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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow totals from last week vary from 5-20cm above 1700m, thanks to redistribution from north east through to more recent south west winds. Wind slabs up to 20cm thick have formed on down wind (lee) features higher up. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, rain on Wednesday formed a thick crust and capped the snow pack. That said, avalanche hazard remains elevated below tree line due to the possibility of large avalanches running full path from higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A layer buried mid January is composed of surface hoar on sheltered aspects (especially prominent from 1400-1900 m) and a sun crust on solar aspects and is 60-80 cm deep. Another surface hoar layer from early January is 90-110 cm deep. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Finally, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain while avoiding all overhead hazard. </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">Temperatures cooled to -20 overnight at tree line and winds have been gusty (mostly north west to south west) throughout the weekend. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals from last week were 50-90 cm, and redistributed by winds (see above) at higher elevations. The western parts of the region in BC were relatively warm with less snow, while areas in Alberta and around the divide were much colder and windier. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak, with a number of concerns: A layer buried mid-January is composed of surface hoar on sheltered aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects is now 60-80 cm deep. Another surface hoar layer from early-January is buried 70-90 cm deep. A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 100-150 cm deep. Finally, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November is near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain while avoiding all overhead hazard. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Highly variable snow surfaces exist. On south-facing alpine slopes, you're likely to find scoured crusty surfaces, while reactive wind slabs have built on lee slopes facing roughly north. A melt-freeze crust has formed up to about 1900 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On average, 180 cm of settled snow now sits on the mid-January crust which generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow; however, it has the potential to wake up with a large trigger such as a cornice fall. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be generally strong and well-settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snowfall totals are highly variable. In the south, up to 40 cm of new snow fell bringing the alpine totals up to 60 cm for the storm ending last week. In the north, new snow totals are half that and rapidly decrease below 1800m. This new snow remains unconsolidated in wind-sheltered, shaded areas at upper elevations but has formed wind slabs in open areas at treeline and above, and scoured areas at ridge crests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations travel is rugged and some are recommending ski crampons below tree line (!) </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, 80-150 cm down in the mid pack sits the mid- January crust. It generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow; however, I would remain suspect of this deeper layer while the snowpack adjusts to the new load. Thinner snowpack areas may have a higher likelihood of an avalanche failing on this layer. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile and demand respect.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong north west winds picked up on Saturday, redistributing last week's storm snow and creating fresh wind slabs at higher elevations. By Sunday afternoon, winds had shifted to strong from the south east. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wednesday's storm delivered another 30-50 cm of new snow, and a mix of rain and freezing rain for areas west of Terrace. Northern areas have seen about 50-70 cm of recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Beneath the storm snow lies a 5-20 cm thick crust that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer buried in mid-January is 120-150 cm below the surface and remains a concern. In most areas this layer is a crust, but it may also be surface hoar in sheltered areas at tree line and below. This layer may remain reactive as it adjusts to the weight of the new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), deeper crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December and early January may still be a concern. They are buried over 150 cm below the surface, but could still be reactive and triggered from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong north west winds picked up on Saturday, redistributing last week's storm snow and creating touchy wind slabs at higher elevations. A strong inversion also set up with tree line temperatures near 0 degrees and a thin crust formed on steep south facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wednesday's storm delivered between 15-50 cm of new snow, bringing totals to 40-100 cm over the past week. Areas near Smithers and farther south saw higher snowfall amounts than areas to the north. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree ine elevations. Recent snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface. These layers produced sudden results in recent snowpack tests and have been the suspected weak layer in recent large remotely (from a distance) triggered avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong north to north-westerly winds have shifted 25-70 cm recent storm snow into wind slabs on lee slopes. This adds to an existing storm slab that's 1-2.5 m deep from the last couple of weeks' accumulation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong north to north-westerly winds have loaded lee slopes with 30-40 cm recent storm snow. This adds to an existing storm slab up to 1m deep from the last couple of weeks' accumulation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1-1.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (120-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow accumulations from the past week vary from 10-45cm across the region at upper elevations. In the alpine this new snow has been redistributed to leeward slopes from strong northwest winds. Fragile cornices may be found at ridge top. Below 1850 m, around 5 cm of low density snow covers a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This now brings 1- 2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/ crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/ facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These persistent weak layers that lurk within the snowpack are reactive, producing large and destructive avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is extremely complex and requires respect and diligence at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The alpine has a variety of wind effect that goes into tree line. This wind effect is on all aspects. Natural activity has slowed down but conditions still look primed for human triggering. Any avalanche that is triggered has a high likelihood to step down to the persistent deep layers. These layers include the Jan 18th and 6th surface hoar layers down being found below 2400m down around 1m+ and the Dec15th facet interface down 150cm being found all the way up and into the alpine. Stick to conservative terrain and minimize your exposure to overhead areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain at the end of the week saturated snow surfaces and only higher alpine elevations were lucky enough to receive a light cover of new snow. With the arrival of cold temperatures, the upper snowpack has locked up as a firm crust. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 300 cm of well settled snow with no significant layers of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds have shifted 30-40 cm recent storm snow into wind slabs on lee slopes. Alpine and open treeline areas have seen variable wind-affect while a sun crust exists on solar aspects, and a rain crust is present below 1600 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60 cm recent storm snow may have been shifted into wind slabs on slopes lee to recent south-west through north-west winds. Sun crusts or moist snow may be found on solar aspects and a firm or breakable temperature crust may be found below about 1700 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating the recent load. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow totals from last week vary from 5-20cm above 1700m, thanks to redistribution from variable winds. Wind slabs up to 20cm thick have formed on down wind (lee) features higher up. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, rain last Wednesday formed a thick crust and capped the snow pack. That said, avalanche hazard remains elevated below tree line due to the possibility of large avalanches running full path from higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still lurking in the snowpack and deserve a lot of respect. Conservative terrain use is recommended while avoiding all overhead hazard. </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">Temperatures cooled to -20 overnight at tree line and winds have been gusty (mostly north west to south west) throughout the weekend. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals from last week were 50-90 cm, and redistributed by winds (see above) at higher elevations. The western parts of the region in BC were relatively warm with less snow, while areas in Alberta and around the divide were much colder and windier. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak, with two main concerns: A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 100-150 cm deep. Second, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November is near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain while avoiding all overhead hazard. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Highly variable snow surfaces exist. On south-facing alpine slopes, you're likely to find scoured crusty surfaces, while reactive wind slabs have built on lee slopes facing roughly north. More recent northerly winds have expanded wind slab formation to a range of other aspects. A melt-freeze crust has formed up to about 1900 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On average, 180 cm of settled snow now sits on the mid-January crust which generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow; however, it has the potential to wake up with a large trigger such as a cornice fall. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be generally strong and well-settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowfall totals from last week are highly variable. In the south, up to 40 cm of new snow fell and brought alpine totals up to 60 cm for the storm ending last week. In the north, new snow totals are about half that and rapidly decrease below 1800m. This new snow remains unconsolidated in wind-sheltered, shaded areas at upper elevations but strong northerly winds have scoured windward ridge crests and formed wind slabs in open areas at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, 80-150 cm down in the mid snowpack sits the mid-January crust. It generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow; however, I would remain suspect of this deeper layer while the snowpack adjusts to the new load. Thinner snowpack areas may have a higher likelihood of an avalanche failing on this layer. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile and demand respect. Cornice falls are very effective triggers for avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, travel is rugged and some are recommending ski crampons below treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong and variable winds occurred throughout the long weekend, redistributing last week's storm snow and creating fresh wind slabs at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Beneath the storm snow lies a 5-20 cm thick crust that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer buried in mid-January is 120-150 cm below the surface and remains a concern. In most areas this layer is a crust, but it may also be surface hoar in sheltered areas at tree line and below. This layer may remain reactive as it adjusts to the weight of the new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), deeper crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December and early January may still be a concern. They are buried over 150 cm below the surface, but could still be reactive and triggered from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong north / west winds blew throughout the long weekend, redistributing last week's storm snow and creating touchy wind slabs at higher elevations. A strong inversion also set up with tree line temperatures near 0 degrees and a thin crust formed on steep south facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Last week's storm delivered between 15-50 cm of new snow, bringing totals to 40-100 cm over the past week. Areas near Smithers and farther south saw higher snowfall amounts than areas to the north. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface. These layers produced sudden results in recent snowpack tests and have been the suspected weak layer in recent large remotely (from a distance) triggered avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong north to north-westerly winds have shifted 25-70 cm recent storm snow into wind slabs on lee slopes. Alpine and open treeline areas have seen extensive wind-affect, while a sun crust exists on solar aspects and a rain crust can be found below 1600 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong north to north-westerly winds have loaded lee slopes with 30-40 cm recent storm snow. Alpine and open treeline areas have seen extensive wind-affect from strong, northerly winds, while a sun-crust has formed on solar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1-1.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (120-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow accumulations from the past week vary from 10-45cm across the region at upper elevations. In the alpine this new snow has been redistributed to leeward slopes from strong northwest winds. Fragile cornices may be found at ridge top. Below 1850 m, around 5 cm of low density snow covers a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We now have 1- 2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/ facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These persistent weak layers that lurk within the snowpack have produced large and destructive avalanches. Although this activity has been diminishing gradually, recent activity and continued sudden snowpack test results have kept them a top concern in the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The complex and widespread nature of our multiple overlapping persistent slab problems continues to demand respect and diligence from backcountry travelers in the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A profile at 2200m showed the Jan. 18 surface hoar layer is down 40cm, Jan 6 surface hoar layer is down 60cm and the Dec 15 facets is down 90cm.  The surface hoar layers(Jan 18 and Jan 6) are not producing any test results.  The Dec 15 facets layer was producing a hard compression test and was sudden planar in nature on loose facets.  The November crusts have turned into facets at this elevation.  The bottom 70cm of the snowpack consists of facets which is about half of the snow pack at this elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bigger concern is still for human triggering at tree line and in the alpine.  Tuesday is forecast for strong winds along with strong gusts; so I bet wherever there was no wind slab, there will be lots of it.  Stay tuned...</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">Rain at the end of the week saturated snow surfaces and only higher alpine elevations were lucky enough to receive a light cover of new snow. With the arrival of cold temperatures, the upper snowpack has locked up as a firm crust. Where new snow exists above the crust, it has been redistributed by recent strong southwest winds. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 300 cm of well settled snow with no significant layers of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning I would expect up to 30cm of new snow. Forecast strong ridgetop winds are expected to redistribute the new snow into much deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The new snow will overlie older wind slabs at higher elevations and a rain crust below 1600m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning I would expect up to 15cm of new snow. Forecast strong ridgetop winds are expected to redistribute the new snow into much deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The new snow will overlie older wind slabs in higher elevation terrain, and a melt-freeze crust below 1700m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since the last snowfall almost a week ago, we've seen gusty winds (strong at times) from virtually all directions. The end result is wind slabs up to 20cm thick have formed on down wind (lee) features higher up, on a wide range of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, rain last Wednesday formed a thick crust and capped the snow pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still lurking in the snowpack and they deserve a lot of respect. Conservative terrain use is recommended while avoiding all overhead hazard. </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">Wind has been the main weather story over the past few days, with gusts on Tuesday over 130 Km/ hr!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The end result is extensive scouring on windward slopes (generally north and west facing slopes) and the creation of wind slabs on down wind (lee) features higher up, on a wide range of aspects.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak, with two main concerns: A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 100-150 cm deep. Second, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November is near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain while avoiding all overhead hazard. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Increasing flurries are expected to bring about 15 cm of new snow to the region by Wednesday morning. Beneath the new snow, highly variable snow surfaces exist. From scoured crusty surfaces on south-facing alpine slopes to reactive wind slabs on lee slopes facing roughly north. More recent northerly winds have expanded wind slab formation to a range of other aspects and melt-freeze crust exists up to about 1900 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On average, 180 cm of settled snow now sits on the mid-January crust which generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow; however, it has the potential to wake up with a large trigger such as a cornice fall. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be generally strong and well-settled.</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 by Wednesday morning. The new snow is accumulating above unconsolidated recent storm snow in wind-sheltered, shaded areas at upper elevations as well as variably scoured and wind loaded slopes in exposed areas. The recent storm snow amounts to roughly 60 cm in the south of the region and about half this amount in the north of the region. Below about 1800 metres, the new snow will accumulate above a rain crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 80-150 cm down in the mid snowpack sits the mid-January crust. It generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow but will likely remain sensitive to large triggers - especially in thinner snowpack areas. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile, and they demand respect. Cornice falls are very effective triggers for avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Phenomenal snowfall amounts occurred on Tuesday, with 40-50cm falling in a 12 hour period near Terrace! Combine that with strong north west winds and temperatures near zero... it's a perfect recipe for widespread large destructive avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new snow sits on a wide array of surfaces - either wind scoured from strong and variable winds from the long weekend, or fresh wind slabs at higher elevations on lee (downwind) slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Beneath the storm snow lies a 5-20 cm thick crust that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer buried in mid-January is 120-150 cm below the surface and remains a concern. In most areas this layer is a crust, but it may also be surface hoar in sheltered areas at tree line and below. This layer may remain reactive as it adjusts to the weight of the new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), deeper crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December and early January may still be a concern. They are buried over 150 cm below the surface, but could still be reactive and triggered from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong winds from a wide range of directions (mostly northwesterly) have been blowing for the past several days, scouring some slopes and creating touchy wind slabs at tree line and above. Where the wind has not affected the snow, you'll find 30-50cm of settling storm snow from last week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface. These layers produced sudden results in snowpack tests and have been the suspected weak layer in large remotely (from a distance) triggered avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/54cdf214-c322-48d0-b9ae-647cd2650f6e" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">See here for a good summary of recent snowpack test results near Smithers.</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning I would expect up to 30cm of new snow. Forecast strong ridgetop winds are expected to redistribute the new snow into much deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The new snow will overlie older wind slabs and a rain crust below 1600m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning I would expect up to 30cm of new snow. Forecast strong ridgetop winds are expected to redistribute the new snow into much deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1-1.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (120-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow is expected to accumulate by Wednesday morning. Beneath the new snow, storm snow accumulations from the past week vary from 10-45cm across the region at upper elevations. In the alpine this new snow has been redistributed to leeward slopes from strong northwest winds. Fragile cornices may be found at ridge top. Below 1850 m, around 5 cm of low density snow covers a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We now have 1- 2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/ facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These persistent weak layers that lurk within the snowpack have produced large and destructive avalanches. Although this activity has been diminishing gradually, recent activity and continued sudden snowpack test results have kept them a top concern in the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The complex and widespread nature of our multiple overlapping persistent slab problems continues to demand respect and diligence from backcountry travelers in the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong to extreme winds have stripped most of the available snow and formed stiff wind slabs on all lee aspects. The winds have come from west to north aspects which has made a reverse loading pattern. Luckily these areas are easily identified once seen. So far the alpine has been the most wind effected, but treeline also has widespread slabs. Even valley bottom areas have felt the winds. Many avalanche crowns from last week have filled in.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Increasing flurries are expected to bring about 20 cm of new snow to the region by Wednesday morning. Beneath the new snow, the upper snowpack at most elevations has locked up as a firm rain crust. In the high alpine, the new snow is accumulating over wind affected surfaces and thin wind slabs. It will take time for the new snow to form a solid bond with these varied surfaces - especially the rain crust. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 300 cm of well settled snow with no significant layers of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning up to 30cm of new snow had fallen. Strong winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning up to 15cm of new snow had fallen. I suspect moderate southwest winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 20 cm of new storm snow overlies old wind slabs leeward slopes at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, this new snow covers a rain crust from last Wednesday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still lurking in the snowpack and they deserve a lot of respect. Conservative terrain use is recommended while avoiding all overhead hazard. </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">About 10-15 cm on new snow and strong to extreme winds have resulted in extensive scouring on windward slopes (generally north and west facing slopes) and the creation of wind slabs on down wind (lee) features higher up, on a wide range of aspects.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak, with two main concerns: A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 100-150 cm deep. Second, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November is near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain while avoiding all overhead hazard. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow sits above a variety of old surfaces, including scoured crusty surfaces on south-facing alpine slopes, old wind slabs on a range of aspects at high elevations, and a melt-freeze crust up to about 1900 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On average, 180 cm of settled snow now sits on the mid-January crust which generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow; however, it has the potential to wake up with a large trigger such as a cornice fall. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be generally strong and well-settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow sits above a variety of old interfaces, including unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas, scoured and wind loaded snow in exposed areas, and a melt-freeze crust below roughly 1900 m. Storm snow amounts from the past week are roughly 60 cm in the south of the region and about half this amount in the north of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 80-150 cm down in the mid snowpack sits the mid-January crust. It generally shows signs of bonding to the overlying snow but will likely remain sensitive to large triggers - especially in thinner snowpack areas. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile, and they demand respect. Cornice falls are very effective triggers for avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of new snow has fallen across the region since Tuesday with the highest snowfall amounts in the Terrace area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This new snow sits on a wide array of surfaces - including wind scoured from strong and variable winds during the long weekend, and fresh wind slabs at higher elevations on lee (downwind) slopes as well as facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below, and suncrusts on steep solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A 5-20 cm thick crust that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer buried in mid-January is 120-150 cm below the surface and remains a concern. In most areas this layer is a crust, but it may also be surface hoar in sheltered areas at tree line and below. This layer may remain reactive as it adjusts to the weight of the new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), deeper crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December and early January may still be a concern. They are buried over 150 cm below the surface, but could still be reactive and triggered from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10-20 cm of new snow and strong winds from a wide range of directions (mostly northwesterly) have scoured some slopes and created touchy wind slabs at tree line and above. Where the wind has not affected the snow, you'll find 50-80cm of recent storm snow from the past week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface. These layers produced sudden results in snowpack tests and have been the suspected weak layer in large remotely (from a distance) triggered avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/54cdf214-c322-48d0-b9ae-647cd2650f6e" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">See here for a good summary of recent snowpack test results near Smithers.</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning up to 37cm of new snow had fallen. Wind data has been sparse, although I suspect strong winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning up to 25cm of new snow had fallen. Wind data has been sparse, although I suspect strong winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1-1.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (120-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of fresh snow has formed thin reactive slabs. The snow sits above a hard crust below 1800 m and on steep south-facing slopes. In alpine terrain, the new snow has buried older wind slabs that may still be reactive in isolated areas. Fragile cornices may be found at ridgetop. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We now have 1- 2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These persistent weak layers that lurk within the snowpack have produced large and destructive avalanches. Although this activity has been diminishing gradually, recent activity and continued sudden snowpack test results have kept them a top concern in the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The complex and widespread nature of our multiple overlapping persistent slab problems continues to demand respect and diligence from backcountry travelers in the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We had 5-10cm of snow last night near the divide. The snow came in on the tail end of the wind storm, so many alpine windslabs may be slightly buried on lee aspects. At all other elevations, the fresh wind slabs are still evident and slightly less reactive than yesterday. Unsupported terrain at treeline will be more prone to wind slab failures. As of 3pm this afternoon the latest pulse of snow has laid down about 3-5cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of storm snow sits above a hard rain crust at most elevations and above firm wind affected snow in the high alpine. It will take time for the new snow to form a solid bond with these varied surfaces - especially the rain crust. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 300 cm of well settled snow with no significant layers of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the northwest, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Wednesday morning up to 15cm of new snow had fallen. I suspect moderate southwest winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 30-40 cm of new storm snow and wind have created wind slabs at upper elevations.  This new snow overlies old wind slabs on leeward slopes at treeline and above, and a mix of surface hoar, facets and sun crusts on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, the new snow covers a rain crust from last Wednesday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still lurking in the snowpack and they deserve a lot of respect. Conservative terrain use is recommended while avoiding all overhead hazard. </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">About 20-30 cm on new snow and winds have led to the creation of wind slabs on leeward features at upper elevations on a wide range of aspects.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas near treeline and below, these slabs overly a layer of surface hoar buried mid-February that has produced very easy, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak, with two main concerns: A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 100-150 cm deep. Second, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November is near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain and avoid overhead hazard. