridgetop. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow.&nbsp; The slab is typically 80 - 120cm thick and sits on the mid-December surface hoar/crust which remains sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thick crust is the most dominant feature in the snowpack above 1500 metres with breakable crust below that. There are a variety of layers previously mentioned in snowpack discussions, but unless there is an extreme weather event, they are likely to remain out of the picture . Some areas have reported 5cm of soft snow in sheltered areas above 1800metres, and one reporting party has observed 8mm surface hoar development on North aspects up to ridge tops. One operator reported that the Jan. 4th surface hoar that may now be buried by as much as 20 to 40 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface consists of widespread surface hoar up to 10mm, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, a localized thin breakable temperature crust, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. The persistent slab is typically 40-70cm thick and sits on the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer which remains sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable melt-freeze crust exists below around 1600-1800m on all aspects and on steep sun-exposed slopes at all elevations. A layer of 10-20mm surface hoar sits on top of this crust on all aspects up to ridgetop. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. Down 80-120cm is the touchy mid-December surface hoar/crust layer which remains sensitive to human triggering. This persistent weak layer remains reactive in snowpack tests and continues to produce large, destructive avalanches. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar crystals are growing on the snow surface. New snow or new wind slabs are likely to bond poorly to this surface. Underneath this a thin frozen crust exists up to about 1900m. Our main concern continues to be a crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December. This touchy layer is 60-120cm down and has the potential to be triggered by people and produce surprisingly large avalanches. Operators are still tip-toeing around and treating this interface with suspicion. A facet/crust layer near the base of the snowpack has mostly been dormant, apart from recent </span><span class="s_17AE1194">activity in the Bonnington Range which suggests it may still be reactive in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of recent snow may overlie a rain crust which exists up to 1900 m. In upper elevation terrain, these modest accumulations overlie hard, stubborn wind slabs. Up to 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust which was buried in mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and/or surface hoar. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very little change out there at this time.  Open alpine terrain is wind affects even areas down into treeline are showing evidence of wind affected snow surface.  The dec 13th crust is being found up to 2200m down 30-50cm and is continuing to produce moderate sheers on a layer of FC both above and below this layer.  Deeper in the snowpack the Nov 6th crust persist but is showing signs of breaking down.  A new layer of surface hoar is widespread in all areas below treeline and sheltered areas in the Alpine that will likely be a problem when the next storm, or a storm, arrives.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A storm on Thursday/Friday looks set to bring up to 30 cm of snow above about 1200 m, and rain at lower elevations. Moderate to strong southerly winds may redistribute new snow into wind slabs on lee slopes, especially at ridge top elevations. New snow /rain will fall onto a moist old snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong South winds will build wind-slabs on lee aspects in exposed terrain, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects. Below the recent storm snow is a rain crust at lower elevations and a temperature crust that formed on the surface above treeline from the last temperature inversion. In the mid-pack a surface hoar layer has been reported, as well as a mid-December crust, but we haven't seen any activity on it recently. Most likely because it hasn't yet received a significant load on it. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic for some time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of surface hoar up to 10mm sits on the snow surface. A sun crust exists on steep sun exposed slopes. In the alpine, wind affected surfaces are expected.&nbsp; Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. The persistent slab is typically 40-80cm thick and sits on the mid-December surface hoar/crust layers which remains sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies fairly well-developed surface hoar which sits above a breakable or solid crust. Dense or hard wind slabs are reported in exposed lee terrain in the alpine. A few persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found in the mid and upper snowpack. The most prominent one was formed in mid December and coexists with a crust and facets 60-90 cm below the surface. Recent avalanche activity has been reported at these surface hoar interfaces.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack in the Sea to Sky is pretty much static right now. There is a surface crust on most of the snowpack above 1500 metres. Breakable crust below 1500 metres. Soft snow and surface hoar development to ridge tops on protected North aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow into wind slabs, and rain is saturating the surface of the snowpack at treeline and below. Above treeline, a buried surface hoar layer 10-20cm below the surface has been reported. The mid-December crust/facet layer exists throughout the area where it hasn't been wiped out by recent avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with shallow snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A breakable melt-freeze crust may exist below roughly 1600-1800m on all aspects and on steep sun-exposed slopes at all elevations. A layer of 10-20mm surface hoar sits on top of this crust on all aspects up to ridgetop. Recent warm temperatures have aided in the settlement of the week old storm snow. The slab is typically 80-120cm thick and sits on the mid-December surface hoar/crust which remains sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at treeline or just below treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm snow being redistributed by strong winds on top of the crust will be the situation to watch. There are a variety of layers previously mentioned in snowpack discussions, but unless there is an extreme weather event, they are likely to remain out of the picture  for the time being. Surface hoar development has been reported on North aspects up to ridge tops. One operator reported that the Jan. 4th surface hoar layer may now be buried by as much as 20 to 40 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowfall is burying widespread 5-15mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 40-70cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowfall is burying widespread 10-20mm surface hoar up, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The forecast snow will burry a layer of Large surface hoar crystals on the old snow surface. Underneath this a thin frozen crust can be found up to about 1900m on N aspects and to ridgeline on south aspects. Deeper in the snow pack our main concern continues to be another crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December. This weak layer can be found between 60-120cm down and still has the potential to be triggered by people to produce surprisingly large avalanches. Avalanche professionals in the region are&nbsp;  treating this interface with suspicion. Near the base of the snowpack the facet/crust layer has mostly been dormant, however, isolated recent activity in the Bonnington Range suggests it may still be reactive in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow may overlie a rain crust which exists up to 1900 m. In upper elevation terrain, these modest accumulations overlie hard, stubborn wind slabs. Up to 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust which was buried in mid-December. This crust has overlying facets and/or surface hoar. This layer seems variably reactive throughout the region. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. A crust/facet combo which formed in November seems to have gone dormant for the time being. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar growth on all aspects up to 2300m.  This surface hoar is up to sz 10mm in some areas and WILL be a problem persistent layer when its buried.  The Dec 13th interface is down 30-40cm and continues to produce moderate sheers on a layer of facets over this crust.  This crust, the Dec 13, is only being found up to 2250m-ish.  Below this the mid pack is generally well settled with the 1106cr down 1m.  Most alpine terrain is wind hammerred. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent snows at upper elevations may have been redistributed into new wind slabs on lee slopes, especially at ridge top elevations.  The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong South winds are building wind-slabs, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects. A rain crust is still out there up to 1600m and melt freeze crust to 1850m. Keep in mind a surface hoar layer reported to be 15 to 20cm below the surface in areas protected from the wind. We're watching the December crust, but we haven't seen any activity on it recently, most likely because it hasn't received a significant load on it. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic for some time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowfall is burying widespread 10-20mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 40-80cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline.&nbsp; </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecast snows will fall onto a layer of well-developed surface hoar especially prevalent at treeline and/or a crust. The old snow surface in the alpine is wildly wind effected with hard wind slabs reported in lee terrain. A few persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found in the mid and upper snowpack. The layer that is our greatest concern was formed in mid December and may be found above a crust and/or facets between 60-90 cm below the surface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow accompanied by strong South winds is being deposited on a surface crust for most of the snowpack above 1500 metres. Breakable crust below 1500 metres. Surface Hoar to ridge tops on protected North aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow into wind slabs, and rain is saturating the surface of the snowpack at treeline and below. Above treeline, a rain crust and a buried surface hoar layer 10-20cm below the surface have been reported. The mid-December crust/facet layer exists throughout the area where it hasn't been wiped out by recent avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with shallow snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowfall is burying widespread 10-20mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent storm snow is likely to be shifted by strong winds into slabs over a hard crust or surface hoar. These may be easy to trigger with the weight of a person or snowmobile. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25cm of new snow fell on Friday night. The new snow, which has been distributed into deeper deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain, overlies widespread 5-15mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 50-80cm below the surface and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday's snowfall buried a layer of large surface hoar or facets. In many places these week crystals sit above a thin crust which can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. While this layer is developing our main concern continues to be deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December. This weak layer can be found 60-120cm down and still has the potential to be triggered by people. Near the base of the snowpack the facet/crust layer from November has mostly been dormant, however, isolated recent activity in the Bonnington Range suggests that this layer may still be reactive in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall may sit above a rain crust which exists in many places up to 1900m or old, stiff wind slabs at higher elevations. 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust that was buried in mid-December. In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November seems to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A trace amount of new snow fell overnight but not enough to really bury the surface hoar that has been growing on all aspects up to 2400m. The Dec 13th interface is down 30-40cm and continues to produce moderate sheers on a layer of facets over this crust. This crust, the Dec 13, is only being found up to 2250m-ish. Below this the mid pack is generally well settled with the 1106cr down 1m. Most alpine terrain is wind hammerred and even some areas down into treeline saw some wind affect on Friday. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent snows at upper elevations may have been redistributed into new wind slabs on lee slopes, especially at ridge top elevations. The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Strong southerly winds are building wind slabs, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects. A rain crust is still out there up to 1600m and a melt freeze crust to 1850m. Keep in mind a surface hoar layer reported to be 15 to 20cm below the surface in areas protected from the wind. We're watching the December crust, but we haven't seen any activity on it recently, most likely because it hasn't received a significant load on it. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic for some time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 40-80cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall buried a layer of well-developed surface hoar which sits above a crust at and below treeline. Older persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found deeper in the snowpack. The layer that is our greatest concern was formed in mid-December and may be found above a crust and/or facets 60-90cm below the surface. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow accompanied by strong S-SW winds is building wind slabs above a hard crust, which exists above about 1500 metres. (Below about 1500 m, the crust is breakable.) The new snow may have buried surface hoar on some slopes, possibly forming a poor bond. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Strong winds have redistributed the recent storm snow into wind slabs, and rain is saturating the surface of the snowpack to at least treeline elevations. Above treeline, a rain crust and a buried surface hoar layer 10-20cm below the surface have been reported. The mid-December crust/facet layer exists throughout the area where it hasn't been wiped out by recent avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded but may still be reactive in areas with a shallow snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 10 and 25cm of new snow fell on Friday night. The new snow, which has been blown into deeper deposits in lee terrain, overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent storm snow is likely to be shifted by strong winds into slabs overlying a hard crust or surface hoar. These may be easy to trigger with the weight of a person or snowmobile. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25cm of new snow fell on Friday night. The new snow, which has been distributed into deeper deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain, overlies widespread 5-15mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. More snow and wind forecast for Sunday will add to the size and reactivity of this developing storm slab. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 50-80cm below the surface and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of new snow has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. More snow and wind forecast for Sunday will increase the size and reactivity of the developing storm slab. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the surface, and may still be sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive in the south of the region at and below treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecast precipitation will add load to the layer of large surface hoar or facets that was buried earlier in the week. In many places these week crystals sit above a thin crust which can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. The deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December also continues to be a concern.  Before Sunday’s storm this weak layer could be found between 60 and 120cm down.  While it is now deeper and less likely to be triggered by people, step down avalanche are possible.  Near the base of the snowpack the facet/crust combo formed in November has mostly been dormant but the avalanche cycle expected for Sunday will be a good test of this layer.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecast precipitation will add load to the layer surface hoar surface hoar and or crust which exists in many places up to 1900m.&nbsp; At higher elevation it wil fall on old, stiff wind slabs. 75 cm below the surface you may find a hard, thick crust that was buried in mid-December. In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible at this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November seems to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We received about 5cm of new snow over the past 24hrs which is now burying the 0116 surface hoar layer.  This layer is widespread up to treeline then a bit more spotty in sheltered areas in the Alpine.  Below this layer, the snowpack is mainly facetted with very little structure.  The 1213cr is down 30-45cm but only being found below 2300m.  Moderate sheers persist on this interface on a layer of facets.  Deeper in the snowpack the 1106cr is still lurking.  This layer has not produced an avalanche in some time but with some load, we may see this interface come back to life. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent rain has saturated the snow pack. The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3D888173">Strong southerly winds are building wind slabs, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects (other aspects may be getting cross-loaded or variable local wind effects too, so keep your eyes open). A surface hoar layer was reported to have been buried at the start of January in the northern part of the region. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to have fallen off most operators' radar for now. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_1681A555"> We are skinny on field observations from your region, so submissions on our website are welcomed. Click Avalanche Information at the top of the page.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 10cm and 30cm of new snow has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. More wind and snow forecast for Sunday will add to the size and reactivity of the developing storm slab. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 40-80cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecast precipitation will add load to a layer of surface hoar buried earlier in the week that sits above a crust at and below treeline. Other persistent weak layers of surface hoar can be found deeper in the snowpack. The layer that is our greatest concern among these was formed in mid-December and before this last storm could be found above a crust and/or facets 60-90cm below the surface up to around 2000m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Two recent pulses of snow accompanied by strong S-SW winds have built deep wind slabs above a hard crust and/or surface hoar. The buried crust is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before the snow began burying it. Where the surface hoar exists, whumpfing is already indicating the touchiness of this interface. Deeper snowpack weaknesses (curst/facet and/or surface hoar layers formed in November and December) have fallen off the radar, but they could be reawakened with a very heavy load (like a cornice fall or wind slab) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area, or high elevation northerly aspects where there is no strong crust above).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Strong winds have redistributed recent storm snow into wind slabs, and rain has saturated the surface of the snowpack to at least treeline elevations. As temperatures cool, the below treeline snowpack may gain some strength. Above treeline, a buried rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down about 30-50 cm. A deeper crust/facet layer (buried mid-December) seems to have dropped off most operators' radar for the time being. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may still be reactive in areas with a shallow snowpack, or with a very heavy load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 10 and 25cm of new snow fell on Friday night. The new snow, which has been blown into deeper deposits in lee terrain, overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar, a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes, and/or wind affected surfaces in the alpine. More snow and wind forecast for Sunday will add to the size and reactivity of this developing storm slab. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent snow and strong SW winds have led to wind slabs in wind-affected terrain and storm slabs elsewhere. These overlie a hard crust and/or surface hoar. Easy and propagating results in snowpack tests show the potential for avalanches to fail at this interface below the storm snow. Wind slabs and storm slabs may be easy to trigger with the weight of a person or snowmobile. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night. The new snow, which has been distributed into deeper deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain, overlies widespread 5-15mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 50-90cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Although less likely to trigger, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion as an avalanche at this interface may have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35cm of new snow has buried widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes. In higher elevation terrain, strong winds have shifted the new accumulations into reactive storm slabs. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 80-120cm below the surface, and may still be sensitive to human triggering. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive in the south of the region at and below treeline. In these locations the surface hoar is more likely to sit directly above a hard crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent snow and wind added a moderate load to a layer of surface hoar and or facets that was buried earlier in the week and can now be found down 20-40cm. In many places these week crystals sit above a thin crust that can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer can be found between 70 and 130cm down. While it is deeper and less likely to be triggered by people, step down avalanche are possible. Near the base of the snowpack the facet/crust combo formed in November appears to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fresh wind slabs are forming in lee features at alpine and treeline. The weekend storms hid a layer of surface hoar and/or a crust that exists in many places up to 1900m. At higher elevations the new slow fell on widely wind affected surfaces. The midpack is broken by a thick crust down 40-80cm that was buried in mid-December. In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches are possible on this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November seems to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The Storm was a bit of a let down with only 10-15cm of snow falling at higher elevations. Valley floors saw minimal new snow. The 0116SH is now buried down 10-15cm at treeline and below with the 1213CR down 40cm. A layer of facets overlying this crust continues to produce moderate sudden collapse results and we expect this problem to persist for some time. This areas continue to get weaker and facet out and most of the Alpine areas are wind affected. Some &quot;good&quot; skiing may be found in sheltered areas at treeline and below but you have to be creative to be able to find these areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent rain has saturated the snow pack. The snowpack is well below seasonal average. Reported snow depths are approximately 120 cm at mountaintop, while snow depths below treeline are still below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3D888173">Strong southerly winds are building wind slabs, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects (other aspects may be getting cross-loaded or variable local wind effects too, so keep your eyes open). A surface hoar layer was reported to have been buried at the start of January in the northern part of the region. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to have fallen off most operators' radar for now. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_1681A555"> We are skinny on field observations from your region, so submissions on our website are welcomed. Click Avalanche Information at the top of the page.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 15cm and 40cm of new snow has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes. Strong winds have blown these accumulations into deeper deposits in higher elevation terrain. The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 40-80cm below the new snow and remains sensitive to human triggering is some areas. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The weekend storms added a modest load to a layer of surface hoar siting above a crust at and below treeline. Moderate southwest winds loaded lee features. The midpack is broken by several deeper weak layers of surface hoar. The layer that continues to be our greatest concern among these was formed in mid-December and can be found above a crust and/or facets between 70 and 130cm below the surface up to an elevation of about 2000m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Two recent pulses of snow accompanied by strong S-SW winds have built deep wind slabs above a hard crust and/or surface hoar. The buried crust is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before the snow began burying it. Where the surface hoar exists, whumpfing indicates the touchiness of this interface. Deeper snowpack weaknesses (curst/facet and/or surface hoar layers formed in November and December) have fallen off the radar, but they could be reawakened with a very heavy load (like a cornice fall or wind slab) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area, or high elevation northerly aspects where there is no strong crust above).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Strong winds have redistributed recent storm snow into wind slabs, and rain has saturated the surface of the snowpack to around 1000 m. If temperatures cool, the snowpack below treeline may gain some strength. Above treeline, a buried rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down about 50 cm. Observations of the strength at this interface have been limited. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may still be reactive in areas with a shallow snowpack, or with a very heavy load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night. The new snow, which has been distributed into deeper deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain, overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically 80-130cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, although an avalanche at this interface may have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent snowfall amounts vary from north to south with an average of 25-35 cm of new snow near the Duffey Lake Road and 40-60 cm in the Cascades (Coquihalla and Allison Pass). Strong W-SW winds have formed deep and dense wind slabs in wind-affected terrain. The fresh storm and wind slabs overlie a hard crust and/or surface hoar. Recent snowpack tests show the potential for riders to trigger avalanches at this interface below the storm snow. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 5-15mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-110cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Although less likely to trigger, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion as an avalanche at this interface may have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions, especially in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 90-130cm below the surface.. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive in the south of the region at and below treeline. In these locations the surface hoar is more likely to sit directly above a hard crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">30-40cm of recent storm snow sits on the mid-Jan surface hoar layer. In many places the surface hoar sits above a thin crust that can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer can typically be found down 70-100cm. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to have become isolated but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears has been the most reactive at and just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30cm of new snow fell over the weekend.&nbsp; Fresh wind slabs have formed in lee features at alpine and isolated areas at treeline. The storm snow buried a layer of surface hoar and/or a crust that exists in many places up to 1900m. At higher elevations the new slow fell on widely wind affected surfaces. The mid-December crust layer is down 40-80cm.&nbsp; In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches remain possible on this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November seems to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 10cm of new snow in the past 24 to 36hrs has further buried the Jan 16th surface hoar layer which is now down 20 to 30cm at treeline. Moderate to strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in Alpine areas and open areas at Treeline. Where buried surface hoar exists, these slabs will be quite touchy to human triggering. A layer of facets remains above the December 13th crust now down 40 to 50cm is still producing moderate sudden collapse results. This will be a key layer to watch for the next little while. Alpine areas remain heavily wind effected.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. The surface may be refrozen at higher elevations.&nbsp; The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches expect possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3D888173">Strong southerly winds are building wind slabs, generally depositing snow on N and NE aspects (other aspects may be getting cross-loaded or variable local wind effects too, so keep your eyes open). A surface hoar layer was reported to have been buried at the start of January in the northern part of the region. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to have fallen off most operators' radar for now. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 15cm and 40cm of recent snowfall has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes. Strong winds have blown these accumulations into deeper deposits in higher elevation terrain. Due to the underlying surface hoar, I would expect continued touchy conditions, especially in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30cm of recent storm snow sits on the mid-January surface hoar layer. Below around 1800m elevation, a melt-freeze crust sits below the surface hoar.  Moderate-to-strong SW winds have redistributed the storm snow in the alpine and have loaded leeward features. The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is down 70-130cm. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in isolated areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Two recent pulses of snow accompanied by strong S-SW winds have built deep wind slabs above a hard crust and/or surface hoar. The buried crust is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before the snow began burying it. Where the surface hoar exists, whumpfing indicates the touchiness of this interface. Deeper snowpack weaknesses (curst/facet and/or surface hoar layers formed in November and December) have fallen off the radar, but they could be reawakened with a very heavy load (like a cornice fall or wind slab) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area, or high elevation northerly aspects where there is no strong crust above).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Strong winds have redistributed recent storm snow into wind slabs, and rain has saturated the surface of the snowpack to around 1000 m. If temperatures cool, the snowpack below treeline may gain some strength. Above treeline, a buried rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down about 50 cm. Observations of the strength at this interface have been limited. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may still be reactive in areas with a shallow snowpack, or with a very heavy load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically 80-130cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, although an avalanche at this interface may have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall amounts vary from north to south with an average of 25-35 cm of new snow near the Duffey Lake Road and 40-60 cm in the Cascades (Coquihalla and Allison Pass). Strong W-SW winds created deep and dense wind slabs in wind-affected terrain. The fresh storm and wind slabs overlie a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer. The bond to the crust could be somewhat variable but many observers report a good bond. Where surface hoar is present (possibly above the crust) the storm slab has been more reactive to ski testing on steep unsupported features. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies a weak layer that comprises 5-15 mm surface hoar that lies above a crust in many areas, especially on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread. It has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity, and is also consistently producing easy &quot;pop&quot; type failures in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 60 to 110cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Avalanches were reported to have stepped down to this layer during and after the most recent storm cycle. Although it has become less likely to trigger, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly in the 1700-1900 m elevation band, as a release on this layer would result in very high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions, especially in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 90-130cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive in the south of the region at and below treeline. In these locations the surface hoar is more likely to sit directly above a hard crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Around 30cm of recent storm snow sits on the mid-Jan surface hoar layer. In many places the surface hoar sits above a thin crust that can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer can typically be found down 70-100cm. The reactivity of this deep persistent weak layer appears to have become isolated but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer has been the most reactive at and just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of new snow fell over the weekend. Strong winds have redistributed the new snow in exposed terrain and wind slabs have formed in lee features at alpine and isolated areas at treeline. The storm snow buried a layer of surface hoar and/or a crust that exists in many places up to 1900m. At higher elevations the new slow fell on widely wind affected surfaces. The mid-December crust layer is down 40-80cm. In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches remain possible on this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No new snow today. The buried surface hoar layer is a concern. Its depth varies considerably from area to area. At treeline, it may be down as much as 30cm. The two other persistent problems are deeper, but not as concerning at the moment. The Dec 13th will be down 60cm at treeline and the Nov 6th will be just above the ground. Average snow depths range from 60cm at valley bottom to 110 at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain over the weekend has saturated the snowpack. The surface may be refrozen at higher elevations.&nbsp; The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong southerly winds are building wind slabs, generally depositing snow on NW-NE aspects (other aspects may be getting cross-loaded or variable local wind effects too, so keep your eyes open). A surface hoar layer was reported to have been buried at the start of January in the northern part of the region. This may be around 20-40 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to have fallen off most operators' radar for now. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas with heavy loading and warming this week. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 15cm and 40cm of recent snowfall has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes. Strong winds have blown these accumulations into deeper deposits in higher elevation terrain. Due to the underlying surface hoar, I would expect continued touchy conditions, especially in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30cm of recent storm snow sits on the mid-January surface hoar layer. Below around 1800m elevation, a melt-freeze crust sits below the surface hoar. Moderate-to-strong SW winds have redistributed the storm snow in the alpine and have loaded leeward features. The early-January crust/surface hoar layer is typically down around 40-60cm and the mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is down 70-100cm.&nbsp; These layers remain reactive in some areas and still have the potential to release large, destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow sits on a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer. Strong SW winds redistributed snow in exposed terrain creating deep and dense wind slabs in lee features. The new snow seems to be bonding well to the crust, which is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before the snow began burying it. Where the surface hoar exists, whumpfing indicates the touchiness of this interface. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have fallen off the radar, but they could be reawakened with a very heavy load (like a cornice fall or wind slab) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30-50 cm of recent storm snow has fallen in the past couple days, with much more expected this week. The new snow was relatively light initially but we may see heavier moist snow fall as temperatures start to rise, leaving us with an 'upside down' slab situation. Recent moderate or strong SW winds have created dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded terrain. A buried rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down about 50-60 cm. Observations of the strength at this interface have been limited. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may still be reactive in areas with a shallow snowpack, or with a very heavy load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically 80-130cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, although an avalanche at this interface may have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A sun crust or surface hoar now caps the 30-50 cm of previous storm snow. Deep and dense wind slabs in are likely in exposed wind-affected terrain from strong W-SW winds. The fresh storm and wind slabs overlie a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer. The bond to the crust could be somewhat variable but many observers report a good bond. Where surface hoar is present (possibly above the crust) the storm slab has been more reactive to ski testing on steep unsupported features. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow fell during the most recent storm over the weekend. It was distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. A weak layer that comprises feathery surface hoar crystals up to 15 mm lies directly below the recent storm snow and sits above a crust in many areas, especially on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for most of the recent avalanche activity. It has also been consistently producing easy &quot;pop&quot; type failures in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 60 to 110cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Avalanches were reported to have stepped down to this layer during and after the most recent storm cycle. Although it has become less likely to trigger, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly in the 1700-1900 m elevation band. A release on this layer would have very high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions, especially in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 90-130cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive in the south of the region at and below treeline. In these locations the surface hoar is more likely to sit directly above a hard crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Around 30cm of snow sits on the mid-Jan surface hoar layer. In many places the surface hoar sits above a thin crust that can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. Strong SW winds during the storm loaded leeward features and the persistent slab may be 50-60cm thick in wind loaded areas (typically north through east aspects). A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer can typically be found down 70-100cm. The reactivity of this deep persistent weak layer appears to have become isolated but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer has been the most reactive at and just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of snow fell last weekend. Moderate-to-strong SW wind has and will continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and will continue to load leeward features. The storm snow buried a layer of surface hoar and/or a crust that exists in many places up to 1900m. At higher elevations the new slow fell on widely wind affected surfaces. The mid-December crust layer is down 40-80cm. In many places this crust is overlaid by facets and/or surface hoar. In areas where the overlying slab is thick and cohesive, large avalanches remain possible on this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain last weekend saturated the snowpack. The surface may be refrozen at higher elevations. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Periods of heavy snow (or rain at lower elevations) and strong southerly ridge winds are building deep and dense storm/wind slabs. The slab may be 'upside down' with moist or wet snow blanketing the previous dry low-density snow. A surface hoar layer, buried at the start of January in the northern part of the region, may be around 40-60 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to have fallen off most operators' radar for now. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust-facet combination that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas with heavy loading and warming this week. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 15cm and 40cm of recent snowfall has buried widespread 10-20mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun exposed slopes. Strong winds have blown these accumulations into deeper deposits in higher elevation terrain. Due to the underlying surface hoar, I would expect continued touchy conditions, especially in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer is near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30cm of snow sits on the mid-January surface hoar layer. Below around 1800m elevation, a melt-freeze crust sits under the surface hoar. Moderate-to-strong SW wind has and will continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and will continue to load leeward features. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas. The recent storm snow may be contributing to the increased sensitivity of this layer and there has been some large avalanches releasing on this layer in the last few days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow sits on a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer. Previous strong W-SW winds redistributed snow in exposed terrain creating deep and dense wind slabs in lee features. The new snow seems to be bonding well to the crust, which is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before it was buried. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have fallen off the radar, but they could be reawakened with a very heavy load (like a cornice fall or wind slab) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy snowfall (with rain below 1000 m) and strong southwest winds will build deep and dense storm/wind slabs throughout the week. The slab will likely be 'upside down' with warming temperatures dropping moist or dense snow on previous dry lower-density snow. A buried rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down about 60-80 cm. Observations of the strength at this interface have been limited. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may 'wake up' with intense loading this week. There is potential for isolated very large and deep avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow has fallen since Friday night, and has been distributed by strong winds into deeper, more cohesive deposits in higher wind-exposed terrain. The new snow overlies widespread 10-30mm surface hoar and a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. I would expect continued touchy conditions in areas where the recent snowfall exists as a cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically 80-130cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, although an avalanche at this interface may have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A sun crust or surface hoar caps the 30-50 cm of settling storm snow or faceted powder. Deep and dense wind slabs are likely bonding poorly to another hard crust and/or surface hoar layer in exposed wind-affected terrain. The bond to the crust could be somewhat variable but many observers report a good bond. Where surface hoar is present (possibly above the crust) the storm slab has been more reactive to ski testing on steep unsupported features. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50 cm of new snow fell during the most recent storm over the weekend. It was initially distributed by strong winds into wind slab deposits, and in many places has consolidated into a denser slab with warm alpine temperatures. A weak layer that comprises feathery surface hoar crystals up to 15 mm lies directly below the recent storm snow and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for most of the recent avalanche activity. It has also been consistently producing easy &quot;pop&quot; type failures in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 60 to 110cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Avalanches were reported to have stepped down to this layer during and after the most recent storm cycle. Although it has become less likely to trigger, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly in the 1700-1900 m elevation band. A release on this layer would have very high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow fell last weekend that was initially distributed into wind slab deposits. Since then, warm temperatures have settled the upper snowpack into a moderately dense slab. The new snow overlies a layer of surface hoar which may sit on top of a crust, particularly on sunny aspects. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for most of the recent avalanche activity. It has also been consistently producing easy &quot;pop&quot; type failures in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 90-130cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but the potential for large, destructive avalanches still exists in some areas, particularly in the 1600-1900 m elevation band. The layer appears to be the most reactive in the south of the region and in zones where the surface hoar was observed to sit directly above a hard crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">Around 30cm of snow sits on the mid-Jan surface hoar layer. In many places the surface hoar sits above a thin crust that can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. Strong SW winds during the storm loaded leeward features and the persistent slab may be 50-60cm thick in wind loaded areas (typically north through east aspects). A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer can typically be found down 70-100cm. The reactivity of this deep persistent weak layer appears to have become isolated but still has the potential for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer has been the most reactive at and just below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate-to-strong SW wind has and will continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and will continue to load leeward features. In sheltered areas, 10-20cm of snow overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. Tests indicate that this layer is still reactive and isolated large avalanches continue to release on this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant but may still be reactive in isolated areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not a whole lot of change when it doesnt snow.  Widespread hard slabs in alpine terrain overlying weak facetted crystals and depth hoar.  At treeline there are two layers of concern, the Jan 16th SH layer which was found up to 2300m and is now down 20-30cm in the snowpack and the Dec 13th Crust which is down 40-50cm with a weak layer of facetted grains overlying it.  Generally, still looks like early season out there even though its the middle of the season...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain last weekend saturated the snowpack. The surface may be refrozen at higher elevations. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have promoted rapid slab settlement and wet loose surface snow at lower elevations, while southwest winds continue to build slabs on leeward slopes with cornices overhead in exposed treeline and alpine terrain. A recent report from the Ashman area mentioned whumpfs and other signs of instability associated with roughly 30 cm of recent snow rapidly settling into a slab under warm temperatures and significant wind. A surface hoar layer buried at the start of January may be around 40-60 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to be unreactive for the time being. Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas with heavy loading and warming. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 15cm and 40cm of recent snowfall fell during the last major storm last weekend. Wind slab deposits have been consistently reported in alpine areas. This new snow buried a prominent layer of surface hoar, which sits above a sun crust on steep sun-exposed slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer has been responsible for most of the recent avalanche activity. Reports do indicate that this layer is starting to gain some strength in this region, becoming more difficult to trigger when ski-cutting small slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but the potential still exists for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer comprising facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30cm of snow sits on the mid-January surface hoar layer. Below around 1800m elevation, a melt-freeze crust sits under the surface hoar. Moderate-to-strong SW wind has and will continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and will continue to load leeward features. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas. The recent storm snow may be contributing to the increased sensitivity of this layer and there has been some large avalanches releasing on this layer in the last few days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow sits on a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer. Previous strong W-SW winds redistributed snow in exposed terrain creating deep and dense wind slabs in lee features. The new snow seems to be bonding well to the crust, which is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before it was buried. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive, but a recent profile posted in </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.wayneflannavalancheblog.com/2015/01/january-22-2015.html" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Wayne Flann's avalanche blog</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> highlights the stark hardness contrast between a deep persistent weakness and the surrounding snow. Scenarios like this with deeply buried soft snow surrounded by hard snow aren't confidence inspiring because it all hinges on the strength of the overlying slab, which is often volatile and susceptible to significant warming and loading. Especially with very heavy triggers (like a cornice fall) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy snowfall (with rain below  approximately 1500-1000 m) and strong southwest winds have built fresh deep and dense storm and wind slabs. The slabs are likely 'upside down' with warm temperatures dropping moist dense snow on previous dry lower-density snow. A  rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-December is down around a metre. Recent reports mention that this weakness has become 'electric' with recent heavy loading and has been responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may 'wake up' with intense loading this week. There is potential for isolated very large and deep avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 50cm of new snow fell last weekend and was initially distributed into wind slab deposits. Since then, warm temperatures have settled the upper snowpack into a moderately dense slab. The new snow overlies a layer of surface hoar which may sit on top of a crust, particularly on sun-exposed slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for most of the recent avalanche activity. It has also been consistently producing easy &quot;pop&quot; type failures in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now typically 80-130cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, although the fact that avalanches were still noted on this layer from the last storm cycle suggests we still need to factor this layer into our decision making process. It has been most reactive in the 1600-1900 m elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm snow is sitting on a sun crust or surface hoar that caps the 30-50 cm of settling storm snow or faceted powder. Deep and dense wind slabs are likely bonding poorly to another hard crust and/or surface hoar layer in exposed wind-affected terrain. The bond to the crust could be somewhat variable but many observers report a good bond. Where surface hoar is present (possibly above the crust) the storm slab has been more reactive to ski testing on steep unsupported features. Deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, but seem to be dormant for the time being.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist new snow and rain forecast for this weekend will fall on a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer that comprises feathery surface hoar crystals up to 15 mm lies buried between 40 and 60 cm below the surface, and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity and I anticipate it to be active through the weekend as it is loaded by new snow and rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 60 to 110cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Avalanches were reported to have stepped down to this layer during and after the most recent storm cycle. With additional loading and warm temperatures, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly in the 1700-1900 m elevation band. A release on this layer would have very high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist new snow and rain forecast for this weekend will fall on a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer that comprises feathery surface hoar crystals up to 15 mm lies buried between 30 and 50 cm below the surface, and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity and I anticipate it to be active through the weekend as it is loaded by new snow and rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 90 to 130 cm below the surface and continues to produce clean shears at and below treeline. Avalanches were reported to have stepped down to this layer during and after the most recent storm cycle. With additional loading and warm temperatures, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly in the 1600-1900 m elevation band. A release on this layer would have very high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_17AE1194">The new snow is sitting on a 20-30cm persistent slab that sits over the touchy mid-Jan surface hoar layer. In many places the surface hoar sits above a thin crust that can be found up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. Strong SW winds during the storm loaded leeward features and the persistent slab may be 50-60cm thick in wind loaded areas (typically north through east aspects). A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer was typically down 70-100cm before the storm. This layer has produced some large avalanches recently and is expected to become quite reactive with the additional loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate-to-strong SW winds have and will continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and will continue to load leeward features. In sheltered areas, 10-20cm of snow overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. Tests indicate that this layer is still reactive and isolated large avalanches continue to release on this interface. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant but may still be reactive in isolated areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Today's trip went to Commonwealth ridge. At treeline, there was 94cm of snow with the Dec 13th crust down 25cm. There was no surface hoar found at this location, however it is out there in specific areas. Tests gave mostly moderate results indicating the potential for avalanches on the Dec 13 layer. The deeper basal layers are there, but seem to be hanging in there in terms of improving strength. Near the end of the day winds picked up and there was even some light rain at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain is saturating what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have promoted rapid slab settlement and wet loose surface snow at lower elevations, while southwest winds continue to build slabs on leeward slopes with cornices overhead in exposed treeline and alpine terrain. A recent report from the Ashman area mentioned whumpfs and other signs of instability associated with roughly 30 cm of recent snow rapidly settling into a slab under warm temperatures and significant wind. A surface hoar layer buried at the start of January may be around 40-60 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to be unreactive for the time being. Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas with heavy loading and warming. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist new snow and rain forecast for this weekend will fall on a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer that comprises feathery surface hoar crystals lies buried between 25 and 50 cm below the surface. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer has been responsible for most of the recent avalanche activity. While reports do indicate that this layer is starting to gain some strength in this region, becoming more difficult to trigger when ski-cutting small slopes, I'd still bet on this layer being active during the forecast periods of warming and rain through the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this persistent weak layer appears to be quite variable but the potential still exists for large, destructive avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer comprising facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30cm of snow sits on the mid-January surface hoar layer. Below around 1800m elevation, a melt-freeze crust sits under the surface hoar. This layer has not been producing many avalanches but may become a concern with additional loading. Moderate-to-strong SW wind have and will continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and will continue to load leeward features. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas. The recent storm snow may be contributing to the increased sensitivity of this layer and there has been some large avalanches releasing on this layer in the last few days. The mid-Nov layer near the base of the snowpack is generally dormant but isolated avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stormy weather is forecast to continue and add to the 50 cm of settled storm snow that sits on a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer. Previous strong W-SW winds redistributed snow in exposed terrain creating deep and dense wind slabs in lee features. The new snow seems to be bonding well to the crust, which is most pronounced between about 1500 m and 2200 m. The distribution of the surface hoar seems spotty across the region, but some operators found it to be widespread in their tenure before it was buried. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive, but a recent snow profile highlights the stark hardness contrast between a deep persistent weakness and the surrounding snow. Scenarios like this with deeply buried soft snow surrounded by hard snow aren't confidence inspiring because it all hinges on the strength of the overlying slab, which is often volatile and susceptible to significant warming and loading. Especially with very heavy triggers (like a cornice fall) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy snowfall (with rain below approximately 1500-1000 m) and strong southwest winds have built fresh deep and dense storm and wind slabs. The slabs are likely 'upside down' with warm temperatures dropping moist dense snow on previous dry lower-density snow. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-December is down around a metre. Recent reports mention that this weakness has become 'electric' with recent heavy loading and has been responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may 'wake up' with intense loading this week. There is potential for isolated very large and deep avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist new snow and rain forecast for this weekend will fall on a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer that comprises feathery surface hoar crystals lies buried between 30 and 50 cm below the surface, and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity and I anticipate it to be active through the weekend as it is loaded by new snow and rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now typically 80-130cm below the surface. While snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, avalanches were still noted on this layer from the last storm cycle, which suggests we still need to factor this layer into our decision making process. It has been most reactive in the 1600-1900 m elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> 30-50 cm of settled storm snow has now been saturated by rain up to about 2000m. At the highest elevations, moist snowfall throughout Saturday was likely shifted into wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in January. The bond at this interface will be variable and largely elevation dependant, as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although unlikely to trigger, deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, especially in areas where the snowpack is rain-soaked.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 20 and 35 cm of new snow (and possibly rain at lower elevations) fell in the last storm which I suspect is rapidly settling into a soft slab. This new snow sits upon a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer of surface hoar lies buried between 60 and 90 cm below the surface, and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity. I suspect that it will continue to produce avalanches through the weekend as the snow pack adjusts to the recent snowfall and continued warm temperatures. The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 60 to 120cm below the surface and continues to pop in snow pack tests at and below treeline. Avalanches were reported to have stepped down to this layer during and after the most recent storm cycle. With additional loading and warm temperatures, I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly in the 1700-1900 m elevation band. A release on this layer would have very high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Between 20 and 30 cm of new snow (and possibly rain at lower elevations) fell in the last storm which I suspect is rapidly settling into a soft slab. This new snow sits upon a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer of surface hoar lies buried between 60 and 90 cm below the surface, and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity. I suspect that it will continue to produce avalanches through the weekend as the snow pack adjusts to the recent snowfall and continued warm temperatures. The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now typically 90-160cm below the surface. While snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, avalanches were still noted on this layer from the last storm cycle, which suggests we still need to it into our decision making process. It has been most reactive in the 1600-1900 m elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Up to 15cm new snow (likely shifted by strong W- SW winds into deeper slabs on lee aspects) overlies various surfaces including surface hoar, a thin crust, or a settled slab. Around Kootenay Pass, a freezing rain crust formed above 1750m on Saturday, getting stronger and thicker with increasing elevation. In other areas, warm temperatures may affect the upper snowpack and increase the storm slab problem, which could be touchy above the mid-Jan surface hoar layer (down about 40-60 cm). These large, well-preserved surface hoar crystals sit on a thin crust up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December continues to be a concern. This layer is typically down 80-100cm and has produced some large avalanches recently. All in all it sounds like a pretty variable and possibly troublesome snowpack. A good time to do some digging and venture gently.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate-to-strong SW winds may continue to redistribute snow in the alpine and load leeward features. In sheltered areas, 10-20cm of snow overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. Tests indicate that this layer is still reactive in some areas; and isolated large avalanches continue to release on this interface. In shallow snowpack areas, the mid-December crust is breaking down through the faceting process. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant but may still be reactive in isolated areas. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow and rotten in many places.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A very windy day today. Even valley bottom saw some snow transport. The alpine is currently being raked by extreme winds. Cornices, sluffing and windslabs can all be expected from this wind event. The transition to alpine terrain was very distinct in terms of windloading. Open areas at treeline were instantly &quot;slabby&quot;. These slabs extended well below ridgelines. On south aspects, various problem layers are becoming difficult to inspect/locate within the treeline snowpack. Generally it felt reasonably well settled with a weak base. No surprises. On other aspects, the snowpack is more obvious. The Dec crust is down 20-40 depending on wind orientation. Below treeline, the winds have had a slight effect on the snow surface but no real avalanche problems are there yet. Valley bottom snow depth is 70cm's, treeline is 90-100cm's and alpine is variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued snowfall has contributed to ongoing storm slab development. Warm temperatures have promoted rapid slab settlement, while rain has created wet loose surface snow at lower elevations. Southwest winds continue to build slabs on leeward slopes with cornices overhead in exposed treeline and alpine terrain. A recent report from the Ashman area mentioned whumpfs and other signs of instability associated with roughly 30 cm of recent snow rapidly settling into a slab under warm temperatures and significant wind. A surface hoar layer buried at the start of January may be around 40-70 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to be unreactive for the time being. Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas with heavy loading and warming. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 10 and 20 cm of new snow fell in the last storm which I suspect is rapidly settling into a soft slab. This new snow sits above a moderately dense upper snowpack . A weak layer of surface hoar crystals lies buried between 35 and 50 cm below the surface. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer has been responsible for most of the recent avalanche activity. While reports do indicate that this layer is starting to gain some strength and is becoming more difficult to trigger when ski-cutting small slopes, I suspect that we will see it produce avalanches through the weekend as the snow pack adjusts to the recent snowfall and continued warm temperatures. The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this deeper weak layer appears to be quite variable but snow pack tests indicate that it still has the potential to produce large avalanches in some areas. The layer appears to be the most reactive at and below treeline. The mid-Nov weak layer comprising facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday night's storm brought up to 20 cm at high elevations, which was affected by warmth (moistening the surface snow to ridge top), sun (loose wet releases on steep sunny slopes) and wind (minimal new wind slab today, but previously formed wind slabs and cornices lee to the SW exist). </span><span class="s_1681A555">Around 40-50 cm snow now overlies the mid-January surface hoar layer. This surface hoar sits on a crust below around 1800m. This layer has not been producing many avalanches but may become a concern with additional loading. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas. The recent storm snow and&nbsp; forecast prolonged warming may increase the chance of triggering avalanches on this layer. The mid-Nov layer near the base of the snowpack is generally dormant but isolated avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has now been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. At the highest elevations, moist snowfall throughout Saturday was shifted into wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant, as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive, but a recent snow profile highlights the stark hardness contrast between a deep persistent weakness and the surrounding snow. Scenarios like this with deeply buried soft snow surrounded by hard snow aren't confidence inspiring because it all hinges on the strength of the overlying slab, which is often volatile and susceptible to significant warming and loading. Especially with very heavy triggers (like a cornice fall) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy snowfall (with rain below approximately 1500-1000 m) and strong southwest winds have built fresh deep and dense storm and wind slabs. The slabs are likely 'upside down' with warm temperatures dropping moist dense snow on previous dry lower-density snow. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January is down around a metre. Recent reports mention that this weakness has become 'electric' with recent heavy loading and has been responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may 'wake up' with intense loading this week. There is potential for isolated very large and deep avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Between 20 and 30 cm of new snow (and possibly rain at lower elevations) fell in the last storm which I suspect is rapidly settling into a soft slab. This new snow sits upon a moderately dense upper snowpack. A weak layer of surface hoar lies buried between 40 and 80 cm below the surface, and may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This &quot;mid-January&quot; weak layer is widespread and has been the main focus for recent avalanche activity. I suspect that it will continue to produce avalanches through the weekend as the snow pack adjusts to the recent snowfall and continued warm temperatures. The still problematic mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now typically 110-160cm below the surface. While snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, avalanches were still noted on this layer from the last storm cycle, which suggests we still need to it into our decision making process. It has been most reactive in the 1600-1900 m elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has now been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. At the highest elevations, moist snowfall has been shifted into dense wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. At higher elevations where snow has fallen, this interface may still be reactive with the potential for large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although unlikely to trigger, deeper snowpack weaknesses are still on our radar, especially in areas where the snowpack is rain-soaked. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and/or rain are encouraging the recent snowfall to rapidly settle into a widespread soft slab. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in lee features at treeline and above. A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-January lies buried between 50 and 85 cm below the surface may sit above a crust, particularly on south-facing slopes. This layer has been responsible for the majority of the recent avalanche activity and I suspect that we will see it continue to produce avalanches as the snowpack adjusts to the recent load and continued warm temperatures. The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now buried anywhere from 60 to 120cm below the surface and continues to be a concern. While it appears to be gaining strength I suspect that a large enough load in the right spot may still be able to trigger this layer and I'd continue to treat this layer with respect and suspicion, particularly on open slopes at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are encouraging the recent snowfall to rapidly settle into soft slabs.  Below 1800m this snow may sit on a thin crust.  Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in lee features.  A weak layer of surface hoar above a crust buried mid-January lies between 40 and 70 cm below the surface.  This layer has been responsible for the majority of the recent avalanche activity and I suspect that we will see it continue to produce avalanches as the snow pack adjusts to the recent snowfall and continued warm temperatures. The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now typically 80 to 140cm below the surface and remains a concern. While snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, avalanches were stepping down to this layer during the last storm  suggesting that it should continue to factor  into our decision making process. I suspect that it remains mainly a concern on open slopes at and just below treeline.</span><span class="s_A8FEC758" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">10-40 cm rapidly settling recent snow overlies various surfaces including surface hoar, a thin crust, or a settled slab. Warm temperatures are affecting the surface layers and turning them moist or wet. Warming may also change the persistent slab properties such that triggering is more likely. The mid-Jan surface hoar layer is down about 20-60 cm. These large, well-preserved surface hoar crystals sit on a thin crust up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December is typically down 80-120cm and has produced some large avalanches recently. With the unusually warm temperatures and known weak layers in the snowpack, it's a good time to do some investigative digging and venture gently.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate-to-strong SW winds may continue to redistribute snow in the high alpine and load leeward features. In sheltered areas, 10-20cm of rapidly settling snow overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. Tests indicate that this layer is still reactive in some areas. Isolated large avalanches continue to release on this interface. In shallow snowpack areas, the mid-December crust is breaking down through the faceting process. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant but may still be reactive in isolated areas. In some places the basal snowpack consists entirely of sugary facets. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow and weak in many places.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Extreme West to South-West winds are moving significant amounts of snow to lee aspects at Treeline and above. Wind slab formation is on-going. A few slab avalanches were observed today and are associated with this wind-loading. Moist snow is found up to 2300m on all aspects and much higher on solar aspects. Temperatures reached well above the freezing mark at Treeline today and snowballing and small loose wet slides were observed on all aspects. The Jan 16th surface hoar and the Dec crust layers are still cause for concern, as is the Nov facets. The snowpack is settling rapidly.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued snowfall has contributed to ongoing storm slab development. Warm temperatures have promoted rapid slab settlement, while rain has created wet loose surface snow at lower elevations. Southwest winds continue to build slabs on leeward slopes with cornices overhead in exposed treeline and alpine terrain. A crust/ surface hoar combo buried in the middle of January may be around 50-80 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to be unreactive for the time being. Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November that could remain problematic, especially in shallower snowpack areas with heavy loading and warming. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are encouraging the recent snowfall to rapidly settle into a soft slab. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in lee features. A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-January lies between 35 and 50 cm below the surface. This layer has been responsible for the majority of the recent avalanche activity and I suspect that we will see it continue to produce avalanches as the snowpack adjusts to the recent snowfall and continued warm temperatures. The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is typically down 60-120cm below the surface. The reactivity of this deeper weak layer appears to be quite variable but snow pack tests indicate that it still has the potential to produce large avalanches with open slopes at treeline areas being the greatest concern. The mid-Nov weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack but has generally become inactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Up to 20 cm rapidly settling recent snow continues to be affected by warmth (moistening the surface snow to ridge top) and sun (causing loose wet releases on steep sunny slopes). Previously formed wind slabs and cornices may be found lee to the SW. At low elevations, the snowpack is becoming saturated and weak and has formed a crust in some areas. The mid-January surface hoar/crust layer, down about 40 cm, is one to watch. It may be healing or may become reactive with future loading. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas, creating some surprisingly large avalanches. The mid-Nov layer near the base of the snowpack has been sporadically active.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has now been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. At the highest elevations, moist snowfall has been shifted into dense wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. At higher elevations where snow has fallen, this interface may still be reactive with the potential for large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive, but a recent snow profile highlights the stark hardness contrast between a deep persistent weakness and the surrounding snow. Scenarios like this with deeply buried soft snow surrounded by hard snow aren't confidence inspiring because it all hinges on the strength of the overlying slab, which is often volatile and susceptible to significant warming and loading. Especially with very heavy triggers (like a cornice fall) in the wrong spot (like a thin snowpack area). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued heavy snowfall (with rain below approximately 1500-1000 m) and extreme southwest winds have built fresh deep and dense storm slabs.  A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January is down around a metre. Recent reports mention that this weakness has become reactive with recent heavy loading and has been responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but may 'wake up' with intense loading this week. There is potential for isolated very large and deep avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are encouraging the recent snowfall to rapidly settle into a soft slab. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in lee features. A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-January lies buried between 45 and 80 cm below the surface. This layer has been responsible for the majority of the recent avalanche activity and I suspect that we will see it continue to produce avalanches as the snowpack adjusts to the recent load and continued warm temperatures. The mid-December surface hoar/crust layer is now typically 80 to140cm below the surface and remains a concern. While snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas, avalanches still were releasing on this layer during the last storm cycle suggesting that it still should play into our decision making process. It has been most reactive at and just below treeline elevation band.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Surfaces may be moist or refrozen, depending on current temperatures and solar radiation. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in early January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. At higher elevations where snow has fallen, this interface may still be reactive although no recent avalanches have been reported at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses seem to have become unreactive, and should become even less of a concern if the forecast cooling trend verifies.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snow pack is settling rapidly and moist to wet snow can be found in the on all aspects and elevations. The mid-January surface hoar layer can be found between 40 and 80 cm down. It is currently my greatest concern. The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas although it remains a concern especially in open terrain at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snow pack is settling rapidly and moist to wet snow can be found on all aspects and elevations. A crust may be encountered at or just below the surface.  The mid-January surface hoar layer can be found between 40 and 70 cm down.  It is currently my greatest concern.  The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface.  Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas although it remains a concern especially in open terrain at treeline.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">10-40 cm rapidly settling recent snow overlies various surfaces including surface hoar, a thin crust, or a settled slab. Warm temperatures are affecting the surface layers and turning them moist or wet. Warming may also change the persistent slab properties such that triggering is more likely. The mid-Jan surface hoar layer is down about 20-60 cm. These large, well-preserved surface hoar crystals sit on a thin crust up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December is typically down 80-120cm and has produced some large avalanches recently. With the unusually warm temperatures and known weak layers in the snowpack, it's a good time to do some investigative digging and venture gently.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Record warm temperatures may have resulted in moist snow and an isothermal snowpack at lower elevations on Monday. High freezing levels (above mountain tops) are rapidly settling 10-20 cm of recent snow which overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. Tests indicate that this layer is still reactive in some areas. Isolated large avalanches continue to release on this interface. In shallow snowpack areas, the mid-December crust is breaking down through the faceting process. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant but may still be reactive in isolated areas. In some places the basal snowpack consists entirely of sugary facets. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow and weak in many places.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is settling as temperatures remained above freezing at Treeline elevations overnight. The snowpack is isothermal at lower elevations and in shallow snowpack regions, and is not supportive to travel. Wind slabs are prevalent in the Alpine and upper Treeline elevations due to previous extreme SW to W winds.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued snowfall has contributed to ongoing storm slab development. Warm temperatures have promoted rapid slab settlement, while rain has created wet loose surface snow at lower elevations. Southwest winds continue to build slabs on leeward slopes with cornices overhead in exposed treeline and alpine terrain. A crust/ surface hoar combo buried in the middle of January may be around 50-80 cm deep now. In the mid-pack, a crust weakness buried in mid-December seems to be unreactive for the time being. Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November that seems to have &quot;woken-up&quot; in some terrain in response to warming and heavy loading from wind and snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snow pack is settling rapidly and moist snow can be found at the surface on all aspects and elevations.  The depth of the weak layer of surface hoar and crust buried in mid-January is highly variable across the region but in most places can be found between 20 and 40 cm below the surface. It remains my greatest concern.  The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down 60 to 120cm and appears to be gaining strength.    The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack and has lately been unreactive.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Up to 20 cm rapidly settling recent snow continues to be affected by warmth (moistening the surface snow to ridge top) and sun (causing loose wet releases on steep sunny slopes). Previously formed wind slabs and cornices may be found lee to the SW. At low elevations, the snowpack is becoming saturated and weak. The mid-January surface hoar/crust layer, down about 40 cm, continues to be reactive in tests during the warming. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas, creating some surprisingly large avalanches. The mid-Nov layer near the base of the snowpack has been sporadically active. Continued warming may result in weaker bonds where crusts and surface hoar, or crusts and facets are located in the short term. Cooling after the warm spell should result in stronger bonds at the crust interfaces and may result in a new crust capping the entire snowpack in the long term.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Surfaces may be moist or refrozen, depending on current temperatures. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in early January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. At higher elevations where snow has fallen, this interface may still be reactive although no recent avalanches have been reported at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses seem to have become unreactive, and should become even less of a concern if the forecast cooling trend verifies.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ongoing heavy snowfall (with rain below approximately 1200 m) and extreme southwest winds continue to build fresh deep and dense storm slabs. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January is buried about 100cm below the surface. This weakness became reactive with recent heavy loading, and has been responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded, but has woken-up in some cases with intense loading and warm temperatures throughout the past week. There is still potential for very large and deep avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snow pack is settling rapidly and moist to wet snow can be found on all aspects and elevations. A crust may be encountered at or just below the surface. The mid-January surface hoar layer can be found between 40 and 70 cm down. It is currently my greatest concern. The mid pack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface. Snowpack tests indicate this layer is gaining strength in many areas although it remains a concern especially in open terrain at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. With more recent cooling, most surfaces will now be refrozen. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in early January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. In the north of the region, snowpack tests indicate this interface is still sensitive to triggering in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses seem to have become unreactive, and should become even less of a concern if the forecast cooling trend verifies.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose to about 2000m during the recent warm spell and that rain saturated the upper snowpack. At higher elevations sustained moderate to strong winds have formed widespread windslabs. Snow moist enough to make snowballs with has been found near the surface below 2200m and as deep as 80cm at lower elevations.  As the freezing level drops back a widespread melt freeze crust will form.  I suspect that at lower elevations warm moist snow may have destroyed the mid-January surface hoar layer.  Where it still exists it can be found down between 40 and 80 cm.  The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose to about 2800m during the recent warm spell and that rain saturated the upper snowpack.  At upper elevations the surface is heavily wind affected.  A breakable crust already exists in the alpine and as the freezing level continue to drop down to the valley floor a widespread melt freeze crust will form on all aspects and elevations.  I suspect that at lower elevations warm moist snow may have destroyed the mid-January surface hoar layer.  Where it still exists it can be found down between 40 and 80 cm.  The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The recent snow overlies various surfaces including surface hoar, a thin crust, or a settled slab. Warm temperatures are affecting the surface layers and turning them moist or wet. Continued warming has increased the likelihood of triggering the persistent weak layer of mid-Jan surface hoar layer which is down about 20-60 cm. These large, well-preserved surface hoar crystals sit on a thin crust up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December is typically down 80-120cm and has produced some large avalanches recently. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Record warm temperatures may have resulted in moist snow and an isothermal snowpack at lower elevations on Monday. High freezing levels (above mountain tops) are rapidly settling 10-20 cm of recent snow which overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. Tests indicate that this layer is still reactive in some areas. Isolated large avalanches continue to release on this interface. In shallow snowpack areas, the mid-December crust is breaking down through the faceting process. Closer to the ground a crust/facet interface that formed in November is generally dormant but may still be reactive in isolated areas. In some places the basal snowpack consists entirely of sugary facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cooler overnight temperatures formed thick crusts on the snowpack at lower elevations and thinner crusts at Treeline elevations. These crusts were breaking down on steep solar aspects by midday. The snowpack continues to settle with the mild weather. Wind slabs are dominant in Alpine areas and open areas at Treeline, especially on N and E aspects. Test results at 2180m today indicate shears down 10 to 20cm in the easy to moderate range and hard shears on the mid-December layer down 35 to 50cm (depending on aspect and elevation). The November weak basal layers remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found between 60- 100cm below the surface. This persistent weakness has been reactive with recent storm loading. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness seems to have &quot;woken-up&quot; in some terrain in response to warming and heavy loading from wind and snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose as high as 3000m during the recent warm spell and that rain may have saturated the upper snowpack.&nbsp; At higher elevations the surface is heavily wind affected.&nbsp; A breakable crust already exists in the alpine and as the freezing level continue to drop a widespread melt freeze crust will form on all aspects and elevations. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by the warm snow at lower elevations.&nbsp; Where it does exist it can be found between 20 and 50 cm below the surface.&nbsp; The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down 60 to 120cm and appears to be gaining strength.&nbsp; &nbsp; The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack.&nbsp; It has been unreactive lately.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Up to 20 cm rapidly settling recent snow continues to be affected by warmth (moistening the surface snow to ridge top) and sun (causing loose wet releases on steep sunny slopes). Previously formed wind slabs and cornices may be found lee to the SW. Northerly aspects were reported to have remained icy throughout the day on Monday in the alpine. At low elevations, the snowpack is becoming saturated and weak. The mid-January surface hoar/crust layer, down about 40 cm, continues to be reactive in tests during the warming. The mid-December crust/facet layer is typically down 70-100cm and remains reactive in some areas, creating some surprisingly large avalanches. The mid-Nov layer near the base of the snowpack has been sporadically active. Continued warming may result in weaker bonds where crusts and surface hoar, or crusts and facets are located in the short term. Cooling after the warm spell should result in stronger bonds at the crust interfaces and may result in a new crust capping the entire snowpack in the long term.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. With the forecast cooling trend, most surfaces will likely be sporting a hard melt-freeze crust. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in early January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. At higher elevations where snow has fallen, this interface may still be reactive although no recent avalanches have been reported at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses seem to have become unreactive, and should become even less of a concern if the forecast cooling trend verifies.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January can be found about 100cm below the surface. This persistent weakness has been reactive with recent storm loading, and was responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack is generally well bonded. That said, this deep and destructive layer &quot;woke-up&quot; in response to heavy snowfall, wind and warming over the last few days producing very large avalanches in isolated terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose to about 2000m during the recent warm spell and that rain saturated the upper snowpack.  At upper elevations the surface is heavily wind affected.   A breakable crust already exists in the alpine and as the freezing level continue to drop down to the valley floor a widespread melt freeze crust will form on all aspects and elevations.  I suspect that at lower elevations warm moist snow may have destroyed the mid-January surface hoar layer.  Where it still exists it can be found down between 40 and 80 cm.  The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Most surfaces now sport a hard frozen crust. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in early January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. In the north of the region, snowpack tests indicate this interface is still sensitive to triggering in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses seem to have become unreactive, and should become even less of a concern now the upper snow surface is largely frozen.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region up to 10 cm of new snow sits on a variety of old surfaces. A melt freeze crust can be found at or just below the surface up to around 2000m. I suspect that the crust is breakable at treeline and becomes thicker and more supportive at lower elevations. Strong southwesterly winds redistributed snow in the alpine forming windslabs in lee features. The mid-January surface hoar layer remains a concern and can be found down between 40 and 80 cm. I suspect that this layer may have been destroyed by moist/wet snow bellow treeline. The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer 80 to 140cm below the surface. This layer appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose to between 2400 and 2800m during the recent warm spell and that rain saturated the upper snowpack. Above this elevation the surface is heavily wind effected. A breakable crust already exists in the alpine and as the freezing level continue to drop a widespread melt freeze crust is forming on all aspects and elevations. Reports indicate that riding conditions at lower elevations range for challenging to desperate. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm, however, I suspect that it may have been destroyed at lower elevations. The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 80 to 140cm below the surface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The cool down has started. Overnight freezing down to valley bottoms has created melt-freeze crusts. Strong solar radiation and warm temperatures are affecting the surface layers and turning them moist or wet. We are in a spring like diurnal freeze/thaw cycle. Periods of warming has increased the likelihood of triggering the persistent weak layer of mid-Jan surface hoar layer which is down about 20-60 cm. These large, well-preserved surface hoar crystals sit on a thin crust up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December is typically down 80-120cm and has produced some large avalanches recently. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cool down has started, with freezing levels dropping down to valley bottoms. We are in a spring like diurnal melt-freeze cycle that should cap the snowpack with a strong crust by the end of the forecast period. Record warm temperatures may have resulted in moist snow and an isothermal snowpack at lower elevations on Monday. High freezing levels (above mountain tops) have settled the near surface snow which overlies a rain crust to 1900m, facets, and/or surface hoar. The mid-December crust/facet layer is down 40-80cm. There is not much snow left below 1600 metres elevation due to the prolonged warm weather and spring like conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Crusts dominate below treeline and on solar aspects at all elevations. Solar aspects were melting again by midday today due to intense radiation. Wind slabs are widespread in the Alpine and open areas at Treeline and still seem reactive in steeper terrain. Test profile at 2200m NE asp today indicate sudden planar compression test results in the moderate range down 90cm on the Nov facets and depth hoar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. Below treeline areas are reported to be rain soaked through much of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths between 60- 100cm below the surface. This persistent weakness has been reactive with recent storm loading. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness seems to have &quot;woken-up&quot; in some terrain in response to warming and heavy loading from wind and snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose as high as 3000m during the recent warm spell and that rain may have saturated the upper snowpack. At higher elevations the surface is heavily wind affected. A breakable crust already exists in the alpine and as the freezing level continue to drop a widespread melt freeze crust will form on all aspects and elevations. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by the warm snow at lower elevations. Where it does exist it can be found between 20 and 50 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down 60 to 120cm. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The daily temperature fluctuations over the last few days have created a melt freeze cycle in the upper parts of the snowpack. This means that depending on the time of the day and the aspect, the snow surface may be either a crust or moist to wet snow. Below 1500m the snowpack is reported to be isothermal, which raises the potential for loose wet avalanches running to ground at or below this elevation. The early January crust is buried 10-20cm and exists up to 1850m. It's currently providing a smooth bed surface for wet snow to slide on and both loose and wet slab avalanches have been reported on this layer. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer can be found 70-100cm down and is believed to still have the potential to be reactive in isolated areas. There have been some recent near misses with this layer creating some large avalanches over the last couple weeks. Continued warming is likely to result in weaker bonds between persistent weak layers and overlying snow. Cooling overnight and in the early mornings should result in stronger bonds at the crust interfaces and snow surface, resulting in a general improvement in snow stability. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Cooling appears to have frozen the snow surface into a hard crust above 1300 m or so; you may still be able to find moist snow below that. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New cornice development has also been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The older storm snow overlies a hard crust and/or surface hoar layer which formed in early January. The bond at this interface will be largely elevation dependant as rain may have penetrated the snowpack enough to dissolve the crust in many areas. At higher elevations where snow has fallen, this interface may still be reactive although no recent avalanches have been reported at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses seem to have become unreactive, and should become even less of a concern as the upper snowpack cools and sets into a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January can be found about 100cm below the surface, the depth varying greatly depending on whether the slope is wind-loaded or wind-scoured. This persistent weakness was very reactive during the last storm loading, and was responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The structure of this layer has been reported to have been changing rapidly, and this is consistent with a warm, rapid loading event such as the one last weekend. Still, I would recommend giving this layer a little more time to bond before discounting it from the avalanche equation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack was thought to be well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer &quot;woke-up&quot; in response to heavy snowfall, wind and warming over the last few days producing very large avalanches in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">I suspect that freezing levels rose to between 2000 and 2400m during the recent warm spell and that rain saturated the upper snowpack. Above this elevation the surface is heavily wind effected. A breakable crust can already be found at treeline and as the freezing level continues to drop a widespread melt freeze crust is forming. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm, however, I suspect that it may have been destroyed at lower elevations. The midpack is broken by the mid-December surface hoar layer that is now 70 to 140cm below the surface. This layer appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Pretty much all snow surfaces now sport a hard frozen crust. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. Very low down you might find some areas where only a thin crust overlies moist or wet snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For now, at least, deeper snowpack weaknesses have been largely rendered inactive by the strong capping crust layer. If there is an area of concern, it would be in the north of the region near Goldbridge, where a deep persistent slab from 26-Jan was remote-triggered on surface hoar buried 70 cm below the surface. Steep convexities and thin-to-thick trigger areas in the high alpine may still have the potential to release a slab in this part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">After a recent bout of intense warming and rain, cooler temperatures have left a supportive crust below about 2000 m. At higher elevations, recently formed wind slabs may be found lee to the south-west. Although warming and subsequent cooling have helped strengthen the snowpack, the mid-January surface hoar layer remains a concern and can be found down between 40 and 80 cm. The mid-December surface hoar layer is 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Variable crusts exist at most elevations, ranging from breakable to supportive. Above about 2300 m, you might find some wind-affected snow and cornices. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but in other spots it still produces sudden (pops) results in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to trigger (but still has the potential for a large avalanche if triggered).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The cool down has started. Overnight freezing down to valley bottoms has created melt-freeze crusts. Strong solar radiation and warm temperatures are affecting the surface layers and turning them moist or wet. We are in a spring like diurnal freeze/thaw cycle. Periods of warming has increased the likelihood of triggering the persistent weak layer of mid-Jan surface hoar layer which is down about 20-60 cm. These large, well-preserved surface hoar crystals sit on a thin crust up to about 1900m on north aspects and all the way to ridgeline on south aspects. A deeper crust/surface hoar combo buried in mid-December is typically down 80-120cm and has produced some large avalanches recently. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Previous rain and the recent daily temperature fluctuations over the last few days have created a melt freeze cycle in the upper parts of the snowpack. These warm conditions have decimated the lower elevation snowpack and the threshold for avalanches has risen to approximately 1600m, potentially higher on solar aspects up to 1800m. In most areas of the region a new crust has formed on the surface of the snowpack right up to the lower alpine and on all solar aspects. The early January crust is buried 10-20cm and exists up to 1850m. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-80cm and remains reactive in isolated areas. This layer has proven easier to trigger from thin, shallow, rocky areas and on slopes currently affected by sun and warming. There have been some recent near misses with this layer creating some large avalanches over the last couple weeks. The forecast cooling trend should bring with it a general increase in snow stability in the upper snowpack, and decreased avalanche hazard. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wide wide wide widespread wind affect in Alpine terrain and into treeline areas.  A thin temperature crust can be found on the surface throughout the region on all aspects up to 2400m and on solar aspects up to 2900m.  At a profile on Thursday near Three Isle lake we found the 0116SH down 25cm and coming out CTM(11)(SP) and a more moderate RP result on the 1213CR down 50cm.  Windward slopes are as stripped as I've ever seen them personally and below treeline, the snowpack is a mixture of crusts and breakable facets.  Overall, not a pretty picture but thats just honest.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. Below treeline areas are reported to be rain soaked through much of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths between 60- 100cm below the surface. This persistent weakness has been reactive with recent storm loading. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness seems to have &quot;woken-up&quot; in some terrain in response to warming and heavy loading from wind and snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">A melt-freeze crust exists up to around 2300 m, overlying moist snow. At higher elevations the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at lower elevations. Where it does exist it can be found between 20 and 50 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Previous rain and the recent daily temperature fluctuations over the last few days have created a melt freeze cycle in the upper parts of the snowpack. In most areas of the region a new crust has formed on the surface of the snowpack right up to the alpine. The early January crust is buried 10-20cm and exists up to 1850m. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer can be found 70-100cm down and remains reactive in isolated areas. This layer has proven easier to trigger from thin, shallow, rocky areas and on slopes currently affected by sun and warming.  There have been some recent near misses with this layer creating some large avalanches over the last couple weeks. The forecast cooling trend should bring with it a general increase in snow stability in the upper snowpack, and decreased avalanche hazard.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Cooling has frozen the snow surface into a hard crust at most elevations. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. At very low elevations, or on south-facing slopes during the day, you might find some areas with moist or wet snow on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For now, at least, deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January can be found about 100cm below the surface, the depth varying greatly depending on whether the slope is wind-loaded or wind-scoured. This persistent weakness was very reactive during the last storm loading, and was responsible for much of the recent large avalanche activity. The structure of this layer has been reported to have been changing rapidly, and this is consistent with a warm, rapid loading event such as the one last weekend. Still, I would recommend giving this layer a little more time to bond before discounting it from the avalanche equation. The November crust near the bottom of the snowpack was thought to be well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer &quot;woke-up&quot; in response to heavy snowfall, wind and warming over the last few days producing very large avalanches in isolated terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">A melt-freeze crust exists up to about 2200 m, with moist snow underneath. Heavily wind affected snow sits in the alpine. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm, however it was probably destroyed at low elevations by recent warmth. Snowpack tests give variable results on this layer, with some operators reporting strengthening, while others are still seeing sudden (pops) results. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to about 2100m. Pretty much all snow surfaces now sport a hard frozen crust. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. Very low down you might find some areas where only a thin crust overlies moist or wet snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For now, at least, deeper snowpack weaknesses have been largely rendered inactive by the strong capping crust layer. If there is an area of concern, it would be in the north of the region near Goldbridge, where a deep persistent slab from 26-Jan was remote-triggered on surface hoar buried 70 cm below the surface. Steep convexities and thin-to-thick trigger areas in the high alpine may still have the potential to release a slab in this part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow is falling on a supportive crust, found below about 1900 m in the north and 2100 m in the south. At higher elevations, recently formed wind slabs may be found lee to the south-west. Recent warming and subsequent cooling have helped strengthen the mid-January surface hoar layer, but it still remains a concern, especially at high elevations. The mid-December surface hoar layer is 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength. Basal facets could be triggered with large triggers like cornice fall in specific terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow overlies variable crusts exist at most elevations, ranging from breakable to supportive. Generally small surface hoar sits on this crust. At the highest elevations, you might find some wind-affected snow and cornices. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but in other spots it still produces sudden (pops) results in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to trigger (but still has the potential for a large avalanche if triggered).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Overnight freezing down to valley bottoms has created supportive melt-freeze crusts that have been reported on all aspects up to about 2400 metres. A new layer of surface hoar has been reported to be developing. The top 5-10 cm of surface snow has been moist during the day due to strong solar radiation. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is down about 20-50 cm and continues to give planar results in snow profile tests. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 50 cm in low snowpack areas and down about 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent warm sunny conditions and high freezing levels have created a melt freeze cycle in the upper levels of the snowpack. These warm conditions have decimated the lower elevation snowpack and the threshold for avalanches has risen to approximately 1600m, potentially higher on solar aspects. In most areas of the region, a new crust has formed on the surface of the snowpack up to 1800m and up to all elevations on solar aspects. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-80cm and remains reactive in isolated areas, especially where a slab of stiffer snow has consolidated above it. This layer has proven easier to trigger from shallow and rocky areas in the alpine and treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecasters went to the Commonwealth Loop today and battled the poor snow for the whole trip. Below treeline the heat has left a widespread temperature crust. For the most part this is breakable and does not carry a skier well. The crust was found as high as 2200m. It is likely higher, but the 2200m mark is where the boiler plate windslabs started. The entire alpine is covered with very dense windslabs and sastrugi. Treeline/alpine terrain has widespread, potentially triggerable windslabs. The Dec 13 crust was found to be 15-25cm's down with  a reasonable bond. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds have built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. Below treeline, new snow accumulations may overlie a hard, re-frozen crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths between 60- 100cm below the surface. This persistent weakness has been reactive with recent storm loading. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is the crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness seems to have &quot;woken-up&quot; in some terrain in response to warming and heavy loading from wind and snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">A melt-freeze crust exists up to around 2200 m, overlying moist snow. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 20 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Previous rain and the daily temperature fluctuations over the last few days have created a melt freeze cycle in the upper parts of the snowpack. In most areas of the region a supportive crust makes up the surface of the snowpack right up to the alpine, and a new surface hoar layer has formed on top. This may make for potentially challenging downhill ski conditions but fast and easy travel by snowmobile. The cooler weather should bring with it a general increase in snow stability in the upper snowpack. The early January crust is buried 10-20cm and exists up to 1850-2050m. The mid-December crust/facet &amp; surface hoar layer can be found 70-100cm down and is suspected to still be reactive in isolated areas in the alpine. This layer has proven easier to trigger from thin, shallow and rocky areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of settled storm snow has been saturated by rain up to at least 2100m. Cooling has frozen the snow surface into a hard crust at most elevations. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. At very low elevations, or on south-facing slopes during the day, you might find some areas with moist or wet snow on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For now, at least, deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snowfall (with rain at lower elevations) and strong southwest winds have likely built deep and dense storm slabs. These storm slabs are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed, upper elevation terrain. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January can be found about 100cm below the surface, the depth varying greatly depending on whether the slope is wind-loaded or wind-scoured. The structure of this layer may have strengthened somewhat. Still, I would recommend giving this layer a little more time to bond before discounting it from the avalanche equation. The November crust/ facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow overlies various surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200 m, spotty surface hoar, or heavily wind-affected snow in the alpine. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm, however it was probably destroyed at low elevations by recent warmth. Snowpack tests give variable results on this layer, with some operators reporting strengthening, while others are still seeing sudden (pops) results. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week snow surfaces were heavily saturated by rain up to at least 2100m. Pretty much all snow surfaces now sport a hard frozen crust. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New snow and wind forecast for Sunday will likely form new wind slabs. These wind slabs may be particularly reactive due to the underlying crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses have been largely rendered inactive by the strong capping crust layer. If there is an area of concern for deeper weaknesses, it would be in the north of the region near Goldbridge, where a deep persistent slab from 26-Jan was remote-triggered on surface hoar buried 70 cm below the surface. Steep convexities and thin-to-thick trigger areas in the high alpine may still have the potential to release a slab in this part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow is falling on a supportive crust, found below about 1900 m in the north or the region and 2100 m in the south. At higher elevations south west winds have formed formed wind slabs in lee features. Recent warming and subsequent cooling have helped strengthen the mid-January surface hoar layer, but it still remains a concern, especially at high elevations. The mid-December surface hoar layer is 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength. Basal facets could be triggered with large triggers like cornice fall in specific terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow overlies variable crusts exist at most elevations, ranging from breakable to supportive. Generally small surface hoar sits on this crust. At the highest elevations, you might find some wind-affected snow and cornices. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but in other spots it still produces sudden (pops) results in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to trigger (but still has the potential for a large avalanche if triggered).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_45F62078">Recent sunny weather and high freezing levels have created a mostly supportive widespread melt-freeze crust thats been reported on all aspects up to 2400m. A widespread new layer of surface hoar up to 15mm in size is said to be developing on top of this crust. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is down about 20-50 cm and continues to give planar results in snow profile tests. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer can generally be found down around 50cm deep in low snowpack areas, and about 100cm down in deeper snowpack areas. There may still be potential to trigger this deeper layer from shallow spots and in very isolated areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_C70F60E9">Recent sunny weather and high freezing levels have decimated the lower elevation snowpack. As a result the threshold for avalanches in most of the region has risen to approximately 1600m, potentially higher on solar aspects. 4-8cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar, or a combo of both. The melt freeze crust exists up to approximately 1900m and up to all elevations on solar aspects. Time will tell, but I suspect this new layer will likely cause problems down the line and is a good one to keep in mind as it becomes buried deeper over time. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-85cm and is suspected to be reactive in isolated areas, especially where a slab of stiffer snow has consolidated above it. This layer has proven easier to trigger from shallow and rocky areas in the alpine and treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There was more new snow than expected overnight Friday. Amounts averaged 9cm's within the forecast region. This snow came in with light winds and reasonably cold temps. So far the wind has not created widespread storm slabs. The surface hoar noted in the past few days has  now been buried. It was noted yesterday that in some open, sunny areas the sun was able to melt the surface hoar. It is thought to still exist up to treeline elevations, shady aspects and open areas. Not an immediate concern, but something to watch for down the road. The new snow appears to have not bonded well to the hard windslabs. Loose dry avalanches were common today, which suggest the poor bond will be a problem. The deeper layers are unchanged in the last while.  The Dec 13 crust is down 25-35 cm's and still very apparent, but starting to break down in some areas. The Nov 6th crust/depth hoar is just off the ground, and in places completely broken down to depth hoar.  Snow depths range from 68cm's at valley bottom to 151cm's at upper treeline</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to the weekend, moderate to heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds built deep storm slabs which are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed terrain. Below treeline, these recent accumulations may overlie a hard, frozen crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 70cm below the surface, you'll likely find a rain crust which was buried on January 26. Limited observations suggest the overlying slab may have a reasonable bond at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths (in some areas over 100cm below the surface). This layer is likely gaining strength, although I would keep it on my radar as it was the culprit in much of the recent destructive avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness was also recently reactive, and may still be touchy in the far north of the region. Wherever you are, I'd be cautious of this deep and destructive layer. Possible triggers include thin spot triggering in high elevation terrain or a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">A melt-freeze crust exists up to around 2200 m, overlying moist snow. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 20 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there may sill be a chance of triggering it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_FA956E1D">Around 2-5cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar. I will definitely be keeping an eye on this new layer when it gets buried deeper in the snowpack, as I suspect it is likely to cause problems down the line. The early January crust can usually be found buried 20-35cm from the surface, and exists up to just below treeline in most areas. The mid-December crust/facet &amp; surface hoar layer can be found 70-100cm down and is suspected to still be reactive in isolated areas at upper treeline and alpine. This layer has proven easier to trigger from thin, shallow and rocky areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week snow surfaces were heavily saturated by rain up to at least 2100m. Cooling has frozen the snow surface into a hard crust at most elevations. At the highest elevations you might find dense, stubborn wind slabs in lee terrain. New snow over the next few days is expected to form new wind slabs in lee, higher elevation terrain. These wind slabs may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to the weekend, moderate to heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds built deep storm slabs which are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed terrain. More snow and wind forecast for Sunday will add to this ongoing storm slab problem.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 100cm below the surface, you'll likely find a rain crust which was buried on January 26. Limited observations suggest the overlying slab may have a reasonable bond at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths (in some areas up to 150cm below the surface). This layer is likely gaining strength, although I would keep it on my radar especially at higher elevations as it was the culprit in much of the recent destructive avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The November crust/ facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow overlies various surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200 m, spotty surface hoar, or heavily wind-affected snow in the alpine. The mid-January surface hoar remains a concern and can be found down between 30 and 80 cm, however it was probably destroyed at low elevations by recent warmth. Snowpack tests give variable results on this layer, with some operators reporting strengthening, while others are still seeing sudden (pops) results. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light to locally moderate amounts of new snow overlie a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In some areas the new accumulations may have been shifted by moderate southwest winds into new wind slabs which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35cm of new snow fell over the weekend. This new snow sits on a variety of old surfaces. A crust can found below about 1900m in the north of the region and 2200m in the south. At higher elevations the new snow covers old wind slabs formed by moderate southwest winds. Several persistent week layers can be found deeper in the snowpack but are probably protected by the overlying crust at lower elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is buried between 40 and 80cm down and remains a concern at treeline and above. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength. The base of the snowpack is faceted.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces. A crust formed last week at most elevations. In some places it was breakable in others it was supportive. A thin widespread layer of surface hoar lies above this crust. At the highest elevations the old surface was widely wind-affected. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down between 40 and 100 cm. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing sudden (popping) failures in snowpack tests. This spatial variability means we'll have to keep an eye on it for a while yet. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent sunny weather and high freezing levels have created a mostly supportive widespread melt-freeze crust thats been reported on all aspects up to 2400m. A widespread new layer of surface hoar up to 15mm in size is said to be developing on top of this crust. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is down about 20-50 cm and continues to give planar results in snow profile tests. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer can be found down around 50cm deep in low snowpack areas, and about 100cm down in deeper snowpack areas. There may still be potential to trigger this deeper layer from shallow spots and in very isolated areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_C70F60E9">Recent sunny weather and high freezing levels have decimated the lower elevation snowpack. As a result the threshold for avalanches in most of the region has risen to approximately 1600m, potentially higher on solar aspects. 4-8cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar, or a combo of both. The melt freeze crust exists up to approximately 1900m and up to all elevations on solar aspects. Time will tell, but I suspect this new layer will likely cause problems down the line and is a good one to keep in mind as it becomes buried deeper over time. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-85cm and is suspected to be reactive in isolated areas, especially where a slab of stiffer snow has consolidated above it. This layer has proven easier to trigger from shallow and rocky areas in the alpine and treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The 10-15cm of recent HST is being redistributed at higher elevations from a SW wind.  New storm slabs are building in immediate lees at higher elevations while snow in most other areas remains undisturbed by winds.  Jan 16th SH and Dec 13th CR are down 30 and 50cm and continue to produce moderate results.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to the weekend, moderate to locally heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds built deep storm slabs which may still be reactive in wind-exposed terrain. More snow and wind forecast for Sunday night and Monday will add to this ongoing storm slab problem.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 70cm below the surface, you'll likely find a rain crust which was buried on January 26. Limited observations suggest the overlying slab may have a reasonable bond at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths (in some areas over 100cm below the surface). This layer has reportedly gained significant strength, although I would keep it on my radar especially at higher elevations or in the far north of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness was recently reactive, and may still be touchy in the far north of the region. Wherever you are, I'd be cautious of this deep and destructive layer. Possible triggers include thin spot triggering in high elevation terrain, or a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is falling on a variety of old surfaces. A melt freeze crust can be found up to about 2200m. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 30 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_FA956E1D">Around 3-6cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar. I will definitely be keeping an eye on this new layer when it gets buried deeper in the snowpack, as I suspect it is likely to cause problems down the line. The early January crust can usually be found buried 20-35cm from the surface, and exists up to just below treeline in most areas. The mid-December crust/facet &amp; surface hoar layer can be found 70-100cm down and is suspected to still be reactive in isolated areas at upper treeline and alpine. This layer may remain susceptible to triggering from thin, shallow and/or rocky areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate amounts of new snow overlie a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. The new accumulations have been shifted by strong southwest winds into new wind slabs which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to the weekend, moderate to heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds built deep storm slabs which are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed terrain. More snow and wind forecast for Sunday night and Monday will add to this ongoing storm slab problem.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 100cm below the surface, you'll likely find a rain crust which was buried on January 26. Limited observations suggest the overlying slab may have a reasonable bond at this interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths (in some areas up to 150cm below the surface). This layer is likely gaining strength, although I would keep it on my radar especially at higher elevations as it was the culprit in much of the recent destructive avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The November crust/ facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow overlies various old surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200m, and heavily wind-affected snow in the high alpine.  Surface hoar was reported to be growing in isolated pockets at all elevations.  Deeper in the snowoack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern at treeline in the alpine where it can be found buried between 40 and 100 cm down. Snowpack tests give variable results on this layer. It appears to be gaining strength in many areas but it is still producing occasional sudden (popping) failures. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of new snow overlies a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In exposed terrain, the new accumulations have been shifted by strong SW winds into wind slabs which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35cm of new snow fell over the weekend. This new snow sits on a variety of old surfaces. A crust can be found below about 1900m in the north of the region and below 2200m in the south of the region. At higher elevations the new snow covers old wind slabs formed by moderate southwest winds. Several persistent week layers can be found deeper in the snowpack that may be capped by the overlying crust at lower elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is buried between 40 and 80cm down and remains a concern at treeline and above. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces. A crust formed last week at most elevations. In some places it was breakable in others it was supportive. A thin widespread layer of surface hoar lies above this crust. At the highest elevations the old surface was widely wind-affected. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down between 40 and 100 cm. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing sudden (popping) failures in snowpack tests. This spatial variability means we'll have to keep an eye on it for a while yet. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 - 10 cm of new snow fell Sunday evening into Monday accompanied by moderate SW winds. This new snow has fallen on a widespread and mostly supportive melt-freeze crust 1 - 15cm thick that is topped by 6 - 15mm surface hoar. This combo has been reported on all aspects and elevations. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is down 25-55 cm and continues to give planar results in snow profile tests. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer can be found down around 50cm deep in low snowpack areas, and about 100cm down in deeper snowpack areas. There may still be potential to trigger this deeper layer from thin spots like rock outcroppings and ridgecrests at and above treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent sunny weather and high freezing levels have decimated the lower elevation snowpack. As a result the threshold for avalanches in most of the region has risen to approximately 1600m, potentially higher on solar aspects. 4-8cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar, or a combo of both. The melt freeze crust exists up to approximately 1900m and up to all elevations on solar aspects. Time will tell, but I suspect this new layer will likely cause problems down the line and is a good one to keep in mind as it becomes buried deeper over time. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-85cm and is suspected to be reactive in isolated areas, especially where a slab of stiffer snow has consolidated above it. This layer has proven easier to trigger from shallow and rocky areas in the alpine and treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We are dealing with a complex snowpack right now. Below treeline has 16cm's of new snow sitting on top the January 31 crust. In some places we've found surface hoar on top of the crust, and in others a thin layer facets. So far the distribution of the surface hoar is unknown. Beneath the crust, the January 16th surface hoar is also present in unpredictable places. Luckily, there does not appear to be an avalanche problem with any of these layers. At treeline, the snowpack starts to have a series of windslabs that are reactive to stability tests. In today's profile (top of the Dog leg run), immediatley below the Jan 31st crust there is a thin, hard windslab that is reacting in the moderate range (CT11, SC down 20cm's). This suggests there are human triggerable windslabs out there in the right piece if terrain. At upper treeline and alpine, the winds continued to transport snow. A reverse loading pattern was noted today. The new slabs are sitting on a hardslab that likely has a poor bond. These slabs are easily spotted and avoidable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to the weekend, moderate to locally heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds built deep storm slabs which may still be reactive in wind-exposed terrain. Continued light snowfall is adding to these mature storm slabs or possibly forming new thin storm slabs. About 70cm below the surface, you'll likely find a rain crust which was buried on January 26. Limited observations suggest the overlying slab may have a reasonable bond at this interface. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths (in some areas over 100cm below the surface). This layer has reportedly gained significant strength but I would keep it on my radar, especially in thin-snowpack areas, at higher elevations, and in the far north of the region. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness was recently reactive and may still be touchy in the far north of the region. Wherever you are, I'd be cautious of this deep and potentially destructive layer. Possible triggers include thin spot triggering in high elevation terrain, a cornice fall, or a smaller avalanche stepping down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin layer of new storm snow has fallen on a variety of old surfaces, including hard crusts, breakable crusts at higher elevations, and surface hoar in some areas. A melt freeze crust can be found up to about 2200m. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 30 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 3-6cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar. I will definitely be keeping an eye on this new layer when it gets buried deeper in the snowpack, as I suspect it is likely to cause problems down the line. The early January crust can usually be found buried 20-35cm from the surface, and exists up to just below treeline in most areas. The mid-December crust/facet &amp; surface hoar layer can be found 70-100cm down and is suspected to still be reactive in isolated areas at upper treeline and alpine. This layer may remain susceptible to triggering from thin, shallow and/or rocky areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of new snow overlies a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In exposed terrain, the new accumulations have been shifted by strong SW winds into wind slabs which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Prior to the weekend, moderate to heavy snowfall and strong southwest winds built deep storm slabs which are expected to be most reactive in wind-exposed terrain. Continued light snowfall is adding to these mature storm slabs or may be forming thin new slabs. About 100cm below the surface, you'll likely find a rain crust which was buried on January 26. Limited observations suggest the overlying slab may have a reasonable bond at this interface. A rain crust and/or surface hoar layer buried mid-January may be found at variable depths (in some areas up to 150cm below the surface). This layer is likely gaining strength, although I would keep it on my radar especially in thin snowpack areas and at higher elevations as it was the bed surface for much of the recent destructive avalanche activity. The November crust/ facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow overlies various old surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200m, and heavily wind-affected snow in the high alpine. Surface hoar was reported to be growing in isolated pockets at all elevations. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern at treeline and in the alpine where it can be found buried between 40 and 100 cm down. Snowpack tests give variable results on this weak layer, it may be gaining strength in many areas but it is still producing occasional sudden (popping) failures. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20-30cm of new snow overlies a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In exposed terrain, the new accumulations have been shifted by strong SW winds into wind slabs up to 40cm thick which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab is 30-50 cm and sits on a variety of old surfaces. A crust can be found below about 1900m in the north of the region and below 2200m in the south of the region. At higher elevations the new snow covers old wind slabs formed by moderate southwest winds. Several persistent week layers can be found deeper in the snowpack that may be capped by the overlying crust at lower elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is buried between 40 and 80cm down and remains a concern at treeline and above. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thin new slabs may not be bonding well within the storm snow. Pockets of wind transported snow at ridgetops may be easy to trigger where they are sitting on the crust that formed last week. The new storm slab is up to 40 cm thick and sits above a variety of old surfaces. The old surfaces include the crust that formed last week, a new layer of surface hoar that developed during the clear weather late last week, and in some places wind slabs that developed smooth hard surfaces. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down between 40 and 100 cm. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing sudden (popping) failures in snowpack tests. This spatial variability means we'll have to keep an eye on it for a while yet. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail, the storm at the end of the week should be a good test to see if it will become active again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 - 20 cm of new snow which was initially accompanied by moderate SW winds now sits on a widespread and mostly supportive melt-freeze crust 1 - 15cm thick that is topped by 6 - 15mm surface hoar. This combo has been reported on all aspects and elevations. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is down 25-65 cm and continues to give planar results in snow profile tests. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo found down 50 - 100cm is largely unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent sunny weather and high freezing levels have decimated the lower elevation snowpack. As a result the threshold for avalanches in most of the region has risen to approximately 1600m, potentially higher on solar aspects. 4-10cm of new snow has covered up a melt freeze crust and/or surface hoar, or a combo of both. The melt freeze crust exists up to approximately 1900m and up to all elevations on solar aspects. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-85cm and is suspected to be reactive in isolated areas, especially where a slab of stiffer snow has consolidated above it. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-20cm's of new, low density snow at treeline. The underlying crust is still apparent at all elevations. In most places the crust is breakable despite the new snow. Treeline and below has no significant avalanche concerns at the moment. The warm spell locked the snow in place with the crust. At treeline the picture starts to change. The treeline/alpine transition is a bit more complex. The moderate winds have created soft slabs on all lee aspects. So far the slabs don't extend too far below ridge lines and open areas at treeline where the winds could penetrate the trees. The bond with the underlying layers seems to be hit and miss. Any slab that is on the crust seems to be bonding reasonably well and anything on an old hardslab is slower to come around. Snow depth at treeline averages 160cm's.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain has saturated what is left of the snowpack. The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30cm of new snow has fallen in the last couple days. Strong winds have redistributed this snow in exposed terrain forming winds slabs in leeward features and stripping exposed slopes. The late-January crust is typically down 60-80cm in the south of the region and probably around half this depth in the north. Tests are indicating that this interface is generally well bonded but isolated avalanches have been reported to have released on this layer recently. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 1m in the south and has generally become inactive. It may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas, at higher elevations, and in the far north of the region. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness was recently reactive and may still be touchy in the far north of the region. Wherever you are, I'd be cautious of this deep and potentially destructive layer. Possible triggers include thin spot triggering in high elevation terrain, a cornice fall, or a smaller avalanche stepping down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin layer of new storm snow (10-20 cm)has fallen on a variety of old surfaces, including hard crusts, breakable crusts at higher elevations, and surface hoar in some areas. A melt freeze crust can be found up to about 2200m. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 30 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 - 10 cm of new snow rests on a very supportive melt freeze crust that has been reported at all aspects and elevations. This crust may have surface hoar on it. The mid-December crust/facet &amp; surface hoar layer found down 70 - 100cm may still be reactive in isolated areas at and above treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20cm of new snow overlies a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In exposed terrain, the new accumulations have been shifted by strong SW winds into wind slabs which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-40cm of new snow has fallen in the last couple days. Strong winds have redistributed this snow in exposed terrain forming winds slabs in leeward features and stripping exposed slopes. The late-January crust is typically down 100-130cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. Tests are indicating that this interface is generally well bonded but isolated avalanches have been reported to have released on this layer recently. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive. It may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of new snow overlies various old surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200m, and heavily wind-affected snow in the high alpine. Surface hoar was reported to be growing in isolated pockets at all elevations. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern at treeline and in the alpine where it can be found buried between 40 and 100 cm down. Snowpack tests give variable results on this weak layer, it may be gaining strength in many areas but it is still producing occasional sudden (popping) failures. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 - 30cm of new snow overlies a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In exposed terrain, the new accumulations have been shifted by strong SW winds into wind slabs up to 40cm thick which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfalls have developed a new storm slab that is 30-50 cm thick and sits on a variety of old surfaces including crusts, surface hoar, and old wind slabs. Ski penetration has been reported to be about 50 cm in the North of the region. A crust can be found below about 1900m in the north of the region and below 2200m in the south of the region. At higher elevations the new snow covers old wind slabs formed by moderate southwest winds. Several persistent week layers can be found deeper in the snowpack that may be capped by the overlying crust at lower elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is buried between 40 and 80cm down and remains a concern at treeline and above. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thin new slabs may not be bonding well within the storm snow. Pockets of wind transported snow at ridgetops may be easy to trigger where they are sitting on the crust that formed last week. The new storm slab is up to 40 cm thick and sits above a variety of old surfaces. The old surfaces include the crust that formed last week, a new layer of surface hoar that developed during the clear weather late last week, and in some places wind slabs that developed smooth hard surfaces. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down 60-120 cm across the region, but in most places it is about one metre down. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing sudden collapse (popping) failures in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail, the storm at the end of the week should be a good test to see if it will become active again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow adds to the 5-20 cm sitting on a widespread hard crust that is topped by large surface hoar. This combo has been reported on all aspects and elevations, but so far weak slabs have been limited to wind-loaded slopes. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is down 25-65 cm and continues to give planar results in snow profile tests. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo found down 50 - 100cm is largely unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 - 10 cm of new snow is expected to fall overnight till the end of the day tomorrow. This new snow will fall over another 5 cm which is sitting on a variety of surfaces; on a surface hoar and crust combo (that I will call the “late January surface hoar/crust” further down) in more sheltered areas, on a thin breakable crust in more wind affected areas or over windslabs lee of recent southwest winds in the alpine. The windslabs in the alpine and at treeline will keep building as the snow accumulates and gets transported on lee features by the southwest winds tomorrow. I suspect the bond between the storm snow and windslabs with the underlying late January surface hoar/crust layer will be poor. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar layer is down 40-85cm and is suspected to be reactive in isolated areas, especially where a slab of stiffer snow has consolidated above it. These areas are most likely located in the alpine, where windslabs and variable snowpack depth exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Yesterday's fresh snow remains mostly untouched by winds. There are pockets of soft slab starting at upper treeline, but for the most part the new snow is still low density. The Jan 31st interface is the main concern right now. At treeline, it is down 15-25cm's. Tests revealed some facetting immediately below this Jan 31 crust (Compression Test Easy 10, SC). The lack of a windslab keeps this from being a major avalanche problem at the moment. On south aspects, the crust is up to 2400m and 1cm thick. On non-solar aspects the crust is up to 2200m. Windslabs quickly take over at that point and continue to peak height. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 - 30cm of new snow has fallen in the last couple days. Strong winds have redistributed this snow in exposed terrain forming winds slabs in leeward features and stripping exposed slopes. The late-January crust is typically down 60-80cm in the south of the region and probably around half this depth in the north. Tests are indicating that this interface is generally well bonded, but isolated avalanches have been reported to have released on this layer recently. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 1m in the south and has generally become inactive. It may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas, at higher elevations, and in the far north of the region. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness was recently reactive and may still be touchy in the far north of the region. Wherever you are, I'd be cautious of this deep and potentially destructive layer. Possible triggers include thin spot triggering in high elevation terrain, a cornice fall, or a smaller avalanche stepping down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin layer of new storm snow (10-20 cm)has fallen on a variety of old surfaces, including hard crusts, breakable crusts at higher elevations, and surface hoar in some areas. A melt freeze crust can be found up to about 2200m. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 30 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow is forecast to fall overnight till the end of the day tomorrow. This new snow will sit over another 5-10 cm covering a widespread weak layer made of surface hoar and crust (that I will call the late January surface hoar/crust further down). The windslabs reported in the alpine and at treeline will keep building as the snow accumulates and gets transported on lee features of southwest winds. I suspect the bond between the storm snow and the windslabs with the underlying late January surface hoar/crust layer will be poor and that natural avalanches will become more likely and bigger in size as the day advances. The mid-December crust/facet &amp; surface hoar layer found down 80 - 100cm may still be reactive in isolated areas at and above treeline. These areas would most likely be located at higher elevations and shaded aspects in the most northern and eastern part of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 to 30cm of new snow overlies a hard rain crust that exists up to at least 2100m. In exposed terrain, the new accumulations have been shifted by strong SW winds into wind slabs which may be especially reactive due to the underlying crust. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30- 50cm of new snow has fallen in the last few days. Strong winds have redistributed this snow in exposed terrain forming winds slabs in leeward features and stripping exposed slopes. The late-January crust is typically down 100-140cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. Tests are indicating that this interface is generally well bonded but isolated avalanches have been reported to have released on this layer recently. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive. It may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of new snow overlies various old surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200m, and heavily wind-affected snow in the high alpine. Surface hoar was reported to be growing in isolated pockets at all elevations before the new storm snow buried it around January 30th. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern at treeline and in the alpine where it can be found buried between 40 and 100 cm down. Snowpack tests give variable results on this weak layer, it may be gaining strength in many areas but it is still producing occasional sudden (popping) failures. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm initially produced 5 - 15 cm of new snow before switching to rain mid morning. Temperatures had warmed to 0 C at 1900m by early afternoon. This snow/rain combo is likely saturating the 10 to 30cm of new snow that overlies a hard rain crust which exists up to at least 2100m. Strong to extreme west/southwest winds are likely shifting the remaining cold snow at upper elevations into wind slabs. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer. We'll be watching the strength/temperature of this capping layer closely through the weekend.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm slab continues to develop and is 40-60 cm thick and sits on a variety of old surfaces including crusts, surface hoar, and old wind slabs. Ski penetration has been reported to be about 50 cm in the North of the region. A crust can be found below about 1900m in the north of the region and below 2200m in the south of the region. At higher elevations the new snow covers old wind slabs formed by moderate southwest winds. Several persistent week layers can be found deeper in the snowpack that may be capped by the overlying crust at lower elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is buried between 40 and 80cm down and remains a concern at treeline and above. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thin new slabs may not be bonding well within the storm snow. Pockets of wind transported snow at ridgetops may be easy to trigger where they are sitting on the crust that formed last week. The new storm slab is up to 40 cm thick and sits above a variety of old surfaces. The old surfaces include the crust that formed last week, a new layer of surface hoar that developed during the clear weather late last week, and in some places wind slabs that developed smooth hard surfaces. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down 60-120 cm across the region, but in most places it is about one metre down. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing sudden collapse (popping) failures in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail, the storm at the end of the week should be a good test to see if it will become active again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20-25 mm of heavy snow, or rain below 1500m, has accumulated over 10-20 cm which is sitting on a widespread weak layer made of a hard crust topped by large surface hoar (referred to as the late January crust/surface hoar layer further down).&nbsp; Significantly more load&nbsp; is expected to add on to the snowpack through the night and tomorrow (total 40-60 mm as rain up to around 2200m) driving the avalanche danger to rise and making travelling conditions very dangerous in the backcountry. The rain is expected to weaken the late January crust/surface hoar layer, therefore increasing the likelihood of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is now down 35-75 cm. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo found down 60 - 110 cm and could come out of its dormant stage making for some very large avalanche potential .</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 mm of heavy snow, or rain below 1500m, has accumulated over 5 cm which is sitting on a variety of surfaces; on a surface hoar and crust combo (referred to as the “late January surface hoar/crust” further down) in more sheltered areas, on a thin breakable crust in more wind affected areas or over windslabs on northeast aspects in the alpine. Significantly more load&nbsp; is expected to add on to the snowpack through the night and tomorrow (total 20-30 mm as rain up to around 2000m) driving the avalanche danger to rise and making travelling conditions very dangerous in the backcountry. The rain is expected to weaken the late January crust/surface hoar layer, therefore increasing the likelihood of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo found down 50-95 cm and could come out of its dormant stage making for some very large avalanche potential .</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light snow all day today has left up to 6cm's of new snow. In total, that means there is now 25-35cm's of low density snow on top of the Jan 31 interface. The temperatures were fairly warm today (-1 @ 1850m), so we can expect the new snow to settle quickly, and/or create wind slabs with only a light wind. The winds today were light at valley bottom and treeline elevations. The alpine was a different story. Weather stations all had moderate to strong wind values for most of the afternoon. Windslabs in the alpine are certain at this point. Treeline slabs are growing, but still limited to immediate lee areas and open slopes prone to cross loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 - 30cm of new snow has fallen in the last couple days. Strong winds have redistributed this snow in exposed terrain forming winds slabs in leeward features and stripping exposed slopes. The late-January crust is typically down 60-80cm in the south of the region and probably around half this depth in the north. Tests are indicating that this interface is generally well bonded, but isolated avalanches have been reported to have released on this layer recently. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 1m in the south and has generally become inactive. It may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas, at higher elevations, and in the far north of the region. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust-facet combination buried in November. This deep persistent weakness was recently reactive and may still be touchy in the far north of the region. Wherever you are, I'd be cautious of this deep and potentially destructive layer. Possible triggers include thin spot triggering in high elevation terrain, a cornice fall, or a smaller avalanche stepping down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The layer of new storm snow (20-30 cm)has fallen on a variety of old surfaces, including hard crusts, breakable crusts at higher elevations, and surface hoar in some areas. A melt freeze crust can be found up to about 2200m. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 30 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20-25 mm of heavy snow, or rain below 1500m, has accumulated over 5-10 cm which is sitting on a widespread weak layer made of a hard crust topped by large surface hoar (referred to as the late January crust/surface hoar layer further down).&nbsp; Significantly more load&nbsp; is expected to add on to the snowpack through the night and tomorrow (total 35-50 mm as rain up to around 2000m) driving the avalanche danger to rise and making traveling conditions very dangerous in the backcountry. The rain is expected to weaken the late January crust/surface hoar layer, therefore increasing the likelihood of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo found down 90 - 110 cm and could come out of its dormant stage making for some very large avalanche potential .</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm initially produced 5 - 15 cm of new snow before switching to rain mid morning. Temperatures had warmed to 0 C at 2200m by early afternoon. This snow/rain combo is likely saturating the 10 to 30cm of new snow that overlies a hard rain crust which exists up to at least 2100m. Strong west/southwest winds are likely shifting the remaining cold snow at upper elevations into wind slabs. Deeper snowpack weaknesses have become unreactive on account of the strong capping crust layer. We'll be watching the strength/temperature of this capping layer closely through the weekend.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">35- 60cm of new snow has fallen in the last few days. Strong winds have redistributed this snow in exposed terrain forming winds slabs in leeward features and stripping exposed slopes. The late-January crust is typically down 100-140cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. Tests are indicating that this interface is generally well bonded but isolated avalanches have been reported to have released on this layer recently. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive. It may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded. However, this deep and destructive layer is still reported to be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm of new snow overlies various old surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200m, and heavily wind-affected snow in the high alpine. Surface hoar was reported to be growing in isolated pockets at all elevations before the new storm snow buried it around January 30th. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern at treeline and in the alpine where it can be found buried between 40 and 100 cm down. Snowpack tests give variable results on this weak layer, it may be gaining strength in many areas but it is still producing sudden planar and occasional sudden collapse (popping) failures. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm has produced 20 to as much as 60cm of snow above 2200m in the north. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. Moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE have likely formed deep slabs at upper elevations. In the Southern portion of the region it sounds even wetter with rain falling to ridgetop. All the new snow rests on the early February rain crust, and most of the avalanche activity has been on said crust. I have not heard of anything running below the crust at this point.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm slab continues to develop and is up to 70 cm thick and sits on a variety of old surfaces including crusts, surface hoar, and old wind slabs. A crust can be found below about 1900m in the north of the region and below 2200m in the south of the region. At higher elevations the new snow has formed thick windslabs formed by strong Southwest winds. Several persistent weak layers can be found deeper in the snowpack that may be capped by the overlying crust at lower elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is buried between 60 and 100cm down and remains a concern at treeline and above. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 100 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be slowly gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow has settled into a reactive soft slab that may release on the buried end of January crust, or on a weakness within the storm snow that is 10-15 cm above the crust. Widespread windslabs at ridgetops may be easy to trigger where they are sitting on the crust that formed last week. The new storm slab is up to 60 cm thick and sits above a variety of old surfaces. The old surfaces include the crust that formed last week, a new layer of surface hoar that developed during the clear weather late last week, and in some places wind slabs that developed smooth hard surfaces. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down 60-120 cm across the region, but in most places it is about one metre down. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing sudden collapse (popping) failures in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail, the storm at the end of the week should be a good test to see if it will become active again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The top 30 to 40 cm of snow sitting over the late January crust is now either wet or moist above ~1900m.&nbsp; The rain forecast up to 1900m through Saturday will continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers.&nbsp; Avalanche danger will therefore stay high and traveling in the backcountry will remain very dangerous. The mid-January weak layer of buried surface hoar is now down 35-75 cm. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 60 - 110 cm and could come out of its dormant stage making for some very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The ~30 cm recent storm snow is now either wet under 1800m or moist above. Strong winds from the southwest have built thick, touchy wind slabs on east and northeast facing alpine slopes. The sustained rain forecast up to ~1900m through Saturday will continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. Avalanche danger will therefore stay high and traveling in the backcountry will remain very dangerous. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 50-95 cm and could come out of its dormant stage making for some very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures, new snow and moderate to strong SW winds have created widespread storm slabs at Alpine and treeline elevations.  These slabs are failing within the recent storm snow and down 40cm on the 0131 crust.  The freezing level on friday hovered around 2000m.  In a few locations were have seen the 0106 basal crust wake up with the new load creating larger avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm has produced approximately 20 to 50 cm of new snow accompanied by strong to extreme winds out of the E through SE. There are a number of weak layers in our snowpack, this storm should be a good test for all of them. In places the new storm snow sits on the early February surface hoar, little is known about the distribution of this interface. The late January crust is probably down 60 to 100cm in the south, it's likely shallower in the north. The mid-January rain crust(with some spatially spotty surface hoar on top) is down over a meter. It might still be a problem in thin snowpack areas. The crust/facet combination from November can be found near the ground. It's not an easy snowpack to work with, we'd greatly appreciate your observations via the Mountain Information Network.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm snow is now 25-40 cm thick and has been heavily wind affected, developing thick areas of wind transported snow that may be easy to trigger. The new storm slab sits on a variety of old surfaces, including hard crusts, breakable crusts at higher elevations, and surface hoar in some areas. A melt freeze crust can be found up to about 2200m. At higher elevations, the surface is heavily wind affected. The depth of the mid-January surface hoar is highly variable across the region and it may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. Where it does exist, it can be found between 30 and 70 cm below the surface. The mid-December surface hoar layer lies below a strong mid-pack down about 60 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should be on your radar in shallow snowpack areas where there is more chance of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The top 30 to 40 cm of snow sitting over the late January crust is now either wet or moist all the way to mountain tops. The sustained rain forecast up to ~1900m through Saturday will continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers.  Avalanche danger will therefore stay high and traveling in the backcountry will remain very dangerous. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 90 - 110 cm and could come out of its dormant stage making for some very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm has produced 30 to as much as 100cm of snow above 2200m. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. Moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE have likely formed deep slabs at upper elevations. All the new snow rests on the early February rain crust, and most of the avalanche activity has been on said crust. I have not heard of anything running below the crust at this point.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The NW Coast is THE place to be in the province right now. Arctic air has kept things cool and the snow totals are substantial. The storm has produced 50 to 100cm accompanied by screaming winds out of the E through SE. Observations are limited, but there has likely been a lot of slab development in wind exposed terrain at and above treeline.  The late-January crust is thought to be down 50 to 150cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive though it may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded but may still be reactive in the far north of the region.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 70 cm of new snow overlies various old surfaces including a melt-freeze crust up to about 2200m, and heavily wind-affected snow in the high alpine. Surface hoar was reported to be growing in isolated pockets at all elevations before the new storm snow buried it around January 30th. Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern at treeline and in the alpine where it can be found buried between 40 and 100 cm down. Snowpack tests give variable results on this weak layer, it may be gaining strength in many areas but it is still producing sudden planar and occasional sudden collapse (popping) failures. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 70 to 140cm below the surface and appears to be gaining strength.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm has produced 20 to as much as 80cm of snow above 2200m in the north. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. Moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE have likely formed deep slabs at upper elevations. In the Southern portion of the region it sounds like a bit of cooling produced 15 cm of new snow Friday night, previously rain had fallen to ridgetop. All the new snow rests on the early February rain crust, and most of the avalanche activity has been on said crust. I have not heard of anything running below the crust at this point.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-80cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around treeline elevation. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down over 60-100cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down 100 to 150cm. It has generally been unreactive but may wake-up with the new storm loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 80cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 2200m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down over 80-120cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down 100 to 150cm. It has generally been unreactive but may wake-up with the new storm loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy precipitation over the past few days has resulted in deep and dense storm slabs above about 1800m. At lower elevations heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have shifted the new snow accumulations into much deeper deposits in exposed lee terrain. Weaknesses are expected to exist within the new storm snow as well as on a hard melt freeze crust which exists up to 80cm below the surface. This crust, which formed at the end of January, is reported to have weak overlying surface hoar and should be treated with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down 60-120 cm across the region, but in most places it is about one metre down. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing &quot;sudden&quot; failures in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail. The current storm pattern should be a good test to see if it will become active again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the alpine, up to 50cm of moist, dense snow overlies a touchy crust/surface hoar layer which was formed in late January. These new snow accumulations have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. At lower elevations very heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. I'm sure cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The sustained rain should continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 50 - 95 cm. Rain and/or heavy storm loading could spark renewed activity at this interface with the potential for very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50cm of recent snow is overlying the 0131crust which continues to produce moderate to easy sheers on a layer of facets overlying the crust..  The 0131crust is being found up to 2900m on steep solar aspects and only up to 2200m on more polar aspects.  Warm temps, combined with the recent new snow and winds are building new windslabs and storm slabs that are skier triggerrable.  Some recent slide activity has shown evidence of stepping down to deeper layers such as the Dec 13th crust as well as the November rain crust way down in the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm has produced approximately 30 to 70 cm of new snow accompanied by strong to extreme winds out of the E through SE. There are a number of weak layers in our snowpack, this storm should be a good test for all of them. In places the new storm snow sits on the early February surface hoar, little is known about the distribution of this interface. The late January crust is probably down 60 to 100cm in the south, it's likely shallower in the north. The mid-January rain crust(with some spatially spotty surface hoar on top) is down over a meter. It might still be a problem in thin snowpack areas. The crust/facet combination from November can be found near the ground. It's not an easy snowpack to work with, we'd greatly appreciate your observations via the Mountain Information Network.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around treeline elevation. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 60-100cm but may have been destroyed by warmth at low elevations. The mid-December weak layer is in the mid-pack down 80 to 120cm. Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should remain on your radar, especially in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the alpine, up to 70cm of moist, dense snow overlies a touchy crust/surface hoar layer which was formed in late January. These new snow accumulations have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. At lower elevations very heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. I'm sure cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The sustained rain should continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 90 - 110 cm. Rain and/or heavy storm loading could spark renewed activity at this interface with the potential for very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm has produced 30 to as much as 100cm of snow above 2200m. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. Moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE have likely formed deep slabs at upper elevations. All the new snow rests on the early February rain crust, and most of the avalanche activity has been on said crust. I have not heard of anything running below the crust at this point.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The NW Coast is THE place to be in the province right now. Arctic air has kept things cool and the snow totals are substantial. The storm produced 50 to 100cm accompanied by screaming winds out of the E through SE. Observations are limited, but there has likely been a lot of slab development in wind exposed terrain at and above treeline. The late-January crust is thought to be down 50 to 150cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. This crust may have surface hoar on it. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive though it may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded but may still be reactive in the far north of the region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 80cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around treeline elevation. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is typically down 100 to 150cm. It has generally been unreactive but may wake-up with the new storm loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm has produced 50 to as much as 80cm of snow above 2200m in the north of the region. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. Moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE have likely formed deep slabs at upper elevations. In the Southern portion of the region it sounds like a bit of cooling produced 15 cm of new snow Friday night, previously rain had fallen to ridgetop. All the new snow rests on the early February rain crust. We have not received any reports of avalanches failing below this stout crust. Warm temps this week should help all the new storm snow to settle and stabilize.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-80cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1700m and moist snow is reported to at least 2000m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. Multiple weaknesses within the storm snow are also expected. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down over 120cm. It has generally been unreactive but may wake-up with the new storm loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-80cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1900m and moist snow is reported to at least 2200m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. There are also several weaknesses reported within the storm snow. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down close to 1.5m. It has generally been unreactive but may wake-up with the new storm loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy precipitation over the past few days has resulted in deep and dense storm slabs above about 1800m. At lower elevations heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have shifted the new snow accumulations into much deeper deposits in exposed lee terrain. Weaknesses are expected to exist within the new storm snow as well as on a hard melt freeze crust which exists up to 80cm below the surface. This crust, which formed at the end of January, is reported to have weak overlying surface hoar and should be treated with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down 60-120 cm across the region, but in most places it is about one metre down. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing &quot;sudden&quot; failures in snowpack tests. The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 80 to 140cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail. The current storm pattern should be a good test to see if it will become active again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the alpine, up to 50cm of moist, dense snow overlies a touchy crust/surface hoar layer which was formed in late January. These new snow accumulations have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. At lower elevations very heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. I'm sure cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The sustained rain should continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 50 - 95 cm. Rain and/or heavy storm loading could spark renewed activity at this interface with the potential for very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent storm snow has settled at all elevations. Below treeline the new snow is a heavy, dense, 30cm thick layer that is sitting on a relatively weak mid pack. There was widespread whumphing in many open, untouched areas today. Shaded areas were slightly drier, but still dense. The moist snow didn't disappear until 2050m. 2050m to treeline still had a distinct slab, but the stronger midpack seemed to handle the load a little bit better. Having said that, whumphing was still observed with very isolated cracking. The Jan31st was down 40 on a west aspect and up to 70cm's on an East(lee)Upper alpine and alpine terrain had obvious wind loading. The certainty of the windslabs prevented us from directly assessing their reactivity, but it is fair to say human triggering is almost certain right now. The load of this recent storm is significant, the snowpack will takes its time adjusting. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches except possibly at mountain top elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm has produced approximately 30 to 70cm of dry low density snow accompanied by strong to extreme winds out of the E through SE. There are a number of weak layers in our snowpack, this storm has been a good test for all of them. Clear skies the next few days should allow operations to get out and see some terrain. Once those observations start trickling in we should have a better feel for which layers are players, and which interfaces have gone dormant/inactive. I'm curious about all the following layers: The early February surface hoar, (little is known about the distribution of this interface.) The late January crust, probably down 75 to 150cm in the south, likely shallower in the north. The mid-January rain crust (with some spatially spotty surface hoar on top), probably down 100 to 200cm.&nbsp; And finally, the crust/facet combination from November which is near the ground. It's not an easy snowpack to work with, we'd greatly appreciate your observations via the Mountain Information Network.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 2000m and moist snow is reported to at least 2200m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. Multiple weaknesses within the storm snow are also expected.  The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 50-80cm and the mid-December weak layer is down around 1m. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Both of these persistent layers have been reactive recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should remain on your radar, especially in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the alpine, up to 100cm of moist, dense snow overlies a touchy crust/surface hoar layer which was formed in late January. These new snow accumulations have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. At lower elevations very heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. I'm sure cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The sustained rain should continue to break down the late January crust, increasing the possibility of avalanches stepping down to deeper weak layers. The mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo is found down 90 - 110 cm. Rain and/or heavy storm loading could spark renewed activity at this interface with the potential for very large avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm has produced 30 to as much as 100cm of snow above 2200m. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. Moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE have likely formed deep slabs at upper elevations. All the new snow rests on the early February rain crust which remains stout and supportive.  Avalanches have been running on the crust or on mid storm instabilities. We have not received any reports of  avalanches running below the crust.  Reports indicate that the bond between the storm snow and crust is strengthening.  Warm temps should allow that trend to continue.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The NW Coast is THE place to be in the province right now. Arctic air has kept things cool and the snow totals are substantial. The storm produced 50 to 100cm accompanied by screaming winds out of the E through SE. Initial observations are limited, but there are reports of 75 cm of wind affected snow at and above treeline. The late-January crust is thought to be down 50 to 150cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. This crust may have surface hoar on it. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive though it may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded but may still be reactive in the far north of the region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">60-80cm of recent storm snow has fallen over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rising freezing levels during the storm have created upside-down snow conditions and highly reactive storm slabs. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1800m and moist snow is reported to at least 2100m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. There are also multiple weaknesses reported within the storm snow. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down close to 1.5m. It has generally been unreactive but may wake-up with the new storm loading.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm produced 50 to 80cm of snow above 2200m in the north of the region and around 30cm in the southern portion of the region accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE  . This snow rests on the stout early February rain crust. The bond to this crust continues to strengthen with ongoing warm temperatures. (We have not received any reports of avalanches failing below this crust.) The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline.  Warm temps this week should continue to help all the new storm snow to settle and stabilize.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">60-90cm of rapidly settling storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1700m and moist snow is reported to at least 2000m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and is still reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down over 120cm but has generally been unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">60-100cm of recent storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. This snow is expected to be settling rapidly with the warmer temperatures. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1900m and moist snow is reported to at least 2200m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and has been very reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down around 1.5m but has generally been unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy precipitation over the past few days has resulted in deep and dense storm slabs above about 1800m. At lower elevations heavy rain has saturated the snowpack which, depending on the temperature, will now appear wet or refrozen. Moderate to strong southwest winds have shifted the new snow accumulations into much deeper deposits in exposed lee terrain. Below the recent storm snow you'll find a hard melt freeze crust which exists up to 100cm below the surface. This crust, which formed at the end of January, may have weak overlying surface hoar and is still reported to be very reactive in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack the mid-January surface hoar remains a concern. It can be found down 80-140 cm across the region. In some locations it has reportedly gained quite a bit of strength, but elsewhere it is still producing very large avalanches under the weight of the recent snow load.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-December surface hoar layer is now 100 to 170cm below the surface and has become unlikely to fail. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Febraury 5th, moderate to heavy precipitation fell throughout the region. The rain line during the storms generally hovered around 1700m, although there were periods where rain fell into the alpine. In the alpine, heavy accumulations of moist, dense snow have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. The recent storm snow overlies a hard crust layer (which may have overlying surface hoar) which was formed in late January. At lower elevations, continuous rain has saturated the snowpack. I'm sure cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower snowpack, you may find the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo. At lower elevations rain has likely destroyed what was left of this layer. At higher elevations recent storm loading may have produced very large avalanches at this interface, although observations have been extremely limited. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2cm of new snow through the day with very little wind. Temperatures at treeline rose to above freezing by early afternoon. The snowpack is settling rapidly and the surface snow is moist below 2000m on all aspects but this condition reaches higher on solar aspects. Recent storm snow of up to 60cm is bonding well below treeline, but not as well at treeline and above where moderate shears persist at the January 31st interface. Also at treeline and above new wind slabs have formed in recent days which are reactive to ski cutting. Cornices have experienced significant growth in recent days and several large avalanches have been triggered by cornice failures.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm produced approximately 30 to 70cm of dry low density snow accompanied by strong to extreme winds out of the E through SE. There are a number of weak layers in our snowpack, this storm has been a good test for all of them. One more day of clear skies should allow some observations into our office. Right now there's a lot of uncertainty about which layers are players, and which interfaces have gone dormant/inactive. I'm curious about all the following layers: The early February surface hoar, (little is known about the distribution of this interface.) The late January crust, probably down 75 to 150cm in the south, likely shallower in the north. The mid-January rain crust (with some spatially spotty surface hoar on top), probably down 100 to 200cm. And finally, the crust/facet combination from November which is near the ground. It's not an easy snowpack to work with, we'd greatly appreciate your observations via the Mountain Information Network.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60cm of rapidly settling storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 2000m and moist snow is reported to at least 2200m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 50-80cm and has been very reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down around 1m </span><span class="s_3FE45715">but its reactivity has been isolated recently</span><span class="s_3FE45715">. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has been unreactive lately, but should remain on your radar, especially in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Febraury 5th, close to 200mm of precipitation fell in the Lizard Range. The rain line during the storms generally hovered around 1700m, although there were periods where rain fell into the alpine. In the alpine, up to 100cm of moist, dense snow has been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. The recent storm snow overlies a touchy crust/surface hoar layer which was formed in late January. At lower elevations very heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. I'm sure cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower snowpack, you may find the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo. At lower elevations rain has likely destroyed what was left of this layer. At higher elevations recent storm loading may have produced very large avalanches at this interface, although observations have been extremely limited. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wet warm storm produced 30 to 100cm of snow above 2200m. Warm temperatures are driving rapid settlement of the storm snow, the average depth of snow above the stout and supportive Early February Rain Crust is now around 70cm. Shears on both the mid storm instabilities and the February Crust continue to strengthen. It's not your typical early February snowpack, the snow below 2000m is wet, and a saturated slush on crust setup can be found below treeline. All avalanche activity has occurred on either mid storm instabilities or the crust. We have not received any reports of avalanches failing below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The NW Coast is THE place to be in the province right now. Arctic air has kept things cool and the storm produced 50 to 100cm accompanied by screaming winds out of the E through SE. Initial observations are limited, but there are reports of 75 cm of wind affected snow at and above treeline. The late-January crust is thought to be down 50 to 150cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. This crust may have surface hoar on it. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive though it may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded but may still be reactive in the far north of the region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">70-100cm of recent storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. This snow is expected to be settling rapidly with the warm temperatures. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1800m and moist snow is reported to at least 2100m. Strong SW winds have formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 90-120cm and has been reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down around 1.5m but has generally been unreactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_7D940460">Last weeks pineapple express delivered 50 to 80cm of snow above 2200m in the north of the region and around 30cm in the southern portion of the region accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the SW through SE. This snow rests on a supportive rain crust from early February. The bond to this crust continues to strengthen with ongoing warm temperatures. The snow is wet below 2000m and saturated below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">60-90cm of rapidly settling storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1700m and moist snow is reported to at least 2000m. Overnight cooling may be refreezing the snow surface forming a weak crust at some elevations. Strong SW winds had formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and has been reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down over 120cm but was generally unreactive through the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">60-100cm of recent storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. This snow is expected to be settling rapidly with the unseasonably warm temperatures. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1900m and moist snow is reported to at least 2200m. Overnight cooling may be forming a surface crust at some elevations. Strong SW winds had formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 80-120cm and has been very reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down around 1.5m but was generally unreactive through the storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since February 5th, moderate to heavy precipitation fell throughout the region. The rain line during the storms generally hovered around 1700m, although there were periods where rain fell into the alpine. In the alpine, heavy accumulations of moist, dense snow have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. The recent storm snow overlies a hard crust layer (which may have overlying surface hoar) which was formed in late January. At lower elevations, continuous rain has saturated the snowpack. I suspect cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower snowpack, you may find the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo. At lower elevations rain has likely destroyed what was left of this layer. At higher elevations recent storm loading may have produced very large avalanches at this interface, although observations have been extremely limited. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since February 5th, moderate to heavy precipitation fell throughout the region. The rain line during the storms generally hovered around 1700m, although there were periods where rain fell into the alpine. In the alpine, heavy accumulations of moist, dense snow have been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. The recent storm snow overlies a hard crust layer (which may have overlying surface hoar) which was formed in late January. At lower elevations, continuous rain has saturated the snowpack. I suspect cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower snowpack, you may find the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo. At lower elevations rain has likely destroyed what was left of this layer. At higher elevations recent storm loading may have produced very large avalanches at this interface, although observations have been extremely limited. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">12cm of new snow overnight brings recent storm snow totals to between 50 and 70cm at Treeline. This storm snow is generally settling rapidly due to mild temperatures. Wind slabs are present in open areas at Treeline and in the Alpine and these have been reactive to ski cutting in recent days and are also giving easy to moderate results in compression tests. Storm slabs are also an issue at all elevations with the interface (down 50 to 70cm) giving moderate compression test results today with very clean shear qualities. The surface snow is moist below 2050m on all aspects and higher on solar aspects. The snowpack in the valley floor did freeze overnight, but by midday the snowpack was moist and unsupportive. Recent cornice growth is also a concern as failures of cornices have triggered the deep persistent weak layer of the November facets in very large avalanches in recent days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well below the seasonal average and is generally below the threshold for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow will fall on fresh surface hoar and a sun crust on steep south aspects. Since the beginning of February the region has received 30 to 70cm of dry low density snow accompanied by strong to extreme winds out of the E through SE. Bellow this there are a number of weak layers in the region's snowpack. Right now there's a lot of uncertainty about which layers are still players, and which have gone dormant. The early February surface hoar lies under the recent storm snow but little is known about its distribution. The late January crust is probably down 75 to 150cm in the south of the region but is likely shallower in the north. The mid-January rain crust which may feature surface hoar on top in some locations is probably down between 100 and 200cm. Finally, the crust/facet combination from November is near the ground. Basically, it's not a very easy snowpack to work with and we'd appreciate any observations shared via the Mountain Information Network. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60cm of rapidly settling storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 2000m and moist snow is reported to at least 2200m. Overnight cooling may be forming a surface crust at some elevations. Strong SW winds had formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 50-80cm and has been very reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down around 1m but its reactivity has been isolated recently. The mid-November weak layer of crusts and facets can still be found near the bottom of the snowpack. It has generally been unreactive but one explosive triggered avalanche occurred on it recently in a reloaded area that had slide previously.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since February 5th, close to 200mm of precipitation fell in the Lizard Range. The rain line during the storms generally hovered around 1700m, although there were periods where rain fell into the alpine. In the alpine, up to 100cm of moist, dense snow has been pushed by strong southwest winds into much deeper deposits in upper elevation lee terrain. The recent storm snow overlies a touchy crust/surface hoar layer which was formed in late January. At lower elevations very heavy rain has saturated the snowpack. I suspect cornices are large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower snowpack, you may find the mid-December crust/facet/surface hoar combo. At lower elevations rain has likely destroyed what was left of this layer. At higher elevations recent storm loading may have produced very large avalanches at this interface, although observations have been extremely limited. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It's definitely not your typical early February coastal snowpack.  Last week’s pineapple express brought 30 to 100cm of snow above 2200m with heavy rains saturating the snowpack at lower elevation.  Cornices are reported to be looming at upper elevation.  Warm temperatures are now driving rapid settlement of the storm snow and the average depth of snow above the supportive early February rain crust is now around 70cm. Snowpack tests on both the mid storm instabilities and the February Crust are showing that these layers continue to strengthen.  The snow below 2000m is wet, and a saturated slush on crust setup can be found below treeline.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new layer of surface hoar was reported to be developing across the region above the 50 to 100cm of snow that fell during last weeks pineapple express. The storm also brought screaming winds out of the E through SE that formed windslabs in lee features. The late-January crust is thought to be down 50 to 130cm in the south of the region and about half this depth in the north. This crust may have surface hoar on it. The mid-January rain crust and/or surface hoar layer is down over 150cm in the south and has generally become inactive although it may still be a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The November crust/facet combo near the bottom of the snowpack is thought to be generally well bonded but may still be reactive in the far north of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">70-100cm of recent storm snow sits over the late-Jan weak layer at higher elevations. This snow is expected to be settling rapidly with the unseasonably warm temperatures. Rain has soaked the snow surface up to around 1800m and moist snow is reported to at least 2100m. Overnight cooling may be refreezing the surface forming a weak crust at some elevations. Strong SW winds had formed wind slabs in exposed leeward terrain features. The storm slab sits on an old rain crust at lower elevations, variable surface hoar, and/or wind affected surfaces at higher elevations. The mid-January surface hoar is typically down 90-120cm and has been reactive in some areas. The mid-December weak layer is down around 1.5m but was generally unreactive through the storm.</span></p>