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of light snow sits above a variety of old surfaces, including scoured crusty surfaces on south-facing alpine slopes, a melt-freeze crust up to about 1900 m, and old wind slabs on a range of aspects at high elevations. The mid-January crust is now buried beneath 150-200 cm of settled snow, but a heavy trigger such as a cornice fall could potentially wake up this layer. The lower snowpack is generally strong and well-settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern parts of the region are expecting heavy snowfall on Friday and Saturday, likely forming fresh storm slabs as snow accumulates. Northern parts of the region are getting lighter amounts, so fresh slab development will primarily occur in wind-affected terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few interfaces buried 10-20 cm below the most recent snow could potentially support wide propagations in the fresh storm/wind slabs. These include scoured crusty surfaces on south-facing alpine slopes, a melt-freeze crust up to about 1900 m, and old wind slabs on a range of aspects at high elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-January crust is now buried beneath 80-150 cm of settled snow and may remain sensitive to large triggers - especially in thinner snowpack areas in the north part of the region. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile, and they demand respect. Cornice falls are very effective triggers for avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of new snow has fallen across the region since Tuesday with the highest snowfall amounts in the Terrace area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This new snow sits on a wide array of surfaces - including wind scoured from strong and variable winds during the long weekend, and fresh wind slabs at higher elevations on lee (downwind) slopes, as well as facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below, and suncrusts on steep solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Also a 5-20 cm thick crust/surface hoar layer that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), a deeper crust / surface hoar layer that was buried in mid-January in sheltered areas at treeline and below could still be a concern for triggering from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10-20 cm of new snow and strong winds from a wide range of directions (mostly northwesterly) have scoured some slopes and created wind slabs up to 50 cm thick at tree line and above. In areas sheltered from the wind, you'll find 40-70cm of recent storm snow from the past week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface. These layers produced sudden results in snowpack tests and have been the suspected weak layer in large remotely (from a distance) triggered avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/54cdf214-c322-48d0-b9ae-647cd2650f6e" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">See here for a good summary of recent snowpack test results near Smithers.</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">35cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the northwest, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">25cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Wind data has been sparse, although I suspect strong winds have shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1-1.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (120-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fresh slabs will grow with the incoming storms. A few interfaces buried 20-30 cm below the most recent snow could potentially support wide propagations in the fresh storm/wind slabs. This includes sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes, a rain crust below 1800 m, small surface hoar in isolated areas, and hard wind slabs at upper elevations. Fragile cornices may be found at ridgetop. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We now have 1-2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These persistent weak layers that lurk within the snowpack have produced large and destructive avalanches. Although this activity has been diminishing gradually, recent activity and continued sudden snowpack test results have kept them a top concern in the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The complex and widespread nature of our multiple overlapping persistent slab problems continues to demand respect and diligence from backcountry travelers in the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Our heavy snowfall warning fizzled out and only left 5cm behind. For the moment, this snow remains untouched by the winds. Expect that to change as the winds pick up this evening. The alpine is widespread windslabs or exposed gravel ridges. Treeline has a widespread windslab that is stiff and poorly bonded to the layer underneath. This slab is only 5-10cm thick so it doesn't present a huge  problem, unless a terrain trap is involved. A treeline profile today had the Jan 6th layer down 110cm and the dec 15 layer down 130cm. Neither layer reacted in tests at this location. This suggests the snowpack is &quot;healing&quot;, but we'd like to look at more sites before saying the snowpack is improving.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow is accumulating above a hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain. By Friday afternoon there could be 30 cm of snow above the crust, enough to make reactive slabs in steep terrain. Deeper wind deposits are likely in alpine terrain. The average snow depth at treeline is 300 cm, with no layers of concern in the lower snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-40 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the northwest, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow totals are 10-20cm. I suspect moderate south west through north west winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 30-50 cm of recent storm snow and wind have created wind slabs at upper elevations. This new snow overlies old wind slabs on leeward slopes at treeline and above, as well as sun crusts on solar aspects and a mix of surface hoar and facets in sheltered areas at near treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, this new snow covers a rain crust that was buried on February 8th.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still lurking in the snowpack and they deserve a lot of respect. Conservative terrain use is recommended while avoiding overhead hazard. </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">About 20-40 cm on new snow and winds have led to the creation of wind slabs on leeward features at upper elevations on a wide range of aspects.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas near treeline and below, these slabs overly a layer of surface hoar buried mid-February that has produced very easy, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two main concerns; a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep, and second, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that weak layers are still active and deserve a lot of respect. The solution is to stick to conservative terrain and avoid overhead hazard. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of new snow is expected to form fresh storm slabs on Saturday. The new snow is burying hard wind-affected snow in exposed terrain, a hard crust below 1900 m, and a sun crust on south-facing alpine slopes. The mid-January crust is now buried beneath 150-200 cm of settled snow, but a heavy trigger such as a cornice fall could potentially wake up this layer. The lower snowpack is generally strong and well-settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern parts of the region are expecting heavy snowfall on Saturday and forming fresh storm slabs as snow accumulates. Northern parts of the region are getting lighter amounts, so fresh slab development will primarily occur in wind-affected terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few interfaces buried below the most recent snow could potentially support wide propagations in the fresh storm/wind slabs. These include scoured crusty surfaces on south-facing alpine slopes, a melt-freeze crust up to about 1900 m, and old wind slabs on a range of aspects at high elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-January crust is now buried beneath 80-150 cm of settled snow and may remain sensitive to large triggers - especially in thinner snowpack areas in the north part of the region. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile, and they demand respect. Cornice falls are very effective triggers for avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of recent storm snow has fallen across the region since Tuesday with the highest snowfall amounts in the Terrace area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This new snow sits on a wide array of surfaces - including wind scour and old wind slabs at higher elevations on lee (downwind) slopes, as well as sun crusts on steep solar aspects and facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Also, a 5-20 cm thick crust/surface hoar layer that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), a deeper crust / surface hoar layer that was buried in mid-January in sheltered areas at treeline and below could still be a concern for triggering from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds (mostly northwesterly) have scoured wind-exposed slopes and created wind slabs up to 50 cm thick on leeward slopes at tree line and above. In areas sheltered from the wind, you'll find 30-50 cm of settled storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface. These layers have produced sudden results in recent snowpack tests and may still be sensitive to triggering from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/54cdf214-c322-48d0-b9ae-647cd2650f6e" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">See here for a good summary of recent snowpack test results near Smithers.</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">35cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the northwest, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow has been accumulating for a few days. Saturday's storm is expected to deliver 20-40 cm on top of the 20-30 cm from the past few days. All this new snow is sitting above an interface that could favour wide propagations in the storm snow. The interfaces include sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes, a rain crust below 1800 m and small surface hoar in isolated areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We now have 1-2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These layers produced large destructive avalanches on a regular basis up until last weekend. Avalanche activity on these layers has gradually diminished, but the persistent slab problem still demands respect and diligence.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light flurries throughout the day and overnight but only close to 5cm of accumulations.  Moderate westerly winds continued building on the windslabs that previously existed.  Alpine areas have extensive windslabs from the strong winds earlier in the week.  Its not uncommon to find a drummy feeling as you approach more open terrain.  At treeline the windslabs are more specific in nature such as along ridgelines and in gullies.  A few prominent weak layers still exist at the base of the snowpack.  The Dec 15th interface down 140cm and the January surface hoar layers down 100cm.  Test resulst are still in the hard rnage on these layers but they are highly variable.  Use caution in any areas that have not previously slid and minimize your exposure to overhead terrain. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow is accumulating above a hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain. Reports indicate the snow is poorly bonded to the crust. By Saturday afternoon, storm slabs will likely be over 50 cm thick and become very touchy. There are no significant layers of concern below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-40 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow totals are 10-20cm with more in the very south of the region: </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Dial back your terrain use if you are seeing more than 25 cm of new snow in your location. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate south west through north west winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 40-60 cm of recent storm snow and wind have created storm slabs at upper elevations. This overlies old wind slabs on leeward slopes at treeline and above, as well as sun crusts on solar aspects and a mix of surface hoar and facets in sheltered areas near treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below 1700m, this new snow covers a rain crust that was buried on February 8th.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For the past month there has been regular avalanche activity on multiple weak layers in the mid and lower snowpack. A widespread weak layer from mid December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The take home message is that several weak layers are still lurking in the snowpack and they deserve a lot of respect. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 20-40 cm on new snow and winds have led to the creation of wind slabs on leeward features at upper elevations on a wide range of aspects.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas near treeline and below, these slabs overly a layer of surface hoar buried mid-February that has produced very easy, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two main concerns; a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep, and second, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack. Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</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">25-40 cm of fresh snow sits above variable interfaces including hard wind-affected snow in exposed terrain, a hard crust below 1900 m, and a sun crust on south-facing alpine slopes. Deeper deposits of storm snow exist in lee and cross-loaded alpine terrain. The mid-January crust is now buried beneath 150-200 cm of settled snow, but a heavy trigger such as a cornice fall could potentially wake up this layer. The lower snowpack is generally strong and well-settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's storm delivered ample snow to the region, with the Duffey area receiving at least 30 cm and Coquihalla receiving 40-50 cm. To the north, the storm snow is primarily low density with the exception of exposed terrain where wind has formed slabs. To the south, the snow is likely denser and formed a more widespread slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few interfaces buried last week could potentially support wide propagations in the storm slabs. These include scoured crusty surfaces on south-facing alpine slopes, a melt-freeze crust up to 1700-1900 m, and hard wind damaged snow in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-January crust is now buried beneath 80-150 cm of settled snow and may remain sensitive to large triggers - especially in thinner snowpack areas in the north part of the region. Large, looming cornices exist, they are fragile, and they demand respect. Cornice falls are very effective triggers for avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of recent storm snow has fallen across the region since Tuesday with the highest snowfall amounts in the Terrace area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This new snow sits on a wide array of surfaces - including wind scour and old wind slabs at higher elevations on lee (downwind) slopes, as well as sun crusts on steep solar aspects and facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Also, a 5-20 cm thick crust/surface hoar layer that was buried early February and can be found 60-110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to 1400 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In thinner snowpack areas (north and inland), a deeper crust / surface hoar layer that was buried in mid-January in sheltered areas at treeline and below could still be a concern for triggering from shallow spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds (mostly northwesterly) have scoured wind-exposed slopes and created stiff wind slabs on leeward slopes at tree line and above. In areas sheltered from the wind, you can still find 30-50 cm of settled storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A crust and/or weak feathery surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in the lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern to watch for.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another two crust / surface hoar layers that were buried in December are now 100-150 cm below the surface and may still be sensitive to triggering from shallow snowpack 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">35cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The more recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's storm delivered 20-40 cm of low density snow, except for pockets with soft slabs in exposed terrain. A total of 30-50 cm of snow sits above an interface that could favour wide propagations once the snow settles. The interfaces include sun crusts on steep south-facing slopes, a rain crust below 1800 m and small surface hoar in isolated areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We now have 1-2 m of settled snow sitting on three significant surface hoar/crust layers that were formed early to mid-January, and back in December. Near the base of the snowpack a crust/facet interface exists that will likely haunt us all season. These layers produced large destructive avalanches on a regular basis up until last weekend. Avalanche activity on these layers has gradually diminished, but the persistent slab problem still demands respect and diligence.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-13cm of recent snow at treeline and above has helped to freshen up the skiing.  Windlslabs are being found on all aspects in the alpine due to westerly and now northerly flow.  These slabs had a drummy cakey feel that had us give them a wide berth.  Despite the strong winds, these slabs do not appear to extend far downslope but the forecasting team was only in a treeline feature on Saturday.  We expect them to be more widespread in the alpine.  Deeper in the snowpack the Jan 6th Sh layer was found at 2400m down 120cm.  Tests are producing hard sudden planar results on this interface indicating that if you do cause a failure in the wrong spot, expect a large desctructive avalanche.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall has buried a hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain. The crust is now roughly 40 cm below the surface, and reports suggest the snow will take several days to bond to the crust. The result is a very touchy storm slab above the crust. There are no significant layers of concern below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow totals are 15-30 cm with more in the very south of the region near Kimberley, where totals are closer to 50 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate south west through north west winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-80 cm of recent snow has created storm slabs. The snow fell with strong variable winds, creating wind slabs in direct lee features on all aspects. This overlies a surface hoar layer and a melt-freeze crust buried mid-February up to 1800 m, and old wind slabs and a sun crust at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack. There has been regular avalanche activity on these layers over the past month. If triggered, they could produce large, destructive avalanches with high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30-60 cm of storm snow with strong winds have created widespread loose dry and storm slab avalanche problems.  Some of this snow has been re-distributed with strong winds, creating wind slabs on lee features.  These slabs overly a layer of weak surface hoar buried mid-February that has produced very easy snowpack test results with sudden fracture characters.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two main concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">1)</span><span class="s_3324E81">     </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">2)</span><span class="s_3324E81">     </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving 30-40 cm of low density snow. In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1900 m, which has supported some wide propagations in recent storm slab avalanches. Deeper in the snowpack, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust. This layer is now 150-200 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm could potentially wake up this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving low density snow from the recent storms. In exposed terrain, strong north and east winds have scoured windward slopes and loaded lee slopes. Storm totals from Saturday range from 30 cm in the Duffey area and other northern parts of the region, 50 cm around the Coquihalla, and 40 cm around Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In southern parts of the region, the new snow sits above a widespread crust with well settled snow below the crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust and are avoiding shallow rocky slopes where triggering this layer is most likely. This layer is now 80-150 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm could potentially wake up this layer. Large cornices have also been reported in northern parts of the region, which may be an effective trigger for an avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong northeast outflow winds have redistributed the 40-60 cm of snow that fell since Tuesday. The winds have produced touchy wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features at all elevations </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/d38b7fd5-e696-48a0-bfa6-8fd0c543acbb" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">(as observed in this post</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/68f5aa90-2979-4e89-a781-2c5cd9ab7ce9" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">and this one)</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. This snow sits on a wide variety of surfaces, including wind-scoured and old wind slabs at higher elevations, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below treeline elevations. The surface hoar and facets are found around 60 to 110 cm below the surface on all aspects up to elevations of 1400 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeply buried crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January exists in sheltered areas at treeline and below treeline elevations. Thin spot triggering is the primary concern for this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northerly to easterly winds have created stiff wind slabs on leeward slopes and scoured wind-exposed slopes at all elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, a crust and/or weak surface hoar layer buried in mid-January now lies about 60 to 100 cm below the surface. The crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests have produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this crust in the Smithers area, indicating that this is still a layer of concern.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50 cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The more recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Gusty wind from various directions has scoured some exposed slopes and formed fresh wind slabs on others. Sheltered terrain has 30-50 cm of low density snow from recent storms. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1800 m, but these interfaces have not been involved in recent avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past week and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> 5-10cm of recent snow is overlying windslabs in some areas that are up to 30cm thick.  These windslabs seem to be very variable in terms of extent and location.  On Saturday only minimal slabs were encountered at treeline and then on Sunday in the Heros Bowl area, windslabs well down into treeline caused forecasters to turn around.  Where these slabs are being observed they are failing in the easy to moderate range down 20-40cm.  Deeper in the snowpack the December and January layers can still be found.  Hard results in snowpack tests that are sudden planar in nature indicate that this layer may be getting harder to trigger, but if it goes it will be a large avalanche.  In general these layers are down 100-140cm so be curious and dig and examine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving 30-50 cm of low density snow. In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 40 cm beneath the recent storm snow. Reports suggest the snow has not yet formed a strong bond to the crust, creating a potential bed surface for slab avalanches. Monitor the bond of the new snow to this crust closely in your local area. There are no significant layers of concern below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow totals are 15-30 cm with more in the very south of the region near Kimberley, where totals are closer to 50 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate south west through north west winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-80 cm of recent snow with strong winds have created wind slabs in direct lee features. This overlies a surface hoar layer and a melt-freeze crust buried mid-February up to 1800 m, and old wind slabs and a sun crust at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack. If triggered, they could produce large, destructive avalanches with high consequences.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30-60 cm of storm snow with strong winds have created widespread loose dry and storm slab avalanche problems.  Some of this snow has been re-distributed with strong winds, creating wind slabs on lee features.  These slabs overly a layer of weak surface hoar buried mid-February that has produced very easy snowpack test results with sudden fracture characters.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two main concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">1)</span><span class="s_3324E81">     </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">2)</span><span class="s_3324E81">     </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving 30-40 cm of low density snow. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1900 m, which has supported some wide propagations in recent storm slab avalanches. Deeper in the snowpack, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust. This layer is now 150-200 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm could potentially wake up this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving low density snow from the recent storms. In exposed terrain, strong north and east winds have scoured windward slopes and loaded lee slopes. Storm totals from Saturday range from 30 cm in the Duffey area and other northern parts of the region, 50 cm around the Coquihalla, and 40 cm around Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In southern parts of the region, the new snow sits above a widespread crust with well settled snow below the crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust and are avoiding shallow rocky slopes where triggering this layer is most likely. This layer is now 80-150 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm could potentially wake up this layer. Cornice growth has also been reported in northern parts of the region, which could be a potential trigger for an avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong northeast outflow winds have redistributed the 40-60 cm of recent storm snow. The winds have produced touchy wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features at all elevations </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/33239be6-5348-4de0-a9a3-058eaceae76c" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">(as observed in this post</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/68f5aa90-2979-4e89-a781-2c5cd9ab7ce9" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">and this one)</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.  The recent winds have also caused cornices to grow in size.  The wind slabs sit on a wide variety of surfaces, including wind-scoured and old wind slabs at higher elevations, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below treeline elevations. The surface hoar and facet layers are found around 20 to 40 cm deep as well as 60 to 110 cm deep, generally at treeline and below treeline elevations.  Thin spot triggering is the primary concern for the deeper layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northeasterly winds have created stiff wind slabs on leeward slopes and scoured wind-exposed slopes at all elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, two layers of crust and/or weak surface hoar are 20 to 40 cm deep and 60 to 100 cm deep. The deeper crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests have produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this deeper crust in the Smithers area, suggesting that it is a layer of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The more recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Gusty wind from various directions (primarily northeast) has scoured some exposed slopes and formed fresh wind slabs on others. Sheltered terrain has 30-50 cm of low density snow from recent storms. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1800 m, but these interfaces have not been involved in recent avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past week and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The wind slabs from last week's wind event are under the recent 5-10cm of snow. They are extensive in the alpine and variable at tree line depending upon the drainage. Forecasters are still concerned for triggering these wind slabs 20-40cm down. Secondly, large natural avalanches were still occurring on Feb 16 failing on the deeper persistent layers 100-150cm down(Dec 15 facets and Jan 6 surface hoar). We are still apprehensive to venture out into bigger terrain or travel under large avalanche slopes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving 30-50 cm of low density snow. A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 40 cm beneath the recent storm snow. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust, meaning there's a potential for slab avalanches on any steep or convex terrain feature. Monitor the bond of the snow to this crust closely. There are no significant layers of concern below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches, with a higher frequency in the south east of this region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow totals are 15-30 cm with more in the very south of the region near Kimberley, where totals are closer to 50 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate south west through north west winds shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack which is not tolerating recent storm loads. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All of these layers have produced large avalanches recently. The wide distribution and ongoing reactivity of these layers suggests that avoidance through choosing simple terrain is the best strategy.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-80 cm of recent snow with strong winds have created wind slabs in direct lee features. On steep solar aspects, a thin sun crust exists.  These overly a layer of surface hoar, graupel, and a melt-freeze crust buried mid-February.  The melt-freeze crust exists up to 1700 m in elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar is 120-160 cm deep. Also, a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November is near the base of the snowpack. If triggered, these weak layers could produce large, destructive avalanches with high consequences.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30-60 cm of storm snow with strong winds have created widespread loose dry and storm slab avalanche problems. Some of this snow has been re-distributed with strong winds, creating wind slabs on lee features. These slabs overly a layer of weak surface hoar buried mid-February that has produced very easy snowpack test results with sudden fracture characters.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two primary concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">1)</span><span class="s_3324E81"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">2)</span><span class="s_3324E81"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, especially in the trees the cold weather is preserving 30-40 cm of low density snow. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1900 m, which has supported some wide propagations in recent storm slab avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust. This layer is now 150-200 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm (warming and loading) could potentially wake up this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving low density snow from the recent storms. In exposed terrain, strong north and east winds have scoured windward slopes and loaded lee slopes. Storm totals from Saturday range from 30 cm in the Duffey area and other northern parts of the region, 50 cm around the Coquihalla, and 40 cm around Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In southern parts of the region, the new snow sits above a widespread crust with well settled snow below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust and are avoiding shallow rocky slopes where triggering this layer is most likely. This layer is now 80-150 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm (warming and loading) could potentially wake up this layer. Cornice growth has also been reported in northern parts of the region, which could be a potential trigger for an avalanches on the slopes below them.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong northeast outflow winds redistributed the 40-60 cm of storm snow from last week and weekend.  The winds produced touchy wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features.  The recent cold temperatures are helping to break down these wind slabs, but stiff slabs will likely remain reactive to light and heavy loads where preserved.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wind slabs sit on a wide variety of surfaces, including wind-scoured and old wind slabs at higher elevations, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and facets and surface hoar in sheltered locations at treeline and below treeline elevations.  The surface hoar and facet layers are found around 20 to 40 cm as well as 60 to 110 cm deep and on all aspects and elevation bands.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeply buried crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January exists in sheltered areas at treeline and below treeline elevations.  Thin spot triggering is the primary concern for this layer.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northeasterly winds have created stiff wind slabs on leeward slopes and scoured wind-exposed slopes. The cold temperatures are helping to break down these wind slabs, but they will likely remain reactive to light and heavy loads where preserved.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, two layers of crust and/or weak surface hoar are 20 to 40 cm deep and 60 to 100 cm deep. The deeper crust exists well into the alpine and the surface hoar can be found in sheltered areas in lower alpine and tree line elevations. Snowpack tests have produced hard, sudden results on weak, sugary snow crystals associated with this deeper crust in the Smithers area, suggesting that it is a layer of concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The more recent snow sits on a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a troublesome snowpack. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">Strong and gusty wind from various directions (primarily northeast) has scoured some exposed slopes and formed fresh wind slabs on others. Sheltered terrain, especially in the trees has 30-50 cm of low density snow from last weekend's storm. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1800 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past week and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The alpine has extensive wind slabs covered with  5-10cm of recent snow.  The skiing has been slow with the cold temperatures.  At tree line, some drainages have wind effect and others do not.  The wind slabs are still a concern for human triggering.  The weaker persistent layer known as the December 15 facets is approximately 150cm down and if triggered will produce very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving 30-50 cm of low density snow. A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 40 cm beneath the recent storm snow. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics. This means there's a potential for slab avalanches on any steep or convex terrain feature. Monitor the bond of the snow to this crust closely. There are no significant layers of concern below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie the old interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remains suspect . In the top 150-200 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">Recent storm snow totals are 15-30 cm with more in the very south of the region near Kimberley, where totals are closer to 50 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate south west through north west winds have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on the old interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show sign of improving but still remains suspect. In the top 1-2 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">You are likely to find variable surfaces in open terrain after recent strong winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing cold temperatures are helping to break down and soften these.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar interface is about 40-60 cm down, but is spotty in distribution. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas where the surface hoar exists, it is reactive in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 120-160 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">You are likely to find variable surfaces in open terrain after recent strong winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing cold temperatures are helping to break down and soften these.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar interface is about 40-60 cm down, but little is known about its sensitivity and distribution. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two primary concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Highly variable surface conditions exist with extensive wind effect. In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, especially in the trees you may be able to find 30-40 cm of low density snow. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1900 m, which has supported some wide propagations in recent storm slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deeper in the snowpack, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust. This layer is now 150-200 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm (warming and loading) could potentially wake up this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Extensive wind effect exists at treeline and above. In exposed terrain, strong north and east winds have scoured windward slopes and loaded lee slopes. You can still find low density snow from last Saturday's storm stashed in sheltered trees at treeline and below. The cold temperatures are promoting settlement and surface facetting in the recent storm snow. In southern parts of the region, the new snow (40-50 cm) sits above a widespread crust with well settled snow below the crust. In northern parts of the region up to 30 cm of recent storm snow exists. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust and are avoiding shallow rocky slopes where triggering this layer is most likely. This layer is now 80-150 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (cornice?) or the next major storm (warming and loading) could potentially wake up this layer. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">You're likely to encounter highly variable snow surfaces after recent strong arctic outflow winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing cold temperatures are helping to break down and soften these. Windward slopes (roughly north to east facing) have been scoured back to an old crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wind slabs sit on various old surfaces including sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">You're likely to encounter highly variable snow surfaces after recent strong arctic outflow winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing cold temperatures are helping to break down and soften these. Windward slopes (roughly north to east facing) have been scoured back to an old crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wind slabs sit on various old surfaces including sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Facets at the base of the snowpack can possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north, have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on the old interface the was buried mid February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remains suspect. In the top 1.5-2.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">25-40cm of storm snow from last week is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Winds have been strong from the north west through south west, creating reactive hard wind slabs (10-15 cm thick) in exposed locations on down wind features. </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ridevalemount/videos/1956079874420987/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">See here for a good video summarizing conditions near Valemount.</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations overlie the old interface that was buried mid-February and consists of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack that still remains suspect. In the top 1-1.5 m of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (120-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">Highly variable surface snow exist showing stiff wind slab, wind press, sun crust on steep solar, surface facets and new surface hoar development in sheltered areas at teeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous strong and gusty wind from various directions (primarily northeast) has scoured some exposed slopes and formed fresh wind slabs on others. Sheltered terrain, especially in the trees has 30-50 cm of low density snow from last weekend's storm. A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1800 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past 10 days and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In general, the upper half of the snowpack is not showing any weaknesses and is bonding well. The exception is in the alpine where the wind slabs are 20-40cm thick and are still possible to trigger. The biggest concern is for the December 15 facets which is showing a lower probability of triggering but with a high consequence if an avalanche occurs. Be careful of thinner areas where triggering the deeper layer is more likely.&nbsp; The sun is starting to have some punch to it, so be aware of steep solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </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">Surface snow is highly variable and wind-affected. In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, cold weather is preserving 30-50 cm of low density snow. A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 40 cm beneath the recent storm snow. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics and it remains reactive to human triggers. Monitor the bond of the snow to this crust closely. There are no significant layers of concern below the crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north / east, redistributed these accumulations into tiff wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain. These accumulations overlie the old interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remains suspect . In the top 150-200 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200-250 cm) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">Recent storm snow totals are 15-30 cm with more in the very south of the region near Kimberley, where totals are closer to 50 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate south west through north west winds have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on the old interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show sign of improving but still remains suspect. In the top 80-120 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 150 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">You are likely to find variable surfaces in open terrain after recent strong winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing cold temperatures are helping to break down and soften these.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar interface is about 40-60 cm down, but is spotty in distribution. In sheltered areas where the surface hoar exists, it is reactive in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 120-200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">You are likely to find variable surfaces in open terrain after recent strong winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing strong winds are expected to keep building wind slabs. A crust/surface hoar interface is about 40-60 cm down, but little is known about its sensitivity and distribution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack in this region is weak with two primary concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm snow will fall on highly variable and wind-affected snow surfaces. In exposed terrain, new snow will fall on scoured north facing slopes and wind-loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, new snow will fall on last weekends storm snow. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, a crust layer can be found on sun-exposed slopes below 1900 m, which allowed for slab avalanches to propagate widely over the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Even deeper, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust. This layer is now 150-200 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (such as a cornice fall) or the next major storm (loading and/or warming) could wake this layer up.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm snow will fall on highly variable and wind-affected snow surfaces. In exposed terrain, new snow will fall on scoured north facing slopes and wind-loaded south facing slopes. In sheltered terrain, new snow will fall on last weekend’s storm snow. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in southern parts of the region, recent snow sits above a widespread crust.  Below the crust, well-consolidated snow exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust and are avoiding shallow rocky slopes where triggering this layer is most likely. This layer is now 80-150 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (such as a cornice fall) or the next major storm (loading and/or warming) could wake this layer up.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Incoming snow is expected to be light and dry, but will come with moderate to strong south-westerly winds. Loose snow sluffing and fresh wind slabs are likely problems on Friday. New snow will overlie old soft and hard wind slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Deeper in the snowpack, around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack has gone through several bouts of fighting with strong to extreme northerly winds in the last week. You are likely to encounter wind slabs in many places. Variable surface conditions include fragile cornices, hard and soft wind slabs, and scoured surfaces. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wind slabs sit on various old surfaces including sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Facets at the base of the snowpack can possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm of recent storm snow is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Strong winds, most recently from the north, have redistributed these accumulations into stiff wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain. The recent snow sits on the old interface the was buried mid February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remains suspect. In the top 150-200 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200-250 cm) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">20-40cm of storm snow from last week is settling into a slab in the upper snowpack. Winds have been strong from the north west through south west, creating reactive hard wind slabs (10-15 cm thick) in exposed locations on down wind features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations overlie the old interface that was buried mid-February and consists of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack that still remains suspect. In the top 100-150 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (150-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December, most prevalent at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo, most likely to be triggered from thin spots in the alpine.</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">Highly variable snow surfaces exist, including wind-pressed snow (from primarily northeast winds), stiff wind slabs, sun crusts on steep solar aspects, and 30-50 cm of low density snow in sheltered areas at teeline and below.  A crust layer can be found beneath the storm snow on sun-exposed slopes and below 1800 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and in big avalanche paths.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack doesn't start to become interesting until treeline. Once a month we go to Burstall Pass and dig a profile in a specific area. Today was that day. What we found was a stroll down memory lane. The early season crusts are still there, but they've been pushed to the ground. The problematic Dec 15 layer is down about a meter and seemingly stabilizing. Both of our surface hoar layers are still there, but same thing. No results in any sort of snow test. It's hard to say, but mid-pack layers are getting along much better these days. It's worth noting that the alpine is wind ravaged. Windslabs are pretty much everywhere, and the skiing looks challenging. But, sheltered treeline areas have decent snow. The cold has helped the surface layers facet out and soften.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm snow will fall on highly variable and wind-affected surfaces. In exposed terrain, strong north winds have scoured north facing slopes and produced wind slabs on southern slopes. In sheltered terrain, new snow will fall on last weekends storm snow. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 40 to 70 cm. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics, a Rutschblock 2 (the whole block failing after standing on it), and it remains reactive to human triggers. Monitor the bond of the snow to this crust closely. There are no substantial layers of concern below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects, which will become touchier as they grow in size, temperatures rise, and the sun packs more of a punch. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow now covers 40-60 cm of storm snow from last week that has settled into a slab and been redistributed by previously strong winds into stiff wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations overlie an interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are slowly beginning to show signs of improving, but still remain suspect.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the top 150-200 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or the other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200-250 cm) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December that is most prevalent at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo from late November.</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 light dusting of new snow on Friday now covers storm snow totals from last week that range from15-30 cm, with closer to 50 cm in the very south of the region near Kimberley. Moderate south west through north west winds have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations sit on an interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack that is slowly beginning to show sign of improving but still remains suspect. In the top 80-120 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (around 150 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December that is most prevalent at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo from late November.</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">You are likely to find variable surfaces in open terrain after recent strong winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing cold temperatures are helping to break down and soften these.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar interface is about 40-60 cm down, but is spotty in distribution. In sheltered areas where the surface hoar exists, it is reactive in snowpack tests. Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 160-200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">You are likely to find variable surfaces in open terrain after recent strong winds took out their fury on the upper snowpack. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Ongoing strong winds are expected to keep building wind slabs, which overlie a spotty crust/surface hoar interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late-November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of storm snow fell with strong southerly winds, producing storm slabs on all aspects with deeper deposits found in lee features. This snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, a crust layer can be found on sun-exposed slopes below 1900 m, which allowed for slab avalanches to propagate widely over the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Even deeper, avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust. This layer is now 150-200 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (such as a cornice fall) or the next major storm (loading and/or warming) could wake this layer up.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of storm snow fell with strong westerly winds, producing storm slabs on all aspects with deeper deposits found in lee features.  This snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the snowpack in southern parts of the region, a widespread crust exists around 30 to 50 cm deep.  Below the crust, well-consolidated snow exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Avalanche professionals are still monitoring the mid-January crust and are avoiding shallow rocky slopes where triggering this layer is most likely. This layer is now 80-150 cm deep, but a heavy trigger (such as a cornice fall) or the next major storm (loading and/or warming) could wake this layer up.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline.  Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects.  They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days.  Stand well back of them and avoid them from below!</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind over the weekend are building storm slabs and wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. New snow has buried old hard wind slabs, scoured surfaces and sastrugi in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Deeper in the snowpack, around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow and strong winds over the weekend are building wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. These overlie buried old hard wind slabs, scoured surfaces and sastrugi in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wind slabs sit on various old surfaces including sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Facets at the base of the snowpack can possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow on Friday now covers 40-60 cm of storm snow from last week that has settled into a slab and been redistributed with previously strong winds into stiff wind slabs in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations sit on an interface the was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, a rain crust below 1600m, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack which is slowly beginning to show signs of improving. In the top 150-200 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find one or other of these on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200-250 cm) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December that is most prevalent at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo from late November.</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 light dusting of new snow on Friday now covers 20-40cm of storm snow from last week that has been redistributed by previously strong winds creating reactive hard wind slabs in open areas on downwind features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations overlie an interface that was buried mid-February and consists of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, several persistent weak layers make up a complex snowpack that is starting to show signs of improving but still remains suspect. In the top 100-150 cm of the snowpack, two surface hoar layers buried in January can be found. Expect to find at least one of these layers on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (150-200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer from December that is most prevalent at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo from late November.</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 5 to 10 cm of storm snow fell with strong southwesterly winds, producing slabs on all aspects with deeper deposits in lee features.  This snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.  Deeper in the snowpack, variable surface hoar, faceted grains, and crusts exists around 30 to 50 cm deep, which are showing to be reactive to human traffic.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and in big avalanche paths.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much has changed in the last day. The winds continue to have their way with the alpine snowpack. But unless the winds shift, no more damage can be done since all available snow has been blown away. Treeline is still a mixed bag of decent soft snow and old wind slabs that are faceting(weakening) out with the cold. Below treeline remains the same. None of the persistent layers have become reactive in the last 24 hours. For the most part, these layers are down about a meter and are within a 10-15cm range of each other. For simplicity, we are collectively calling these 3 layers a deep persistent slab problem. Cornices have grown considerably, but at this point they're hanging in there with no failures noted. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 to 30 cm of storm snow fell with strong southwesterly winds, producing storm slabs on all aspects with deeper deposits found in lee features. This snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 50 to 90 cm. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics and a Rutschblock 2 (the whole block failing after standing on it). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Monitor the bonds of the new snow as well as the bond of the snow directly above the buried crust. There are no substantial layers of concern below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5-10 cm of new snow now covers the old snow interface which consists of sugary facets, as well as sun crusts on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-protected slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this interface lies another interface, with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February and is now 40-60 cm below the surface. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and several avalanches have been reported to have failed on this layer in the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 150-200 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200 - 250 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow on Friday now covers storm snow totals from last week that range from15-30 cm, with closer to 50 cm in the very south of the region near Kimberley. Winds have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations sit on an interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Several recent avalanches have failed on this layer in the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 80-120 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack ( about 150 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are building quickly as available light dry snow is moved around by moderate winds. Snow spillage from steep ground is also loading up fan features. In more sheltered locations, you may encounter storm slabs or loose dry sluffing. These upper snowpack problems overlie various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar. Storm slabs and wind slabs were becoming reactive to human triggers on Saturday in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 130-220 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Touchy new wind slabs were found on Saturday in the Crowsnest area. These are expected to continue to build over the next few days. Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Wind slabs overlie various surfaces, including older hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of storm snow fell on Friday and another 25 cm of snow could fall in parts of the region Saturday night, and light flurries are expected Sunday morning. These storms have had strong south to westerly winds associated with them. Expect touchy storm slabs on all aspects with thicker slabs found in lee features. All of this snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces as well as a sun crust on solar aspects. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them and avoid them from below!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of storm snow fell Friday night and another 15 to 30 cm is forecasted Saturday night into Sunday. These storms have had strong westerly winds associated with them. Expect touchy storm slabs on all aspects with thicker slabs in lee features. All of this snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern parts of the region, a widespread crust exists around 40 to 80 cm deep. Well-consolidated snow exists below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them and avoid them from below!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow and wind over the weekend are building storm slabs and wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. Storm snow is sluffing readily in steep terrain. New snow has buried old hard wind slabs, scoured surfaces and sastrugi in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Deeper in the snowpack, around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow and strong winds over the weekend are building wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. These overlie buried old hard wind slabs, scoured surfaces and sastrugi in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The wind slabs sit on various old surfaces including sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Facets at the base of the snowpack can possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10 cm new snow now covers the old snow interface which consists of sugary facets, as well as sun crusts on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-protected slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this interface lies another interface, with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February and is now 40-60 cm below the surface. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and several avalanches have been reported to have failed on this layer in the past week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 150-200 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200 - 250 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5 to 15 cm of new snow now covers the old snow interface which consists of sugary facets as well as sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the old interface lies another interface, with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February and is now 25-50 cm below the snow surface. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and recent avalanches have been reported to have failed on this layer in the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 5 to 10 cm of storm snow on Friday night and another 5 to 10 cm is expected Sunday. The snow fell with strong southerly winds, producing slabs on all aspects with deeper deposits in lee features. This snow fell on variable surfaces, including wind-affected, weak surface hoar, and weak faceted snow. The new snow will likely not bond well to these surfaces and is expected to be reactive to both natural and human triggers. Beneath the new snow, variable surface hoar, faceted snow, and crusts exists around 30 to 50 cm deep, which have been reactive to human traffic.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1-2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and in big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below treeline has really felt the cold. Any area that was loose snow prior to the cold is now weak and facetted. This isn't a bad thing, many windslabs have lost their cohesiveness thanks to that cold snap. At treeline the wind slabs are immediately noticeable once exposed terrain is reached. For the most part these slabs are thin and sometimes breakable. Steep, unsupported terrain may have reactive windslabs lurking, but for the most part the slabs are well bonded to underlying layers. The alpine. Judging from today's trip, it takes a brave soul to do battle with the current windslabs. They are widespread and either breakable or eerily hollow under foot. These feel as though they could be triggered from shallow, transitional areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 to 40 cm of storm snow fell on Friday and another 25 cm of snow is forecasted for Saturday night, with more possible with convective flurries on Sunday. Both of these storms had strong southerly winds. Expect touchy storm slabs on all aspects with deeper deposits found in lee features. All of this snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 100 cm. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics and a Rutschblock 2 (the whole block failing after standing on it). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Monitor the bonds of the new snow as well as the bond of the snow directly above the buried crust. There are no substantial layers of concern below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 15-30 cm of new snow now covers old surfaces which include of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find another interface with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 150-200 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200 - 250 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow now cover storm snow totals from last week that range from15-30 cm, with closer to 50 cm in the very south of the region near Kimberley. Winds have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These accumulations sit on an interface that was buried mid-February consisting of; a mix of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Several recent avalanches have failed on this layer in the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 80-120 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack ( about 150 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are building quickly as available light dry snow is moved around by moderate to strong winds. Snow spillage from steep ground is also loading up fans. In more sheltered locations, you may encounter storm slabs or loose dry sluffing. These upper snowpack problems overlie various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 130-220 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fragile cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Wind slabs overlie various surfaces, including older hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although the snowpack structure is variable across the region, these persistent weak layers are generally widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of storm snow fell on Friday and another 15 to 20 cm fell Saturday night into Sunday. Strong to extreme winds out of the south and southeast were recorded in the early hours of Sunday as the storm exited the region. Previous storms have been accompanied by strong south winds. All of this snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces as well as a sun crust on solar aspects. Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 to 20 cm of storm snow fell Friday night and another 12 to 25 cm fell Saturday night into Sunday. The successive storms were accompanied by strong winds out of the south, southwest, west and northwest. Wind stiffened storm slabs will likely be found in upper elevation terrain and this snow may not be bonding well to the old surface. In the southern portion of the region a widespread crust is down 40 to 80 cm below the surface. Well-consolidated snow exists below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on all aspects in the alpine. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow accumulations of 40-80 cm have been affected by ongoing moderate to strong winds from the south-west through north-west at alpine and treeline elevations. This new snow has buried old hard wind slabs, scoured surfaces and sastrugi in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Deeper in the snowpack, around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow and strong winds are continuously building wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. These overlie buried old hard wind slabs, scoured surfaces and sastrugi in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack can possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 15-30 cm of new snow now covers old surfaces which include sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-60 cm below the surface lies another interface with similar character and distribution. This layer, which was buried in mid-February, has been reactive in snowpack tests and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 150-200 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (200 - 250 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 15-30 cm of new snow now covers old surfaces which include of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">25-60cm below the surface lies another interface, with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December that is most prevalent at treeline elevations and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms over the weekend produced 10 to 30 cm of new snow accompanied by wind out of the southwest, west and northwest. 30 to 50 cm of snow now rests on the mid-February weak layer that includes facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. The layers include several surface hoar and facet layers buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below treeline has really felt the cold. Any area that was loose snow prior to the cold is now weak and facetted. This isn't a bad thing, many windslabs have lost their cohesiveness thanks to that cold snap. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At treeline the wind slabs are immediately noticeable once exposed terrain is reached. For the most part these slabs are thin and sometimes breakable. Steep, unsupported terrain may have reactive windslabs lurking, but for the most part the slabs are well bonded to underlying layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The alpine has windslabs that are widespread and either breakable or eerily hollow under foot. These feel as though they could be triggered from shallow, transitional areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 to 40 cm of storm snow fell on Friday and another 10 to 15 cm of snow fell Saturday night into Sunday. Both of these storms had strong southerly winds. All of this snow fell on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects. The new snow may not bond well to these surfaces and could be reactive to both natural and human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 100 cm. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics and a Rutschblock 2 (the whole block failing after standing on it). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Monitor the bonds of the new snow as well as the bond of the snow directly above the buried crust. There are no substantial layers of concern below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 30-50 cm of new snow now covers old surfaces which include faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain. 50-80 cm below the surface you'll likely find another interface with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and has produced large avalanches, particularly in the south of the region where the overlying slab has become deep and cohesive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers that are showing signs of improvement but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as solar radiation, rapid loading/warming, or a cornice fall. Human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the last couple of days between 5 and 30 centimetres of snow fell with the greatest accumulations occurring in the southwestern corner of the region. Winds have redistributed these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Up to 60cm below the surface you may find an interface that was buried mid-February consisting of older wind slabs in exposed higher elevation terrain, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Several avalanches have failed on this layer in the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers that are slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar layers buried in January are now 80-120 cm below the snow surface. Deeper in the snowpack (about 150 deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as solar radiation, rapid loading/warming, or a cornice fall. Human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</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 wind slabs are building as up to 45 cm of light dry snow fell in the past two days and is being moved around by moderate to strong westerly winds. Snow spillage from steep ground is also loading up fans. In more sheltered locations, you may encounter storm slabs or loose dry sluffing. These upper snowpack problems overlie various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (for example February 14 surface hoar is now 60 to 80 cm below the surface).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200+ cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cornices and hard and soft wind slabs can be found on many alpine and treeline slopes. Wind slabs overlie various surfaces, including older hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns that are generally widespread:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm totals from the weekend are between 25 and 55 cm. This snow was subject to strong to extreme winds out of the southeast, south and southwest on Sunday which formed fresh wind slabs that extend down to treeline. The new snow rests on the February 22nd interface which consists of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Recent testing has shown resistant planar shears at this interface which makes sense given the activity listed above. Beneath the February 22nd interface the snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 to 40 cm of new snow fell over the weekend accompanied by strong winds that were predominantly out of the south, southwest and west. This wind event formed widespread wind slabs that likely extend down into treeline. The new snow rests on the February 23 weak layer that consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. In the southern portion of the region a widespread crust is down 40 to 80 cm below the surface. Well-consolidated snow exists below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on all aspects in the alpine. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow accumulations of 40-80 cm have been affected by ongoing moderate to strong winds from the south-west through north-west at alpine and treeline elevations. Monday's storm will continue this trend with strong northwest winds. Recent storms are burying older hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in wind-exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations). Deeper in the snowpack, around 50-150 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder / drier parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow and strong winds continue to create wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. These cover old hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 20-50 cm of new snow now covers old surfaces which include faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain. 40-70 cm below the surface lies another interface with similar character and distribution. This layer, which was buried in mid-February, has been reactive in snowpack tests and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers that are showing signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as solar radiation, rapid loading/warming, or a cornice fall. Human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 20-40 cm of new snow now covers old surfaces which include of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60cm below the surface lies another interface, with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations. Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms over the weekend produced 10 to 40 cm of new snow accompanied by wind out of the southwest, west and northwest. 30 to 60 cm of snow now rests on the mid-February weak layer that is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A91C021F">Alpine</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">:  Wind slabs are widespread.  Be alert for triggering in shallow areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A91C021F">Treeline</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">:  Wind slabs are noticeable and variable in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A91C021F">Below Treeline</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">:  The snow is now weak and faceted but still supportive to skier traffic.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 to 40 cm of storm snow fell on Friday and another 10 to 15 cm of snow fell Saturday night into Sunday. Both of these storms had strong southerly winds. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 100 cm. Reports suggest the snow has a poor bond to the crust with test results showing sudden planar characteristics and a Rutschblock 2 (the whole block failing after standing on it). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Monitor the bonds of the new snow as well as the bond of the snow directly above the buried crust. There are no substantial layers of concern below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also make note of cornices at ridgeline. Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Saturday night, 25-50 cm of new snow fell. These accumulations cover old surfaces which include faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain. 50-80 cm below the surface you'll find another interface with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February. This layer has been reactive in recent snowpack tests and has produced large avalanches, particularly in the south of the region where the overlying slab has become deep and cohesive. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers that are showing signs of improvement but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as solar radiation, rapid loading/warming, or a cornice fall. Human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Saturday night between 5 and 30 centimetres of snow fell with the greatest accumulations occurring in the southwestern corner of the region. Winds have shifted these accumulations into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Up to 60cm below the surface you may find an interface that was buried mid-February consisting of older wind slabs, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Reports suggest this interface may be most reactive on solar aspects where the buried sun crust coexists with small facets. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar layers buried in January are now 80-120 cm below the snow surface. Deeper in the snowpack (about 150 deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as solar radiation, rapid loading/warming, or a cornice fall. Human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</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 wind slabs are building as approximately 40 cm of light dry snow has fallen in recent days and is being moved around by moderate to strong westerly winds. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (for example February 14 surface hoar is now 50 to 80 cm below the surface).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong to extreme winds have scoured windward slopes and formed cornices and hard and soft wind slabs on (downwind)  alpine and treeline slopes. These wind slabs overlie various surfaces, including older hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns that are generally widespread:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm totals from the weekend are between 25 and 55 cm. This snow was subject to strong to extreme winds out of the southeast, south and southwest on Sunday and Monday which has formed fresh wind slabs that extend down to treeline. The new snow rests on the February 22nd interface which consists of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Reported testing on Monday continues to produce resistant planar shears at this interface which makes sense given the activity listed above. Beneath the February 22nd interface the snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on all aspects. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 to 50 cm of new snow fell over the weekend accompanied by strong winds that were predominantly out of the south, southwest and west. Wind out of the southwest and west picked up again on Monday forming very soft wind slabs that were reactive to skier traffic. These two wind events have formed widespread wind slabs that likely extend down into treeline elevations. You may find the odd wind slab in open features below treeline too. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm and wind slabs rests on the February 23 weak layer that consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Compression tests preformed Monday continue to show resistent planar results at this interface. In the southern portion of the region a widespread crust is down 40 to 80 cm below the surface. Well-consolidated snow exists below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many an alpine ridgeline. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow accumulations of 40-80 cm have been affected by ongoing moderate to strong winds from the south-west through north-west at alpine and treeline elevations. Recent storms are burying older hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in wind-exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack about 50-70 cm deep is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations) that was buried mid-February. Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder / drier parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow and strong winds continue to create wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. These cover old hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Saturday night, 20-50 cm of new snow fell. These accumulations cover old surfaces which include faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain. 40-70 cm below the surface lies another interface with similar character and distribution. This layer, which was buried in mid-February, has just started to produce large avalanches and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers that are showing signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as solar radiation, rapid loading/warming, or a cornice fall. Human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Saturday night, 20-50 cm of new snow fell. These accumulations cover old surfaces which include faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on shaded, wind-sheltered slopes. I suspect strong winds will have redistributed much of the new snow into fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-65cm below the surface lies another interface, with similar character and distribution that was buried mid-February. This layer has produced large avalanches in the neighbouring North Columbia region, and is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the overlying slab gains thickness and cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within the mid and lower snowpack are several persistent weak layers that are slowly beginning to show signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. Two surface hoar/ crust layers buried in January are now 100-150 cm below the snow surface. At least one of these layers can be found on all aspects and elevations. Deeper in the snowpack (150 - 200 cm deep) is a facet/crust/surface hoar layer buried in December. Near the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo layer buried in late November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms over the weekend produced 10 to 40 cm of new snow accompanied by wind out of the southwest, west and northwest. In some locations this snow rests on the February 23rd weak layer which is composed of small surface hoar on polar aspects and a thin crust on solar aspects. 30 to 60 cm of snow now rests on the mid-February weak layer that is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5 to 8cm of new snow in the past 24hrs at Treeline. Widespread wind effect in Alpine and Treeline areas, with highly variable wind directions. Surface snow has been facetting on sheltered northerly aspects Below Treeline, and has been reactive to ski cutting in steep terrain in recent days. Several snow profiles today across the region indicate a well settled and dense midpack. The persistent weak layers from Jan 18, Jan 6 and Dec 15 are still evident in the snowpack but there were no test results from compression tests on these layers 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">The region picked up 10 to 15 cm of new snow as of Tuesday afternoon which has been quite touchy. 40 to 55 cm of storm snow fell over the weekend accompanied by strong southerly winds. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 120 cm deep. There are no substantial weak layers below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the sun packs a strong punch on clear days. Stand well back of them!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">Around 20 to 40 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. It also covers old surfaces including faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on shady slopes. Around 50 to 80cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above. It also seems more of a problem in southern areas of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Up to 60cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are building as approximately 40-50 cm of light dry snow has fallen in recent days and is being moved around by moderate to strong westerly winds. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (for example February 14 surface hoar is now 50 to 70 cm below the surface).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong to extreme winds have scoured windward slopes and formed cornices and hard and soft wind slabs on (downwind) alpine and treeline slopes. These wind slabs overlie various surfaces, including older hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns that are generally widespread:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm totals from the weekend are between 25 and 55 cm. This snow was subject to strong to extreme winds out of the southeast, south and southwest on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday which has formed widespread wind slabs that extend down to treeline. The new snow rests on the February 22nd interface which consists of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Snowpack testing on Tuesday continues to produce resistant planar shears at this interface which makes sense given the activity listed above. Beneath the February 22nd interface the snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 to 50 cm of new snow fell over the weekend accompanied by strong winds that were predominantly out of the south, southwest and west. Wind out of the southwest and west picked up again on Monday forming very soft wind slabs that were reactive to skier traffic. These two wind events have formed widespread wind slabs that likely extend down into treeline elevations. You may find the odd wind slab in open features below treeline too. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm and wind slabs rests on the February 23 weak layer that consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Compression tests preformed Monday continue to show resistent planar results at this interface. In the southern portion of the region a widespread crust is down 40 to 80 cm below the surface. Well-consolidated snow exists below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many an alpine ridgeline. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow accumulations of 50-100 cm have been affected by ongoing moderate to strong westerly winds at alpine and treeline elevations. Recent storms are burying older hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in wind-exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack about 100-150 cm deep, is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations) that was buried mid-February. Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder / drier parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snow and strong winds continue to create wind slabs in open terrain at alpine and treeline elevations. These cover old hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in many exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50-150 cm down, you will find a crust/surface hoar layer from mid-January, which still has the chance to surprise you and could be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">Around 40 to 60 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">Around 60 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed into slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 35 cm of new snow Tuesday and Wednesday which adds to the two successive storms over the weekend that produced 10 to 40 cm of new snow. The weekend storm was accompanied by wind out of the southwest, west and northwest. In some locations this snow rests on the February 23rd weak layer which is composed of small surface hoar on polar aspects and a thin crust on solar aspects. 30 to 60 cm of snow now rests on the mid-February weak layer that is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 15 cm of snow during the day Wednesday with moderate winds out of the east/southeast. This adds to the 20 cm that fell Tuesday. 40 to 55 cm of storm snow fell over the weekend accompanied by strong southerly winds. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 120 cm deep. There are no substantial weak layers below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong mid-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">The 30 to 50cm of recent storm snow is &quot;right side up&quot; and settling. Earlier in the last storm it was redistributed into localized wind slabs. It covers old surfaces including faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on shady slopes. Around 50 to 80cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar. March 01 today -- 'tis the season when solar aspects start to get complicated!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E6FD2046">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of recent storm snow (in the south and west parts of the region) was redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain by south and southwest flow. Up to 60cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall or smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 40-70 cm of light dry snow has fallen in during the past week. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">About 15-30 cm of new snow now covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns that are generally widespread:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Wednesday night storm produced far more snow than expected, 20 to 45 cm fell across the region accompanied by winds out of the east, southeast and south. In wind exposed terrain the new snow rests on widespread wind damaged snow and wind slabs that were formed by the weekend snow and strong to extreme winds earlier this week out of the southeast, south and southwest. In wind sheltered terrain the new snow may be sitting on a thin layer of surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 22nd interface is now down 50 to 70 cm, this layer is composed of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Snowpack testing on Wednesday continues to produce planar shears at this interface. As we move towards the weekend south facing slopes will be the most suspect with regard to this layer. Beneath the February 22nd interface the snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 5 to 10 cm of snow Wednesday night which adds to the 20 to 50 cm that fell over the weekend. Wind over the last few days out of the south, southwest and west formed widespread wind slabs, but these wind slabs are becoming more stubborn and somewhat resistent to human triggering. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 23 weak layer is now down 30 to 70 cm below the surface. This interface consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Compression tests preformed Wednesday continue to show planar results at this interface. In the southern portion of the region a widespread crust is down 40 to 80 cm below the surface. Well-consolidated snow exists below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow accumulations of 50-100 cm have buried old, hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in wind-exposed areas. In wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper pack about 100-150 cm deep, is an interface of sun crusts, facets and spotty surface hoar (which is most prevalent in sheltered treed locations) that was buried mid-February. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder / drier parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 40-60 cm of new and recent storm snow now covers old, hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in many exposed areas while in wind-sheltered terrain, sun crusts or dry facets sit below the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80 - 140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could also possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 40 to 60 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as having a low probability of triggering yet a high consequence avalanche if they are triggered. We're talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed into slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as a low probability to trigger, yet high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 40 cm of new snow Tuesday and Wednesday which adds to the two successive storms over the weekend that produced 10 to 40 cm of new snow. The weekend storm was accompanied by wind out of the southwest, west and northwest. In some locations this snow rests on the February 23rd weak layer which is composed of small surface hoar on polar aspects and a thin crust on solar aspects. 40 to 70 cm of snow now rests on the mid-February weak layer that is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This week so far we have only seen 10cm of new snow at the higher elevations.  This snow has been moved around by the NW flow adding load to the previous existing windslabs that had formed across the region.  Forecasters can confirm that wind affected snow is the norm.  Any above treeline terrain has been pummeled by the winds making travel fast but skiing not so appealing.  Cold temps have also facetted out the upper snowpack below treeline making shallow areas very weak.  The midpack is well settled but we are in need of new snow for a bit of a re-set within the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 40 cm of snow Wednesday and Thursday with moderate winds out of the east/southeast. This adds to the 50 to 70 cm that fell between Saturday and Tuesday. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 120 cm deep. There are no substantial weak layers below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong mid-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">An additional 10-25cm of new snow fell Thursday into Friday, bringing the storm snow total this week to 40 to 70cm. Earlier in the last storm it was redistributed into localized wind slabs. It covers old surfaces including faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on shady slopes. Around 50 to 80cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar. March 01 today -- 'tis the season when solar aspects start to get complicated!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. I'm talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow (in the south and west parts of the region) has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain by south and southwest flow. Up to 60cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary faceted snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall or smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-60 cm of new low density accumulated in the region over Friday night. This brings snowfall totals from the past week to about 100 cm. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and more isolated surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">About 15-30 cm of new snow now covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is weak with two primary concerns that are generally widespread:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Wednesday night storm produced far more snow than expected, 20 to 45 cm of slightly upside down snow fell across the region accompanied by winds out of the east, southeast and south. In wind exposed terrain the new snow rests on widespread wind damaged snow and wind slabs. In wind sheltered terrain the new snow may be sitting on a thin layer of surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 22nd interface is now down 50 to 70 cm, this layer is composed of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Snowpack testing on Thursday continues to produce planar shears at this interface. As we move into the weekend south facing slopes will be the most suspect with regard to this layer. Beneath the February 22nd interface the snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 10 to 40 cm of storm snow this week accompanied by wind mainly out of the southeast, south and southwest. As the storm exited the region Thursday winds shifted to the east/northeast. This new storm snow rests on top of old wind slabs that are becoming more stubborn and somewhat resistent to human triggering. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 23 weak layer is now down 30 to 70 cm below the surface. This interface consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Compression tests preformed Thursday continue to show planar results at this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds have been scouring and redistributing recent storm snow accumulations of 50-100 cm into deep and reactive wind slabs on a variety of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Within this storm snow, a layer of surface hoar down about 10 cm has been reported as reactive to skier traffic in sheltered areas below treeline.  The interface at the base of the storm snow consists of heavily wind affected surfaces at higher elevations as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another interface composed of sun crust, facets, and more isolated surface hoar can be found about 100-150 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder and drier parts of the region, such as in the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong outflow winds have been redistributing&nbsp; 50-70 cm of new and recent storm in exposed areas. This storm snow has buried old, hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in exposed areas as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could also possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 60 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed into deeper, reactive slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as having a low probability of triggering yet a high consequence avalanche if they are triggered. We're talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm of recent storm snow is settling and has been redistributed into slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as a low probability to trigger, yet would produce a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 60 cm of new snow this week with widely variable winds. Moderate to strong east/southeast winds picked up Thursday night and added some stiffness to the storm slab at all elevations. In some locations this snow rests on the February 23rd weak layer which is composed of small surface hoar on polar aspects and a thin crust on solar aspects. Moderate resistant planar shears were reported at this interface Friday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 90 cm of snow now rests on the mid-February weak layer that is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for the past two weeks and snowpack tests are showing improved bonding. Despite these signs, avalanche professionals are still treating these layers with respect and being cautious around shallow start zones and big avalanche paths.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We received 10-15cm of low density snow last night. The southern areas received the bulk of it, while the northern areas escaped the full up-slope punch. There was some wind associated with the storm, but only enough to create very soft windslabs. These slabs appear to be on all aspects above 2300m. While this snow certainly helps the ski quality, in most alpine and treeline areas, the windslabs are still felt while traveling. The windslabs are our main concern at the moment. Expect to find breakable slabs, hard slab and the occasional area of soft snow. Ski quality is better below treeline where the windslabs have facetted (weakened) out.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 40 cm of snow Wednesday and Thursday with moderate winds out of the east/southeast. This adds to the 50 to 70 cm that fell between Saturday and Tuesday. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 120 cm deep. There are no substantial weak layers below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">An additional 20-40cm of new snow fell Thursday through Friday, bringing the storm snow total this week to 50 to 80cm. This storm snow has been redistributed into localized wind slabs. It covers old surfaces including faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on shady slopes. Around 70 to 100cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability to trigger yet will result as a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 10-20cm of new snow Friday into Saturday brings storm snow amounts for the last week to 50-80cm (higher amounts in the south and west parts of the region). This new snow has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain by primarily south, southwest and southeast wind. 60-90cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary faceted snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall or smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-60 cm of new low density snow accumulated in the region over Friday night. This brings snowfall totals from the past week to about 100 cm. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and more isolated surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">After 10-25 cm of new snow fell over Friday night, about 25-40 cm of accumulated storm snow now covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally weak with two primary concerns that are widespread:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1) A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2) A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Wednesday night storm produced far more snow than expected, 20 to 45 cm of slightly upside down snow fell across the region accompanied by winds out of the east, southeast and south. In wind exposed terrain the new snow rests on widespread wind damaged snow and wind slabs. In wind sheltered terrain the new snow may be sitting on a thin layer of surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 22nd interface is now down 50 to 70 cm, this layer is composed of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Snowpack testing on Thursday continues to produce planar shears at this interface. As we move into the later half of the weekend south facing slopes will be the most suspect with regard to this layer. Beneath the February 22nd interface the snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Coquihalla picked up a surprise 35 to 45 cm of snow Friday and Friday night with light easterly winds which is now hiding previously formed wind slabs. Mainly southerly winds formed these wind slabs as they interacted with up to 120 cm of storm snow that has fallen in the last week. All of the new snow rests on the February 23 weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 23 weak layer is down 80 to 120 cm below the surface. This interface consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Compression tests preformed Friday continue to show planar results at this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds have been scouring and redistributing recent storm snow accumulations of 50-100 cm into deep wind slabs on a variety of aspects in wind-exposed terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas at treeline and below, 20-30 cm of settling snow sits over a layer of surface hoar that was recently reported as reactive to skier traffic. Below this, the interface at the base of the storm snow consists of heavily wind affected surfaces at higher elevations as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain. These two layers are the concerns identified in our persistent slab problem.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another interface composed of sun crust, facets, and more isolated surface hoar can be found about 100-150 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder and drier parts of the region, such as in the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong outflow winds have been redistributing 50-70 cm of new and recent storm snow in exposed areas. This storm snow has buried old, hard wind slabs and scoured surfaces in exposed areas as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could also possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 60 cm of storm snow from the past week has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain on most aspects. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar sitting above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as having a low probability of triggering yet a high consequence avalanche if they are triggered. We're talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm of recent storm snow is settling and has been redistributed into slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as a low probability to trigger, yet would produce a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 to 20 cm of new snow fell Friday night with light winds mainly out of the southwest. This adds to the 20 to 60 cm of new snow that fell this week with widely variable winds. Moderate to strong east/southeast winds picked up Thursday night and added some stiffness to the storm slab at all elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 23rd weak layer is now down 40 to 90 cm and is composed of small surface hoar on polar aspects and a thin crust on solar aspects. Moderate resistant planar shears were reported at this interface Friday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February weak layer is down 40 to 130 cm and is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects. This interface is likely most problematic on south facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two deeper weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for a few weeks and they are thought to have gone dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow continued overnight and today. So far storm totals are approaching 25cm at treeline. For the most part this new snow has come in with little wind, however there has been just enough of it to build soft windslabs. Some minor cracking was noted today within the new windslabs, but not enough to make an avalanche problem just yet. The weak mid pack is easily felt in the valley bottom and treeline elevations. If the new slabs firm up, these weak facets could become a sliding layer. The deeper instabilities are handling the new load well for the time being. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 40 cm of snow Wednesday and Thursday with moderate winds out of the east/southeast. This adds to the 50 to 70 cm that fell between Saturday and Tuesday. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A hard rain crust that extends into alpine terrain is buried about 60 to 120 cm deep. There are no substantial weak layers below the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">An additional 20-40cm of new snow fell Thursday through Saturday, bringing the storm snow total this week to 50 to 90cm. This storm snow has been redistributed into localized wind slabs. It covers old surfaces including faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on shady slopes. Around 70 to 110cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability to trigger yet will result as a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts from the last week total 50-80cm (higher amounts in the south and west parts of the region). This new snow has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain by primarily south, southwest and southeast wind. 70-100cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary faceted snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall or smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50-60 cm of new low density snow accumulated in the region over Friday night. This brings snowfall totals from the past week to about 100 cm. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and more isolated surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-25 cm of new snow falling Friday night, brings accumulated storm snow total to 25-40cm. This new snow covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. The lower snowpack is generally weak with two primary concerns that are widespread:</span></p><ul start="1" style="list-style-type:disc"><li value="1" class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></li><li value="2" class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></li></ul>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin sun crust has formed on solar aspects and the surface is wind affected in most exposed terrain. 40 cm of storm snow from last week is gradually settling and may be sitting on a thin layer of surface hoar in sheltered areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 22nd interface is now 50 to 70 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of old wind slabs, spotty surface hoar, facets and a sun crust on solar aspects. Snowpack testing suggests this layer may remain reactive, particulary on south-facing slopes. The snowpack is well settled and stronge beneath the February 22nd interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Coquihalla picked up a surprise 35 to 45 cm on Friday which is now hiding previously formed wind slabs. Mainly southerly winds formed these wind slabs as they interacted with up to 120 cm of storm snow that fell last week. All of the new snow rests on the February 23 weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 23 weak layer is now 80 to 120 cm deep in the southern part of the region and about 40 cm deep in northern parts of the region. This interface consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Compression tests preformed Friday continue to show planar results at this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds have scoured and redistributed storm snow accumulations of 50-70 cm into deep wind slabs on a variety of aspects in wind-exposed terrain. In sheltered areas at treeline and below, 20-30 cm of settling snow sits over a layer of surface hoar that has been reactive to skier traffic. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few deeper interfaces may have been reactive during the recent storm, but have become much harder to trigger since. These include layers of sun crust, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 70-150 cm below the surface. Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder and drier parts of the region, such as in the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong outflow winds have been redistributing 50-70 cm of new and recent storm snow in exposed areas. This storm snow has buried old, hard wind affected snow in exposed areas as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could also possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 60 cm of storm snow from the past week has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain on most aspects. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar sitting above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as having a low probability of triggering yet would produce a high consequence avalanche if they are triggered. We're talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm of recent storm snow is settling and has been redistributed into slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as a low probability to trigger, yet would produce a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 to 20 cm of new snow fell Friday night, bringing weekly storm totals up to 40-60 cm. Moderate to strong east/southeast winds picked up Thursday night and added some stiffness to storm slabs at all elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The February 23rd weak layer is now down 40 to 90 cm and is composed of small surface hoar on polar aspects and a thin crust on solar aspects. Moderate resistant planar shears were reported at this interface Friday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February weak layer is down 40 to 130 cm and is composed of facets, surface hoar and a sun crust on solar aspects. This interface is likely most problematic on south facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two deeper weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for a few weeks and they are thought to have gone dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">25-40cm of snow has fallen since Friday.  In the tree elevations, this storm snow is laying on top of a weaker snowpack.  Some soft slab development has occurred in the alpine but is isolated for the time being.  If the winds pick up and start to move the snow around, the wind slabs will develop and the hazard will increase in the alpine and open areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 40 cm of snow Wednesday and Thursday with moderate winds out of the east/southeast. This adds to the 50 to 70 cm that fell earlier in the week. All of this snow rests on previously wind-affected surfaces and a sun crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow total last week is 50 to 90cm and has now mostly settled. This new snow has been redistributed into localized wind slabs. It covers old surfaces including faceted powder, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on shady slopes. Around 70 to 110cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability to trigger yet will result as a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow, rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts from the last week total 50-80cm (higher amounts in the south and west parts of the region). This new snow has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain by primarily south, southwest and southeast wind. 70-100cm below the surface there's a layer buried mid-February that's a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers that have shown signs of improving but still remain suspect as low probability - high consequence avalanche problems. We are talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary faceted snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall or smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last weeks storms totaled 100cm of snow accumulation in parts of the region. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and more isolated surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Accumulated storm snow from last week totals 25-40cm. This new snow covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. The lower snowpack is generally weak with two primary concerns that are widespread:</span></p><ul start="1" style="list-style-type:disc"><li value="1" class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A widespread weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></li><li value="2" class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></li></ul>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin sun crust has formed on solar aspects and the surface is wind affected in most exposed terrain. Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin sun crust has formed on solar aspects and the surface is wind affected in most exposed terrain. Southern parts of the region, such as the Coquihalla, received up to 100 cm of snow last week while northern regions received closer to 40 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February weak layers are now 80 to 120 cm deep in the southern part of the region and about 40 cm deep in northern parts of the region. These interfaces consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Some of these layers have been reactive in snowpack tests, but no recent avalanche activity has been reported on these layers. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow consists of thin sun crusts, soft faceted snow, and wind damaged snow on a range of aspects in exposed terrain. In sheltered areas at treeline and below, 20-30 cm of snow sits over a layer of surface hoar that has been reactive to skier traffic. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few deeper interfaces may have been reactive during last week's storm, but have become much harder to trigger since. These include layers of sun crust, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50-100 cm below the surface. Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder and drier parts of the region, such as in the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong outflow winds have redistributed 50-70 cm of recent storm snow in exposed areas. This storm snow has buried old, hard wind affected snow in exposed areas as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets at the base of the snowpack could also possibly be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow from the past week has been redistributed into wind slabs in wind-exposed terrain on most aspects. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar sitting above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as having a low probability of triggering yet would produce a high consequence avalanche if they are triggered. We're talking about surface hoar layer buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow is settling and has been redistributed into slabs in wind-exposed terrain. Below this is a layer buried mid-February that presents as a sun crust on solar aspects, and spotty surface hoar on sheltered slopes. This layer looks most concerning on on solar aspects where it's associated with with small facets or surface hoar above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several deeper layers in the mid-pack that have shown signs of improving but remain on the radar as a low probability to trigger, yet would produce a high consequence avalanche if triggered. We are talking about surface hoar buried back in December and January. Near the base of the snowpack is a November crust combined with loose sugary snow. These layers may &quot;wake-up&quot; with strong inputs such as sustained warming, sustained snowfall, large triggers (e.g. cornice fall, smaller avalanches coming down from above); human triggering is also possible in shallow snowpack areas with variable snow depth and convoluted terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated flurries have delivered sporadic and localized accumulations of new snow. Snowfall amounts from the past week are 40-60 cm with the exception of the Rossland area which received 80-100 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of interfaces 50-100 cm below the surface will potentially remain reactive to human triggering and have given sudden results in recent snowpack tests. This includes small surface hoar on polar aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two deeper weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for a few weeks and they are thought to have gone dormant at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Today we skied up to Tent Ridge. It was fairly windy where we were and noticed the wind blowing in many of our ski areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">40cm of storm snow in the alpine has started to slab up with Sunday night and Monday's winds. These new slabs are reactive to skier traffic, especially on lee sides and cross loaded gullies. These new slabs overly harder buried wind slabs which produced moderate test results in the pit we dug today. The deeper persistent layers that are 80-180cm down were found but did not produce any test results. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated flurries are depositing light amounts of new snow throughout the region and sporadic sunny breaks could weaken the surface snow. 50-70 cm of storm snow from last week is settling and gaining strength. On southerly aspects, the storm snow sits above a sun crust which is a potential sliding layer to monitor.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow continues to settle and dry out. Variable recent winds have left behind wind slabs on many slopes at treeline and above. These are expected to heal within a day or two. Direct sun is likely to weaken surface snow layers and give cornices a bit of an extra nudge too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, this interface was most reactive on solar aspects, where it presents as a buried sun crust. However, it has been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with significant warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow continues to settle and dry out. Variable recent winds have left behind wind slabs on many slopes at treeline and above. These are expected to heal within a day or two. Direct sun is likely to weaken surface snow layers and give cornices a bit of an extra nudge too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, this interface was most reactive on solar aspects, where it presents as a buried sun crust. However, it has been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with significant warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms totaled 100cm of snow accumulation in parts of the region. This storm snow overlies various old surfaces including old hard wind slabs, crusts, facets and more isolated surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December weak layer sits about 200 cm deep. This consists of a crust, facets or surface hoar. Near the base of the snowpack, a crust/facet layer could be awoken from a thin-spot trigger point, or with a very large load like a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Accumulated storm snow from last week totals 25-40cm. This new snow covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. The lower snowpack is generally weak with two primary concerns that are widespread:</span></p><ul start="1" style="list-style-type:disc"><li value="1" class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer from mid-December composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar that is 100-150 cm deep.</span></li><li value="2" class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A rain crust with sugary facets buried in late November near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></li></ul>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin sun crust has formed on solar aspects and the surface is wind affected in most exposed terrain. Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin sun crust has formed on solar aspects and the surface is wind affected in most exposed terrain. Southern parts of the region, such as the Coquihalla, received up to 100 cm of snow last week while northern regions received closer to 40 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February weak layers are now 80 to 120 cm deep in the southern part of the region and about 40 cm deep in northern parts of the region. These interfaces consists of wind hardened snow, facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. Some of these layers have been reactive in snowpack tests, but no recent avalanche activity has been reported on these layers. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow consists of thin sun crusts, sugary faceted snow, and wind pressed snow on a range of aspects in exposed terrain. In sheltered areas at treeline and below, 20-30 cm of snow sits over a layer of surface hoar that has been reactive to skier traffic in isolated locations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few deeper interfaces may have been reactive during last week's storm, but are becoming less likely to human trigger. These include layers of sun crust, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50-100 cm below the surface. Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down, you'll find a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. Basal facets may be found near the bottom of the snowpack in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as in the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong outflow winds have redistributed 50-70 cm of recent storm snow in exposed areas. This storm snow has buried hard wind affected snow in exposed areas as well as sun crusts or dry facets in sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may still be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow continues to settle and dry out. Variable recent winds have left behind wind slabs on many slopes at treeline and above. These are expected to heal within a day or two. Direct sun is likely to weaken surface snow layers and give cornices a bit of an extra nudge too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Initially, this interface was most reactive on solar aspects, where it presents as a buried sun crust. However, it has been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with significant warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow continues to settle and dry out. Variable recent winds have left behind wind slabs on many slopes at treeline and above. These are expected to heal within a day or two. Direct sun is likely to weaken surface snow layers and give cornices a bit of an extra nudge too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with significant warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. They seem to be most concerning where they are associated with a sun crust on solar aspects. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated flurries have delivered sporadic and localized accumulations of new snow. Snowfall amounts from the past week are 40-60 cm with the exception of the Rossland area which received 80-100 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of interfaces 50-100 cm below the surface will potentially remain reactive to human triggering and have given sudden results in recent snowpack tests. This includes small surface hoar on polar aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two deeper weak layers that formed in January and December are gradually gaining strength. Several surface hoar and facet layers are buried 1 to 2 m below the surface and there is a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on these layers for a few weeks and they are thought to have gone dormant at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The high alpine is experiencing stronger winds than expected. As expected, windslabs are a growing concern in the alpine. The question is are they reactive or not. We suspect yes- in certain places. Steep alpine slopes (35-40 degree plus) are suspect. The windslabs are also &quot;laminated&quot;. Meaning that there are multiple slabs stacked up on each other with possible weaknesses between them. Open areas at treeline are less suspect as the winds haven't touched that area yet. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated flurries are depositing light amounts of new snow throughout the region and sporadic sunny breaks could weaken the surface snow. 50-70 cm of snow from last week is settling and gaining strength. On southerly aspects, the storm snow sits above a sun crust which is a potential layer to monitor.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Solar aspects have developed new sun crusts, which new snow may sluff easily on. Recent storm snow continues to settle. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Solar aspects have developed new sun crusts, which new snow may sluff easily on. Recent storm snow and wind slabs continue to settle. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of recent storm snow and sun crusts on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of a combination of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">No recent avalanches have occurred on these persistent weak layers. However, the primary concern looking ahead towards the weekend and early next week is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sun crusts on solar aspects with generally better riding conditions on north and east aspects. Accumulated storm snow from last week totals 25-40cm. This new snow covers previously wind-scoured, westerly slopes and old hard and soft wind slabs on leeward, easterly alpine and treeline slopes. Beneath these old wind slabs lies a well-settled mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally weak with the primary concern being a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread. The primary concern looking ahead towards the weekend and early next week is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation.</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">New snow will accumulate on Thursday and Friday and form extra deep deposits in wind loaded terrain. The new snow is falling on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden reactive results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow will accumulate on Thursday and Friday and form extra deep deposits in wind loaded terrain. The new snow is falling on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region the mid-February weak layer is about 40 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. No recent avalanche activity has been reported on these layers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is well settled in southern parts of the region (e.g. Coquihalla and Manning Park).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow consists of thin sun crusts, sugary faceted snow, and wind pressed snow on a range of aspects in exposed terrain. In sheltered areas at treeline and below, 20-30 cm of snow sits over a layer of surface hoar that has been reactive to skier traffic in isolated locations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper/mid-pack you will likely find layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50-100 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down there is a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack would likely be found in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect to find sun crusts on steep solar aspects. The old wind slabs created over the weekend are faceting and becoming less reactive to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may still be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Solar aspects have developed new sun crusts which new snow may sluff easily on. Recent storm snow continues to settle. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, this interface was most reactive on solar aspects, where it presents as a buried sun crust. However, it has been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent storm snow continues to settle and dry out. New wind slabs may build on Thursday lee to the south, at alpine and treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow could accumulate by Thursday afternoon, with even deeper deposits possible at higher elevations. The new snow is falling on mostly unconsolidated snow from last week's storm and possibly on a sun crust on south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of interfaces exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on polar aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The winds are the most interesting part. We have had three days of moderate winds from the SW and tomorrow, they are calling for more winds from the West. This has created a wind slab that is 30-60cm deep and will be mostly found along lee features, and in cross loaded gullies.The hazard rating for the alpine is Considerable, mostly because of these new wind slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Thursday will be the first warmish type day with freezing levels rising to 1800m or valley bottom of the Spray road.  The skiing has remained good at tree line and below.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow will accumulate on Thursday and Friday and form extra deep deposits in wind loaded terrain. The new snow is falling on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and an overall well settled snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices have formed on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 cm new snow has formed storm slabs and variable wind slabs, which overlie sun crusts on solar aspects. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 60-120 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-20 cm new snow has formed storm slabs, which overlie over sun crusts on solar aspects. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of new snow on Thursday is sitting on a sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 100 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of a combination of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm. </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 10 cm of new snow on Thursday overlies sun crusts on solar aspects with generally better riding conditions on north and east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally weak with the primary concern being a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread. The primary concern looking ahead towards the weekend and early next week is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation.</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">New snow accumulating on Thursday into Friday has been redistributed by southerly winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow accumulating on Thursday into Friday has been redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations. The new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region the mid-February weak layer is about 40 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. No recent avalanche activity has been reported on these layers. The snowpack is well settled in southern parts of the region (e.g. Coquihalla and Manning Park).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow consists of thin sun crusts, sugary faceted snow, and wind pressed snow on a range of aspects in exposed terrain. In sheltered areas at treeline and below, 20-30 cm of snow sits over a layer of surface hoar that has been reactive to skier traffic in isolated locations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper/mid-pack you will likely find layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50-100 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down there is a crust/surface hoar layer from January which still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like cornice fall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack would likely be found in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect to find sun crusts on steep solar aspects. The old wind slabs created over the weekend are faceting and becoming less reactive to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may still be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 cm new snow has formed storm slabs and variable thin wind slabs which overlie sun crusts on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 cm new snow has formed storm slabs and variable thin wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25cm of new snow is forecast to fall Thursday into Friday morning. This new snow sits on mostly unconsolidated snow from last week and possibly on a sun crust on south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on polar aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well. Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We skied into the Pocaterra ridge area near Highwood Pass today. There was 5-10cm of new snow from last night. The wind slabs from the recent westerly winds can be found mostly on the lee of ridges and on cross loaded features. There was some sun crust that formed on solar aspects. Cornices are starting to be on our radar and this will be more of a concern as the temperatures start to warm up this weekend.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow accumulating through Thursday into Friday at upper elevations will form deep deposits in wind loaded terrain. This new snow sits on a sun crust or moist snow on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and an overall well settled snowpack. Cornices have formed on many alpine ridge lines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20-30 cm of new snow has formed new storm slabs which overlie sun crusts on solar aspects. This latest snow sits on well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Several other sun crust layers may be found within this storm snow on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 70-120 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-15 cm new snow has formed storm slabs that overlie a sun crusts on solar aspects. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of new snow is sitting on a sun crust on solar aspects. Cornices are large and prone to failure over the weekend caused by forecast sunny skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar or facet layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 110 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of a combination of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm.  These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by the warm and sunny weather over the weekend or by a large trigger such as a falling cornice.</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 new snow overlies sun crusts on solar aspects. Cornices are large and prone to failure over the weekend due to forecast sunny skies and rising freezing levels.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper/mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread. The primary concern looking ahead towards the weekend and early next week is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation.</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 new snow has been redistributed by by strong west and south winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow accumulating on Thursday and Friday has been redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations. The new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region the mid-February weak layer is about 40 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. No recent avalanche activity has been reported on these layers. The snowpack is well settled in southern parts of the region (e.g. Coquihalla and Manning Park).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow consists of sun crusts on solar aspects and surface hoar growth averaging 5 mm on sheltered, shady aspects extending into the alpine in some areas. A layer of small surface hoar (5 mm) buried in late February has been reported in isolated locations at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper/mid-pack you will likely find layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50-100 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down there is a crust/surface hoar layer from January. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack would likely be found in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect to find sun crusts on steep solar aspects. The old wind slabs created last weekend are faceting and becoming less reactive to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of new snow has formed storm slabs which overlie sun crusts on solar aspects. This latest snow sits on well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Several other sun crust layers may be found within this storm snow on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid to late February (down around 60-110 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm brought 20-30 cm of new snow by Friday morning. This new snow overlies well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Although several layers of sun crust can be found within this storm snow on solar aspects, recent snowpack tests have not been producing concerning results in the upper snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. A weak layer of facets also lingers at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-35cm of new snow has been redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind and sits on mostly unconsolidated snow from last week and possibly on a sun crust on south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well. Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Today is the first day in a long time that temperatures on the Spray went above 0C. The freezing level reached 2200m for a short period this afternoon. While not a huge input of heat, many solar aspects now have a surface crust. The alpine and treeline windslabs are improving with the moderate temperatures. The relative warmth is helping the various layers bond. Despite the rising temps, we did see a few cm of new snow today from flurries blowing through the area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45cm of new snow at upper elevations accumulating Thursday and Friday has begun to settle and bond and has been redistributed by southerly winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust or moist snow on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and an overall well settled snowpack. Thursday's precipitation fell as rain below 1200m where the surface snow is either wet or presents as a crust.Cornices have formed on many alpine ridge lines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20-30 cm of new snow has formed new storm slabs which overlie sun crusts on solar aspects. This latest snow sits on well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Several other sun crust layers may be found within this storm snow on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 70-120 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-15 cm new snow has formed storm slabs that overlie a sun crusts on solar aspects. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of recent storm snow is settling rapidly.  This new snow is sitting on a sun crust on solar aspects. Cornices are large and prone to failure over the weekend caused by forecast sunny skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar or facet layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 110 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of a combination of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by the warm and sunny weather throughout the weekend or by a large trigger such as a falling cornice.</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 storm is rapidly settling. This snow overlies decomposing previous storm snow, old wind slabs, and sun crust on solar aspects. Cornices are large and prone to failure over the weekend due to forecast sunny skies and rising freezing levels.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper/mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread. The primary concern looking ahead is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation. This is most likely to occur on steep south facing slopes.</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 new snow has been redistributed by by strong west and south winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations. The surface snow is reported to be moist on all aspects to 1800m and to mountain top on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow accumulating on Thursday and Friday has been redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations. The new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region the mid-February weak layer is about 40 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. No recent avalanche activity has been reported on these layers. The snowpack is well settled in southern parts of the region (e.g. Coquihalla and Manning Park).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow covers sun crust on solar aspects and surface hoar averaging 5 mm, but found up to 20 mm, on sheltered, shady aspects extending into the alpine in some areas. A layer of small surface hoar (5 mm) buried in late February has been reported in isolated locations at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper/mid-pack you will likely find layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50-100 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, around 150-200 cm down there is a crust/surface hoar layer from January. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack would likely be found in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect to find sun crusts on steep solar aspects. The old wind slabs created last weekend are faceting and becoming less reactive to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust/surface hoar layer buried mid-January is now roughly 80-140 cm below the surface, and still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers such as a falling cornice.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of new snow has formed storm slabs which overlie sun crusts on solar aspects. This latest snow sits on well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Several other sun crust layers may be found within this storm snow on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid to late February (down around 60-110 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm brought 20-30 cm of new snow by Friday morning. This new snow overlies well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Although several layers of sun crust can be found within this storm snow on solar aspects, recent snowpack tests have not been producing concerning results in the upper snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. A weak layer of facets also lingers at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday's 15-35cm of new snow has settled and been redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind and sits on mostly unconsolidated snow from last week and on a sun crust on south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well. Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind slabs of various densities are present in Alpine and Treeline areas on lee and cross-loaded features. Moist snow on steep solar aspects in the Alpine and on all aspects except polar below 2100m. The snowpack is settling.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45cm of new snow at upper elevations accumulating Thursday and Friday has settled, bonded and/or been redistributed by southerly winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust or moist snow on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and an overall well settled snowpack. Thursday's precipitation fell as rain below 1200m where the surface snow is either wet or presents as a crust. Cornices have formed on many alpine ridge lines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of snow from Thursday into Friday sits on sun crusts on solar aspects and well-settled storm snow on more northerly aspects. Several other sun crust layers may be found within the older storm snow on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 70-120 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-15 cm new snow has formed storm slabs that overlie a sun crusts on solar aspects. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of recent storm snow is settling rapidly with warm daytime temperatures. Expect moist snow on solar aspects and on all aspects up to 1400 m. This new snow is sitting on patchy surface hoar in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large and prone to failure with warm air temperatures and sunny skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar or facet layer buried mid-February is now 80 to 110 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of a combination of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by the warm and sunny weather throughout the weekend or by a large trigger, such as a falling cornice.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 cm of recent storm snow is settling rapidly with warm daytime temperatures.  Expect moist snow on solar aspects and on all aspects up to 1400 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large and prone to failure with warm air temperatures and sunny skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper/mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong.  The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread. The primary concern looking ahead is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation. This is most likely to occur on south-facing slopes.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent new snow has settled and been redistributed by west and south winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations. The surface snow is reported to be moist on all aspects to 1800m and to mountain top on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent new snow has been redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations. The new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on polar aspects, and wind affected snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40-50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in southern parts of the region (e.g. Coquihalla and Manning Park).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sustained southerly winds have redistributed the 20 cm of new snow and produced wind slabs in lee features. This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands. Expect to find a melt-freeze crust early mornings and moist snow with warming below around 1500 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, expect layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm below the surface from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sustained southerly winds have produced wind slabs in lee features.  This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and a surface hoar and sugary facet layer on sheltered, shady aspects.  Expect to find a melt-freeze crust or moist snow below around 1400 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of snow from Thursday into Friday sits on sun crusts on solar aspects and well-settled storm snow on more northerly aspects. Several other sun crust layers may be found within the older storm snow on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid to late February (down around 60-110 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm brought 20-30 cm of new snow by Friday morning. This new snow overlies well-settled storm snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Although several layers of sun crust can be found within this older storm snow on solar aspects, recent snowpack tests have not been producing concerning results in the upper snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday's new snow has settled and been redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind and sits on mostly unconsolidated snow from last week and on a sun crust on south-facing slopes. On sheltered northerly aspects it may also be sitting on a layer of surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well. Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Extensive wind slabs in the alpine that reach down to isolated areas of treeline and cross loaded features. Moist snow on steep solar aspects and on all aspects up to 2200m that are not shaded. Good skiing was still found on shady aspects in the trees.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow at upper elevations accumulating Thursday and Friday has settled, bonded and/or been redistributed by southerly winds. This new snow sits on a sun crust or moist snow on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow on northerly aspects, and an overall well settled snowpack. Thursday's precipitation fell as rain below 1200m where the surface snow is either wet or presents as a crust. Cornices have formed on many alpine ridge lines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of snow from Thursday into Friday sits on sun crusts on solar aspects and well-settled storm snow on more northerly aspects. Several other sun crust layers may be found within the older storm snow on solar aspects. The main story, however, has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes over the past three days. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 60-110 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-15 cm of new snow from last week sits on sun crusts on solar aspects. A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) are variably reactive, but both have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist (see the Avalanche Summary above for more information).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and daytime sun have produced moist snow on solar aspects into the alpine and moist snow on all aspects up to 1400 m.  On shady aspects at higher elevations, expect to find wind slabs in lee features and loose dry in sheltered features.  These snow surfaces are sitting on patchy surface hoar in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large and prone to failure with warm air temperatures and sunny skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the upper to mid snowpack, a surface hoar or facet layer buried mid-February is 80 to 110 cm below the surface on sheltered northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of a combination of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by the warm and sunny weather throughout the weekend or by a large trigger, such as a falling cornice.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and daytime sun have produced moist snow on solar aspects into the alpine and moist snow on all aspects up to around 1400 m.  On shady aspects at higher elevations, expect to find wind slabs in lee features and loose dry in sheltered features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large and prone to failure with warm air temperatures and sunny skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper/mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong.  The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread. The primary concern is the potential of these deeper persistent weak layers becoming active by rapid warming of the snowpack through rising freezing levels and intense solar radiation. This is most likely to occur on south-facing slopes.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent new snow has settled and been redistributed by west and south winds. The surface snow is reported to be moist on all aspects to 1800m and to mountain top on solar aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have produced cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent new snow has been redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations and has now been affected by above freezing temperatures except for high (above 1800m) northerly facing slopes. The new snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow and possibly small surface hoar on shady aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In northern parts of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40-50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in southern parts of the region i.e.Coquihalla and Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as they grow in size, as temperatures rise, and as the strong late-winter sun shines down upon them on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sustained southerly winds have redistributed the 20 cm of recent snow and produced wind slabs in lee features.  This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands.  Expect to find moist snow on solar aspects and on all aspects below 1300 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, expect layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm below the surface from mid- and late-February.  A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sustained southerly winds have produced wind slabs in lee features.  This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and a surface hoar and sugary facet layer on sheltered, shady aspects.  Expect to find moist snow on solar aspects and on all aspects below around 1000 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of snow from Thursday into Friday sits on sun crusts on solar aspects and well-settled storm snow on more northerly aspects. Several other sun crust layers may be found within the older storm snow on solar aspects. The main story, however, has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes over the past three days. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid to late February (down around 50-100 cm) are variably reactive, and have the potential to create surprisingly large avalanches if triggered. Initially, these interfaces were most reactive on solar aspects, where they present as buried sun crusts. However, persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects too, where surface hoar and/or facets exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The last snowfall was Thursday's storm, which brought 20-30 cm of new snow by Friday morning. Since then, isolated wind effect has created patchy wind slabs at higher elevations, but really, the main story has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This newer snow overlies well-settled older snow from regular snowfalls over the past couple of weeks. Although several layers of sun crust can be found within this older storm snow on solar aspects, recent snowpack tests have not been producing concerning results in the upper snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with forecast warming, a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow has settled and been redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind on upper shady aspects or has become moist or wet and/or refrozen (depending on the time of day) on slopes facing the sun. On sheltered northerly aspects it may be sitting on a layer of surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well. Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We are expecting Tuesday to be the warmest day of the week with freezing levels rising to 3000m.  The avalanche hazard will deteriorate with the daytime heating.  Avoid being near large sun exposed slopes.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind slabs are present in the alpine and isolated areas at tree line.  Expect a melt freeze crust first thing in the morning and moist snow by mid day on solar aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow in the past few days has undoubtedly become moist or wet on all aspects to mountain top with sunny skies and a high freezing level. Depending on the time of day, you may find the surface to be moist or be a frozen crust. The overall snowpack is well settled. Cornices formed or have grown more overhanging with the snowfall at the end of last week. They become touchier as they grow in size, as the temperature rises, and/or as they are impacted by the strong late-winter sun.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main story over the past several days has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On north and east facing slopes, cold dry snow can still be found and it sits on a well-settled snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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 main story over the past several days has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) have shown limited reactivity of late. Persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects, where surface hoar and/or facets exist (see the Avalanche Summary above for more information).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</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 air temperatures and daytime sun have produced moist snow on all aspects.  With dropping freezing levels, the moist snow will harden into a melt-freeze crust.  On shady aspects at high elevations, lingering wind slabs in lee features and loose dry in sheltered features may still exist.  These snow surfaces are sitting on patchy surface hoar in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the widespread mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a falling cornice.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and daytime sun have produced moist snow on all aspects.  With dropping freezing levels, the moist snow will harden into a melt-freeze crust.  On shady aspects at high elevations, lingering wind slabs in lee features and loose dry in sheltered features may still exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep.  The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">After a bout of light rain, light new snow amounts are expected to accumulate on the surface over Tuesday night and Wednesday. The new snow is accumulating above variable crust and moist snow that formed on the surface after days of warm temperatures and sunshine. The storm snow beneath this interface was previously redistributed by west and south winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">After a bout of light rain, light new snow amounts are expected to accumulate on the surface on Wednesday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow is falling on older storm snow that was redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations and affected by above freezing temperatures. Some high (above 1800m) north-facing slopes may have escaped the warming. The older storm snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow and possibly small surface hoar on shady aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried in mid-February is about 40-50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong easterly to southerly winds have redistributed recent snow and produced variable surfaces in alpine and treeline terrain, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands. Expect the snow surface to be a melt-freeze crust on solar aspects and on all aspects below 1400 m, up to 20 cm thick.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong south to easterly winds have produced wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and a surface hoar and sugary facet layer on sheltered, shady aspects. Expect the snow surface to be a melt-freeze crust on solar aspects and on all aspects below around 1000 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is unlikely, but may be possible to trigger very large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas or with large triggers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main story over the past several days has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On north and east facing slopes, cold dry snow can still be found and it sits on a well-settled snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The last snowfall was Thursday's storm, which brought 20-30 cm of new snow by Friday morning. Since then, isolated wind effect has created patchy wind slabs at higher elevations, but really, the main story has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes over the past several days. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects, freezing to form a crust overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light rain transitioning to wet flurries should bring 5-10 cm of new snow by Wednesday afternoon. This new snow will accumulate on a variable surface of crust and moist snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow has settled and been redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind on upper shady aspects or has become moist or wet and/or refrozen (depending on the time of day) on slopes facing the sun. On sheltered northerly aspects it may be sitting on a layer of surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers have consistently been reactive in snowpack tests, suggesting they could potentially remain reactive to human triggers as well. Deeper weak layers that formed in January and December have gained strength and gone dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another day of warm temps and strong solar input have helped settle the snowpack as a whole. Any steep, solar slope had moist snow by early afternoon and by mid afternoon some loose wet activity was noted. The polar aspects haven't felt the warm temps as much. The snow remains cold, and the layering structure that we're used to is still intact. At alpine &amp; treeline elevations, the windslabs still haven't had enough heat to bond together.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">After a period of light rain, new storm slabs are expected to form on the surface with up to 15 cm of new snow expected by Wednesday evening. The new snow will accumulate on a variable surface of wet snow and crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the surface, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. New cornices formed and old ones grew more overhanging with the snowfall at the end of last week. Cornices become more unstable as the temperature rises and as they are loaded by rain and new snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent sun and warm temperatures have resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects that is then freezing to form a crust overnight. North and east facing slopes still have cold dry snow that sits on a well-settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Recent sun and warm temperatures have resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects then freezing to form a crust overnight. Generally high elevation northerly aspects still have dry snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) have shown limited reactivity of late. Persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects, where surface hoar and/or facets exist. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</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 will fall on a melt-freeze crust produced with the recent warm air temperatures, sun, and rain.  On shady aspects at high elevations, new snow may fall on lingering wind slabs in lee features and loose dry snow in sheltered features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow will fall on a thick melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects from recent warm temperatures and rain, except for possibly high elevation north.  On shady aspects at high elevations, new snow will likely fall on lingering wind slabs in lee features and loose dry in sheltered features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep.  The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10 cm of new snow accumulated over Tuesday night and Wednesday. The new snow has buried a surface of variable crust and moist snow, the product of days of warm temperatures and sunshine. The storm snow beneath this interface was previously redistributed by west and south winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust that is roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. This layer has produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and some remotely triggered avalanches. Lots of the activity has been on buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. The snowpack is well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">After a period of light rain, about 5 cm of new snow accumulated on Wednesday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow has buried older storm snow that was redistributed by southerly winds at upper elevations and affected by above freezing temperatures. Some high (above 1800m) north-facing slopes may have escaped the warming. The older storm snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow and possibly small surface hoar on shady aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried in mid-February is about 40-50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming and rain have melted and refrozen the snow surface.  Expect the snow surface to be a melt-freeze crust on all aspects except for possibly high elevation north.  Strong easterly to southerly winds have redistributed any available soft snow and produced variable surfaces in alpine and treeline terrain, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features.  This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February.  A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warm temperatures and rain have produced a melt-freeze crust on most snow surfaces, except for possibly high elevation north.  New snow will fall onto this melt-freeze crust.  Strong easterly to southerly winds have redistributed any previously available soft snow and produced wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features.  This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and a surface hoar and sugary facet layer on sheltered, shady aspects.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and intense solar radiation over the past several days has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects that is then freezing to form a crust overnight. Cold dry snow can still be found on high elevation north and east facing slopes. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main story has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes over the past several days. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects and then freezing to form a crust overnight. High elevation northerly aspects still hold dry snow. Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of light rain and scattered flurries brought about 5 cm of new snow to the region on Wednesday. Where it arrived as snow, this precipitation has buried a variable surface of crust and moist snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow has settled and been redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind on upper shady aspects or has become moist or wet and/or refrozen (depending on the time of day) on slopes facing the sun. On sheltered north aspects it may be sitting on a layer of surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. They include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Freezing levels went very high today. One of the radio repeater sites recorded a temp of +4 by mid afternoon. Only high, true north aspects are escaping the heat and moist snow. Expect a widespread crust pretty much everywhere. It will be more pronounced at low elevations and/or solar aspects. The freeze thaw cycle is helping the upper snowpack consolidate and become stronger. The deeper layers are deep enough that they'll remain unchanged from the warming cycle. Cornices and wind lips have been collapsing lately as well.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">After a period of light rain, new snow has begun to accumulate on the surface. Up to 15 cm of new snow can be expected in the alpine and the depth and reactivity of new storm slabs will likely increase with elevation. The new snow is accumulating on a variable surface of wet snow and crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the surface, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. New cornices formed and old ones grew more overhanging with the snowfall at the end of last week. Cornices become more unstable as the temperature rises and as they are loaded by rain and new snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow now covers a crust on all but high, north and east facing slopes that still have cold dry snow above a well-settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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 light dusting of new snow now covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects which still hold loose, dry snow above a generally well-settled snow pack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) have shown limited reactivity of late. Persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects, where surface hoar and/or facets exist. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</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">Variable but overall small amounts of new snow fell at high elevations and rain fell at low elevations. This landed on a melt-freeze crust produced with the recent warm air temperatures, sun, and rain. The crust exists everywhere except for possibly on shady aspects at high elevations. Expect to find wet snow at low elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 15 to 25 mm of water equivalent fell in the region on Thursday. This would have fallen as snow at higher elevations (likely up to 25 cm of snow) and partially as rain at low elevations. This precipitation fell on a thick melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects from recent warm temperatures and rain, except for possibly higher elevations on north aspects.  The upper snowpack may still be wet at low elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep. The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10 cm of new snow accumulated over Tuesday night and Wednesday. In most areas the new snow buried a surface of variable crust and moist snow, the product of days of warm temperatures and sunshine. On high elevation north aspects, the new snow may overlie dry, wind redistributed snow from last week's storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust found roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. A week ago this layer was producing whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and even some remotely triggered avalanches. Much of this activity was attributed to buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. This buried weak layer is a limited but lingering concern in a snowpack that is otherwise well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of new snow accumulated on Wednesday. In most areas, the new snow has buried a breakable crust formed after days of warm temperatures and sunshine. On higher elevation north aspects in the north of the region, is overlies a mix of about 20 cm of either low density or wind-redistributed storm snow from last week. This older storm snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow and possibly small surface hoar on shady aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried in mid-February is about 40-50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as daily temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming and rain have melted and refrozen the snow surface at higher elevations.  Expect the snow surface to be wet or a melt-freeze crust on all aspects except for possibly high elevation north.  Strong easterly to southerly winds have redistributed any available soft snow and produced variable surfaces at high elevations, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features.  This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February.  A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces are found in the region.  In the east of the region, 5 to 10 cm of snow fell onto a melt-freeze crust from recent warm temperatures and rain.  In the west of the region, the melt-freeze crust is on the surface.  Wet snow may still exists at low elevations on all aspects.  High elevation north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features.  This overlies a surface hoar and sugary facet layer in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow now covers a crust on all but high elevation north and east facing slopes where cold, dry snow sits above a well settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main story has been the sun's effect on south and west facing slopes over the past several days. Daytime heating has resulted in moist or wet snow on sunny aspects and then freezing to form a crust overnight. High elevation northerly aspects still hold dry snow. Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of light rain and wet flurries brought about 7 cm of new snow to the region on Wednesday. Where it arrived as snow, this precipitation buried a moist crust on solar aspects and a new layer of surface hoar on sheltered north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow was redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. On north aspects these older slabs may be sitting on a layer of surface hoar about 25-40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exists 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Well the forecasted storm did arrive giving us close to 25cm at treeline and above.  The storm came in warm and as a result the snow has been quick to settle and so far appears to be bonding poorly to the underlying snow surface.  Storm slabs should be expected while the snow settles that will be reactive to human traffic in steeper areas.  Winds are forecast to be calm, but we expect there to be some isolated windslabs in alpine areas along ridgelines.  This new snow will freshen up the skiing but the key layer to watch will be the bond with the underlying snow surface.  Move into bigger terrain slowly and evaluate this layer before committing to terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mid-week storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 metres have seen daily change through melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, lingering wind slabs will remain a concern over the near term.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. New cornices formed and old ones grew more overhanging with the snowfall at the end of last week. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow (5-15 cm) covers a crust on all but high, north and east facing slopes that still have cold dry snow above a well-settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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 light dusting of new snow now covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects which still hold loose, dry snow above a generally well-settled snow pack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) have shown limited reactivity of late. Persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects, where surface hoar and/or facets exist. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</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">Variable but overall small amounts of new snow fell at high elevations and rain fell at low elevations. This landed on a melt-freeze crust produced with the recent warm air temperatures, sun, and rain. The crust exists everywhere except for possibly on shady aspects at high elevations. Expect to find wet snow at low elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 200-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 to 30 mm of water equivalent fell in the region on Thursday into Friday. This would have fallen as snow at higher elevations (up to 25 cm of snow) and partially as rain at low elevations. This precipitation fell on a thick melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects from recent warm temperatures and rain, except for possibly higher elevations on north aspects. The upper snowpack may still be wet at low elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep. The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new crust exists on the surface on solar aspects at all elevations while new surface hoar has begun to form on shaded and sheltered higher elevations. Below the surface, a wind-redistributed 5-20 cm of new snow from a mid-week storm overlies a crust on all but high elevation north aspects, where it has buried dry, wind redistributed snow from last week's storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms buried a weak layer composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust found roughly 50-100 cm below the surface. A week ago this layer was producing whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and even some remotely triggered avalanches. Much of this activity was attributed to buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. This buried weak layer is a limited but lingering concern in a snowpack that is otherwise well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong late-winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of new snow accumulated on Wednesday. In most areas, the new snow has buried a breakable crust formed after days of warm temperatures and sunshine. On higher elevation north aspects in the north of the region, is overlies a mix of about 20 cm of either low density or wind-redistributed storm snow from last week. This older storm snow sits on a sun crust on steep south-facing slopes, cold dry snow and possibly small surface hoar on shady aspects. Recent reports have shown prolonged slab reactivity in areas in the north of the region where this surface hoar exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried in mid-February is about 40-50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in some snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as daily temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming and rain have melted and refrozen the snow surface at higher elevations. Expect the snow surface to be wet or a melt-freeze crust on all aspects except for possibly high elevation north. Strong easterly to southerly winds have redistributed any available soft snow and produced variable surfaces at high elevations, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces are found in the region. In the east of the region, 5 to 10 cm of snow fell onto a melt-freeze crust from recent warm temperatures and rain. In the west of the region, the melt-freeze crust is on the surface. Wet snow may still exist at low elevations on all aspects. High elevation north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features. This overlies a surface hoar and sugary facet layer in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow now covers a crust on all but high elevation north and east facing slopes where cold, dry snow sits above a well settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting (5-15 cm) of new snow covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects, which still hold dry snow. Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of light rain and wet flurries brought about 7 cm of new snow to the region on Wednesday. Where it arrived as snow, this precipitation buried a moist crust on solar aspects and a new layer of surface hoar on sheltered north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow was redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. On north aspects these older slabs may be sitting on a layer of surface hoar about 25-40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exists 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Almost 30cm of snow fell yesterday. This storm came in slightly different than expected. Firstly, the snowpack didn't have a chance to cool and refreeze before the snow flew. As a result, the new snow is sitting on a moist layer at low elevations, or a firm crust ay higher elevations. Secondly, there was some wind at higher elevations. Windslabs are present on all easterly aspects in the alpine and treeline has a widespread stormslab. The valley bottom snowpack is nearly isothermal(bottomless) and doesn't gain strength until 1950m. Lots of settlements and cracking in the weak snow areas. So far none of the deeper layers have woken up.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mid-week storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 metres have been affected by daily melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, lingering wind slabs may remain reactive to human triggering over the near term.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. New cornices formed and old ones grew more overhanging with the snowfall at the end of last week. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow (5-15 cm) covers a crust on all but high, north and east facing slopes that still have cold dry snow above a well-settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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 light dusting of new snow (5-10 cm) now covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects which still hold loose, dry snow above a generally well-settled snow pack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A couple of layers buried in mid-late February (down around 40-100 cm) have shown limited reactivity of late. Persistent slabs have been triggered on shady aspects, where surface hoar and/or facets exist. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</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">Variable but overall small amounts of new snow fell at high elevations and rain fell at low elevations on Thursday. The sun came out on Friday and Saturday, creating a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, but still leaving dry snow to be found on north aspects above 1300m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's snow fell on a previous melt-freeze crust produced by warm air temperatures, sun, and rain. The crust exists everywhere except for possibly shady aspects at high elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall, or by humans traveling in thin-to-thick snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 to 30 mm of water equivalent fell in the region on Thursday into Friday. This would have fallen as snow at higher elevations (up to 25 cm of snow) and partially as rain at low elevations. This precipitation fell on a thick melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects from recent warm temperatures and rain, except for possibly higher elevations on north aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sunny conditions on Friday (and some locations on Saturday as well) created moist surface snow on sunny aspects, which froze to form a 2-5 cm thick crust overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep. The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new crust exists on the surface on solar aspects at all elevations. High elevation Polar aspects (those facing north and east) continue to hold dry snow, this is also where new surface hoar has been spotted on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of wind distributed snow fell last week which came to rest on the mid-March crust on all but high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February weak layer is composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust. This layer is found 50 to 100 cm below the surface. This interface previously produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and even some remotely triggered avalanches. Much of this activity was attributed to buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. This buried weak layer is a limited but lingering concern in a snowpack that is otherwise well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong early spring sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell Wednesday. In most areas the new snow buried a breakable crust formed by days of warm temperatures and sunshine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky buried weak layer down 20 to 40 cm below the surface. The layer is widespread in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. The layer is composed of surface hoar on polar aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects. This layer continues to produce human triggered avalanches on polar aspects on the Duffey and has not been reported in the south of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as daily temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming has melted and refrozen the snow surface at higher elevations. Expect the snow surface to be wet or a melt-freeze crust on all aspects except for possibly high elevation north facing. Strong easterly to southerly winds have redistributed any available soft snow and produced variable surfaces at high elevations, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces are found in the region. In the east of the region, 5 to 10 cm of snow fell late last week onto a melt-freeze crust from previous warm temperatures and rain. In the west of the region, the melt-freeze crust is on the surface. Wet snow may still exist at low elevations on all aspects. High elevation north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features. This overlies a surface hoar and sugary facet layer in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow (10-15 cm) now covers a crust on all but high elevation north and east facing slopes where cold, dry snow sits above a well settled snowpack. Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting (10-20 cm) of new snow covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects, which still hold dry snow. Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of light rain and wet flurries brought about 7 cm of new snow to the region on Wednesday. Where it arrived as snow, this precipitation buried a moist crust on solar aspects and a new layer of surface hoar on sheltered north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow that fell March 8th and 9th was redistributed by predominantly west and southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. On north aspects these older slabs may be sitting on a layer of surface hoar about 25-40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exists 50-100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 2cm of new snow fell overnight. This overlies a 2 to 5cm thick crust at all elevations and all aspects, except true north aspects. The snow beneath the curst is moist up to 2200m. The previously formed March 15th crust is buried on average 20cm and is also present on all slopes except high elevation northerly aspects. In the high Alpine forecasters suspect there is a thin wind slab in traditional lee and cross-loaded features due to recent moderate winds at upper elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mid-week storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 m have been affected by daily melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, lingering wind slabs may remain reactive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong.  Cornices loom over many ridge lines. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises, especially when they are receiving direct sun.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of snow (5-15 cm) covers a crust on all but high, north facing slopes that still have cold dry snow above a well-settled snowpack. Below 1900 m a surface crust exists on all aspects and will likely breakdown with daytime warming becoming moist in the afternoon.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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 light dusting of snow (5-10 cm) covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects which still hold loose, dry snow above a generally well-settled snow pack. Below 1700 m, a surface crust exists on all aspects and will likely breakdown with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</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 last precipitation fell late last week, delivering snow to higher elevations and rain down low. Since then, the sun came out on Friday and Saturday, creating a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, but still leaving dry snow to be found on north aspects above 1300m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's snow fell on a previous melt-freeze crust produced by warm air temperatures, sun, and rain. The crust exists everywhere except for possibly shady aspects at high elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall, or by humans traveling in thin-to-thick snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The last precipitation in this region was Thursday into Friday, with snow at higher elevations (up to 25 cm of snow) and rain at low elevations. This precipitation fell on a thick melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects from previous warm temperatures and rain, except for possibly higher elevations on north aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sunny conditions on Friday (and some locations on Saturday as well) created moist surface snow on sunny aspects, which froze to form a 2-5 cm thick crust overnight. Lingering wind slabs can still be found in the alpine, immediately behind ridge crests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep. The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new crust exists on the surface on solar aspects at all elevations. High elevation polar aspects (those facing north and east) continue to hold dry snow, this is also where new surface hoar has been spotted on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of wind distributed snow fell last week which came to rest on the mid-March crust on all but high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-February weak layer is composed of soft facets, surface hoar, and/or crust. This layer is found 50 to 100 cm below the surface. This interface previously produced whumpfing, sudden results in snowpack tests, and even some remotely triggered avalanches. Much of this activity was attributed to buried surface hoar on north aspects at upper treeline elevations. This buried weak layer is a limited but lingering concern in a snowpack that is otherwise well settled and strong beneath this interface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong early spring sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell March 14th. In most areas the new snow buried a breakable crust formed by days of warm temperatures and sunshine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky buried weak layer down 20 to 40 cm below the surface. The layer is widespread in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. The layer is composed of surface hoar on polar aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects. This layer continues to produce human triggered avalanches on polar aspects on the Duffey and has not been reported in the south of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as daily temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming has melted and refrozen the snow surface on sunny aspects. Expect the snow surface to be wet or a melt-freeze crust on all aspects except for north facing slopes above 1100-1300m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week, strong easterly to southerly winds redistributed any available soft snow and produced variable surfaces at high elevations, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. This overlies a sun crust on solar aspects and 5 to 20 mm surface hoar on sheltered, shady aspects at all elevation bands.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces are found in the region. In the east of the region, 5 to 10 cm of snow fell late last week onto a melt-freeze crust from previous warm temperatures and rain. In the west of the region, the melt-freeze crust is on the surface. Wet snow may still exist at low elevations on all aspects. High elevation north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features. This overlies a surface hoar and sugary facet layer in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of snow (5-20 cm) covers a crust on all but high elevation north facing slopes where cold, dry snow sits above a well settled snowpack. Below 1800 m a surface crust existing on all aspects and will likely breakdown with daytime warming becoming moist in the afternoon.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting (5-15 cm) of snow covers a crust on all but high elevation northerly aspects, which still hold dry snow. Below 1800 m, a supportive surface crusts exists on all aspects and will likely breakdown with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust has formed on all solar aspects. Fresh surface hoar has begun to form on polar aspects (those that face north and east) near ridgetop.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5 cm of snow is between the surface and another interface that mirrors the surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow that fell March 8th/9th was redistributed by west/southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. These wind slabs rest on a layer of surface surface hoar about 25 to 40 cm below the surface which has not been recently reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50 to 100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-15cm of new snow has fallen in the past 24hrs with very little wind affect noted. This snow is overlying a thin breakable temperature crust that formed on Friday (March 16th) on solar aspects and in lower elevations such as valley floors. On northern aspects the snow is still remaining dry with only isolated windslabs being found in alpine areas. If you are travelling on more solar aspects, ne sure to dig down and check the bond between this most recent snow and the underlying crusts. Two main crusts are being noted the March 16th crust (down 15-20cm) and the March 7th crust down (30-40cm).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 m have been affected by daily melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, stubborn old wind slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices loom over many ridge lines. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises, especially when they are receiving direct sun.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls (10-20 cm) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, the recent snow overlies older dry snow above a well-settled snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Recent light snowfalls (5-15 cm each) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, Sunday's snowfall buried a layer of surface hoar now found 10-15 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1700 m, only minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-12cm of new snow fell Sunday overnight into Monday. This new snow sits on a wide variety of old surfaces: a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, or surface hoar (up to 30mm in size) and/or dry snow on north aspects above 1500-1800m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall, or by humans traveling in thin-to-thick snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">14-24 cm of low density snow fell Sunday overnight into Monday. This new snow sits on a wide variety of old surfaces: a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, some old wind slabs in the alpine near ridge crests and predominantly dry snow or surface hoar (up to 20mm in size) on north aspects above 1500-1800m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep. The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new crust exists on the surface on solar aspects at all elevations. High elevation polar aspects (those facing north and east) continue to hold dry snow, this is also where new surface hoar has been spotted on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of wind distributed snow fell last week which came to rest on the mid-March crust on all but high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong early spring sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell March 14th. In most areas the new snow buried a breakable crust formed by days of warm temperatures and sunshine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky buried weak layer down 20 to 40 cm below the surface. The layer is widespread in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. The layer is composed of surface hoar on polar aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects. This layer continues to produce human triggered avalanches on polar aspects on the Duffey and has not been reported in the south of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as daily temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming has melted and refrozen the snow surface on sunny aspects. The new snow on Tuesday could be falling on wet snow down low, a melt-freeze crust on south-west aspects, wind slabs higher up, or even preserved powder on north facing slopes above 1100-1300m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week, strong easterly to southerly winds redistributed any available soft snow and produced variable surfaces at high elevations, including wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. On March 9th, 5 to 20 mm surface hoar or smaller facets (on sheltered, shady aspects) were buried by the last significant snowfall. This layer is still active in some areas (see Avalanche Summary above).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath this, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist below the surface from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces are found in the region. In the east of the region, 5 to 10 cm of snow fell late last week onto a melt-freeze crust from previous warm temperatures and rain. In the west of the region, the melt-freeze crust is on the surface. Wet snow may still exist at low elevations on all aspects. High elevation north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features. This overlies a surface hoar and sugary facet layer in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 25 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 25 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust has formed on all solar aspects. Fresh surface hoar has begun to form on polar aspects (those that face north and east) near ridgetop.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5 cm of snow is between the surface and another interface that mirrors the surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow that fell March 8th/9th was redistributed by west/southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. These wind slabs rest on a layer of surface surface hoar about 25 to 40 cm below the surface which has not been recently reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50 to 100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">New snow amounts are highly variable depending on drainage and elevation, with some areas receiving as much as 20cm of low density in the past 24 hours. This new snow sluffs easily in steep terrain in the Alpine on all aspects, and is running further on aspects that have a buried crust under the recent snow. Multiple buried sun or melt-freeze crusts now exist on most aspects with only sheltered northerly aspects escaping this condition. Variable wind slab conditions in upper Alpine on lee and cross-loaded features, but slab avalanche activity has tapered off in the past 48hrs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 m have been affected by daily melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, stubborn old wind slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices loom over many ridge lines. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises, especially when they are receiving direct sun.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls (10-20 cm) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, the recent snow has buried</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 30 cm deep. Mainly small loose dry releases have been observed on the shallowest of these layers (down about 10cm), while the deepest (down 30 cm) has been the failure plane in a few slab avalanches in adjacent regions. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Recent light snowfalls (5-15 cm each) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, Sunday's snowfall buried a layer of surface hoar now found 10-15 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1700 m, only minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 12 cm of new snow fell on Monday. This new may have a poor bond to a wide variety of old snow surfaces including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, or surface hoar (up to 30mm in size) and/or dry snow on north aspects above 1500-1800m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers have been dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall, or by humans traveling in thin-to-thick snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of low density snow fell Sunday overnight into Monday, combined with last weeks snow, this brings the total amount 30-40 cm. This new snow sits on a wide variety of old surfaces: a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, isolated old wind slab in the alpine near ridge crests and predominantly dry snow or surface hoar (up to 20mm in size) on north aspects above 1500-1800m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February exists in parts of the region around 50 to 80 cm deep. The lower snowpack is weak with a combination of crusts and facets near the bottom of the snowpack that are widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new crust exists on the surface on solar aspects at all elevations. High elevation polar aspects (those facing north and east) continue to hold dry snow, this is also where trophy surface hoar up to 15 mm in size has spotted on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of wind distributed snow fell last week which came to rest on the mid-March crust on all but high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong early spring sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell March 14th. In most areas the new snow buried a breakable crust formed by days of warm temperatures and sunshine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky buried weak layer down 20 to 40 cm below the surface. The layer is widespread in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. The layer is composed of surface hoar on polar aspects and a sun crust on solar aspects. This layer continues to produce human triggered avalanches on polar aspects on the Duffey and has not been reported in the south of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have created cornices on many alpine ridgelines. They become touchier as daily temperatures rise and with the strong late winter sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack consists of a wide variety of snow surfaces, including up to 20 cm of new snow at higher elevations, pockets of wind slab, a melt-freeze crust on south-west aspects an wet snow down low, On March 9th, surface hoar and/or smaller facets (on sheltered, shady aspects) were buried by the last significant snowfall down 10-25 cm. This layer was reactive to skier triggers in some areas on Monday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces exist including dry snow, surface hoar, crusts and moist snow at lower elevations. High elevation, north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features which sit on surface hoar and/ or a sugary facet layer found down 10-30 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 30 cm deep. The deepest of these surface hoar layers has been the failure plane in several recent slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 25 cm deep. The deepest of these surface hoar layers has been the failure plane in several recent slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust has formed on all solar aspects. Fresh surface hoar has begun to form on polar aspects (those that face north and east) near ridgetop.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5 cm of snow is between the surface and another interface that mirrors the surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow that fell March 8th/9th was redistributed by west/southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. These wind slabs rest on a layer of surface surface hoar about 25 to 40 cm below the surface which has not been recently reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50 to 100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Flurries today gave another 5-10cm of new snow. Like the other storms, this snow is settling very fast. The Mar15th crust is down 20-30 with an improving bond. The top 50cm of the snowpack varies greatly depending on aspect and elevation. Solar aspects and areas below 2100m have a series of crusts, while the polar aspects and high areas are much drier. In both cases, the snowpack is well settled and well bonded. Ski quality on the other hand is very different from area to area. Deeper down, the persistent layers have healed up with the Dec15th still apparent, but not reacting in tests. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 m have been affected by daily melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, stubborn old wind slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices loom over many ridge lines. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises, especially when they are receiving direct sun.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls (10-20 cm) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, the recent snow has buried</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 40 cm deep. Mainly small loose dry releases have been observed on the shallowest of these layers (down about 15cm), while the deepest (down 40 cm) has been the failure plane in a few slab avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Recent light snowfalls (5-15 cm each) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, Sunday's snowfall buried a layer of surface hoar now found 10-15 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1700 m, only minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast new snow will likely have a poor bond to the plethora of old snow surfaces including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, or surface hoar on north aspects above 1500 m. Isolated wind slabs just below ridgetop exist on northeasterly aspects and moist snow surfaces are found below 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow accumulations total 30-40 cm of low density fluff. Forecast snow for Thursday will add to these totals and likely have a poor bond to the underlying snow surfaces which consist of crusts, dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 1500 m. Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) a weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February may exist. This interface is dormant, but could wake up with a heavy load like a cornice fall, human triggers from a thin, shallow area on the slope or a rapid warm up. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging towards the bottom of the snowpack youll find a combination of crusts and facets that are reportedly widespread. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and rain Thursday will fall on a mix of moist grains, crusts, surface facets and surface hoar. The crust is widespread on solar aspects at all elevations. Both treeline and alpine elevations facing north and east have significant surface hoar and near surface facet development. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust which would be particularity problematic. The storms transition from warm to cold should be largely copacetic for our snowpack, but it is expected to generate touchy storm slabs at upper elevations for the short term.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of wind distributed snow fell last week which came to rest on the mid-March crust on all but high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable winds in the past month have built up cornices on many ridgelines. They will become touchier as daily temperatures rise and when they are subject to the strong early spring sun on clear days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow Thursday will fall on a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects. Low elevation polar aspects also have a crust, but treeline and alpine elevations feature a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky buried surface hoar interface down 20 to 40 cm below the surface. The layer is widespread in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. This layer has recently produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region as detailed above. This layer has not been reactive in the south of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 50 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack consists of a wide variety of snow surfaces including pockets of wind slab, a melt-freeze crust on south-west aspects an wet snow down low, On March 9th, surface hoar and/or smaller facets (on sheltered, shady aspects) were buried by the last significant snowfall down 10-25 cm. The forecast storm snow over the next 2 days will likely have a poor bond to these older snow surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snow surfaces exist including dry snow, surface hoar, crusts and moist snow at lower elevations. High elevation, north aspects may have lingering wind slabs in immediate lee features which sit on surface hoar and/ or a sugary facet layer found down 10-30 cm. The forecast storm snow over the next 2 days will likely have a poor bond to these older snow surfaces. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 30 cm deep. The deepest of these surface hoar layers has been the failure plane in several recent slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 25 cm deep. The deepest of these surface hoar layers has been the failure plane in several recent slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow Thursday will fall on a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects. Low elevation polar aspects also have a crust, but treeline and alpine elevations feature a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5 cm of snow is between the surface and another interface that mirrors the surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow that fell March 8th/9th was redistributed by west/southwest wind, forming wind slabs at high elevations. These wind slabs rest on a layer of surface surface hoar about 25 to 40 cm below the surface which has not been recently reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mix of weak layers exist 50 to 100 cm below the surface, including small surface hoar on shady aspects and a crust on solar aspects. These layers are expected to have gained strength from recent cycles of warming and cooling. Like other deeper weak layers that formed in January and December, they are considered dormant at this time. These deeper layers include several surface hoar and facet layers 1 to 2 m below the surface and a crust/ facet interface near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Convective flurries over the past 24hrs have given us an additional 5cm of snow that has fallen with very little wind.  Over the past few days 20-25cm of new snow has fallen that has had generally very light winds.  Isolated windslabs are being encountered in Alpine areas up to 40cm thick.  We are also still having concerns regarding thin weak areas where the basal areas may still be reactive.  Despite it being spring, keep a keen eye on snowpack depths as you travel.  Heat plays a large role at this time of year, solar aspects and quality of overnight freeze are critical things to be thinking of so pay attention to these concepts as you travel.&nbsp; The best skiing is being found on polar aspects where there are no crusts.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and rain Thursday will fall on a mix of moist grains, crusts and potentially surface hoar/facets on high elevation polar (north and east) aspects.  The storms transition from warm to cold should be largely copacetic for our snowpack, but it does have potential to generate touchy storm slabs at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought up to 15 cm of new snow to the alpine while rain saturated the upper snowpack at treeline and below. Surface conditions on solar aspects and below about 1500 m have been affected by daily melt-freeze cycles. In the limited alpine terrain where the recent precipitation fell as snow, stubborn old wind slabs may remain sensitive to human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices loom over many ridge lines. Cornices become more unstable during the day as the temperature rises, especially when they are receiving direct sun.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls (10-20 cm) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, the recent snow has buried</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 40 cm deep. Mainly small loose dry releases have been observed on the shallowest of these layers (down about 15cm), while the deepest (down 40 cm) has been the failure plane in a few slab avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Recent light snowfalls (5-15 cm each) have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, Sunday's snowfall buried a layer of surface hoar now found 10-15 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1700 m, only minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow will likely have a poor bond to the plethora of old snow surfaces including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m and moist snow surfaces below 1600 m. Isolated wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 5 cm of new snow adds to the 30 cm from earlier this week. Forecast snow for Friday will add to these totals and likely have a poor bond to the underlying snow surfaces which consist of crusts, dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 1500 m. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B"><br /></span><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) a weak layer of surface hoar buried mid-February may exist. This interface is dormant, but could wake up with a heavy load like a cornice fall, human triggers from a thin, shallow area on the slope or a rapid warm up. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging towards the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that are reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday and Friday's storm snow is sitting on a mix of moist grains, crusts, surface facets and surface hoar. The crust is widespread on solar aspects at all elevations. Both treeline and alpine elevations facing north and east have significant surface hoar and near surface facet development. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust which would be particularity problematic. The storms transition from warm to cold should be good for our snowpack in the long term, but the storm is expected to continue to generate touchy storm slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of wind distributed snow fell last week which came to rest on the mid-March crust on all but high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</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">Thursday and Friday's storm snow is sitting on a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects. Low elevation polar aspects also have a crust, but treeline and alpine elevations feature a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky buried surface hoar interface down 20 to 50 cm below the surface. The layer is widespread in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. This layer has recently produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region as detailed above. This layer has not been reactive in the south of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 60 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is well settled in the south of the region around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow overlies a variety of buried snow surfaces including pockets of wind slab, a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and wet snow down low. On March 9th, surface hoar and/or facets (on sheltered, shady aspects) were buried by the last significant snowfall down 10-25 cm. The new snow will likely have a poor bond to the old snow surfaces.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"><br /></span><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of new snow with another 10-15 cm in the forecast is expected overnight. The new snow will likely have a poor bond to the underlying snow surface which consists of surface hoar on northerly aspects in higher elevation bands and firm melt-freeze crusts. <br />In the mid-pack, a surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer still has the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 30 cm deep. The deepest of these surface hoar layers has been the failure plane in several recent slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfalls have been followed by warm daytime temperatures and glimpses of sun, setting up a couple of thin storm snow layers over temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. On shaded aspects at higher elevations, these snowfalls have buried and preserved a couple of surface hoar layers now found up to 25 cm deep. The deepest of these surface hoar layers has been the failure plane in several recent slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, minimal accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. This crust will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist in the afternoon. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow has fallen as of Thursday afternoon with moderate southeast wind. This snow sits on a mixture of weak grains including a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects and low elevation polar aspects. On polar aspects at and above treeline the new storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. The mid March interface is down 10 to 15 cm and it mirrors the old surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early March interface is 25 to 40 cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into consecutive warm nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Convective flurries continued overnight and throughout the day giving us another 5cm of snow.  This is the overall theme at this time of year, convective flurries giving us 5-10cm every few days.  Crusts dominate the solar aspects and make the skiing challenging while northern aspects are holding dry snow right down to the valley floor.  Pockets of windslabs should be expected along ridgelines in the alpine as well as cornices are large and looming overhead of many slopes right now.  Keep an eye on solar radiation.  If the sun comes out, solar aspects will det'r quickly!  Start earlier than normal</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 mm of rain transitioning to up to 20 cm of snow has fallen as of Thursday afternoon with wind out of the southeast.&nbsp; This snow sits on a mixture of weak grains including a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects and low elevation polar aspects. On polar aspects at and above treeline the new storm snow may be burying facets and surface hoar.&nbsp; The storms transition from warm to cold should be great for our snowpack in the long term, but fresh touchy storm slabs are expected to continue to build Thursday night and Friday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong to extreme southerly winds brought a wind-affected 10-20 cm of new snow to the region over Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 30 and 50 cm below the surface. Some potential exists for shallower storm slab avalanches to 'step down' to these deeper layers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 5-15 cm of new snow to the region over Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below about 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow will initially have a poor bond to the plethora of old snow surfaces including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects, surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m and moist snow surfaces below 1600 m. Wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of new snow, accompanied by strong easterly winds in the beginning of the storm and now switching to the southwest are forming wind slabs on a variety of aspects. Forecast snow for Saturday will add to these totals and may initially have a poor bond to the underlying old snow surfaces which consist of crusts up to 2100 m and dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 2100 m. Snowpack testing on the March 15th surface hoar interface (down 20-40 cm on sheltered North aspects) has shown no significant results in the Barnes area. The mid-pack is is well consolidated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) a surface hoar buried mid-February may exist. This interface is dormant. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging towards the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that are reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday and Friday's storm snow delivered 10 to 40 cm of snow accompanied by strong to extreme wind out of the southwest, south and southeast. Storm slabs on immediate lee features at ridgeline may be up to 70 cm in depth. These slabs rest on a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and Alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust which would be particularity problematic. The storms transition from warm to cold should be good for our snowpack in the long term, but this weekend touchy storm slabs are likely widespread.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust from mid-March is now down 15 to 60 cm below the surface. This crust is prevalent everywhere with the exception of high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">60 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</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">Thursday and Friday's storm snow (10- 20 cm) is sitting on a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects. Low elevation polar aspects also have a crust, but treeline and alpine elevations feature a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a tricky surface hoar interface buried early March is down 30 to 70 cm below the surface. The layer exists in the alpine and at treeline, but it is not everywhere. This layer has recently produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region as detailed above. This layer has not been reactive in the south of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 50 to 80 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, a dusting of new snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow overlies a plethora of old snow surfaces including the March 9th and 19th surface hoar existing on high northerly aspects and a melt-freeze crust basically on all aspects at treeline and below. The new storm snow will initially have a poor bond to these buried interfaces. Strong easterly winds have redistributed the new snow onto leeward aspects forming thicker and likely more reactive slabs. Forecast weekend winds from the southwest will likely build new wind slabs on easterly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow brings the recent storm snow up to 35 cm in some locations. Strong easterly winds have redistributed the new snow onto leeward aspects forming thicker slabs. Forecast winds from the southwest will likely build new wind slabs on easterly aspects. The new snow will likely have a poor bond initially to the underlying snow surfaces which consist of surface hoar (buried March 9th and 19th) on northerly aspects in higher elevation bands and firm melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid-pack, a surface hoar and crust layer from January is buried around 80 to 140 cm in the southwest of the region. This layer is currently unreactive, however, may have the potential to be triggered from a thin snowpack spot, or with a large trigger like a cornice fall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sugary facets exist at the bottom of the snowpack in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 5-15 cm of new snow to the region over Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 30 and 50 cm below the surface. The deepest of these surface hoar layers was the failure plane in several slab avalanches this week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 5-15 cm of new snow to the region over Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface. The deepest of these surface hoar layers was the failure plane in several slab avalanches earlier this week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below about 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 - 15 cm of new snow has fallen with moderate southeast wind. This snow sits on a mixture of weak grains including a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above treeline the new storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. The mid March interface is down 20 to 30 cm and it resembles the old surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early March interface is 35 to 50 cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Flurries are still adding dribs &amp; drabs of new snow.  Winds picked up last night and today which created new windslabs on N-S aspects. These are mostly in the alpine, but may extend to exposed treeline areas. The deeper crusts are still on our radar as the bond appears to be variable. Dig and assess the crust/surface snow interface if traveling on solar aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 45 mm of precipitation fell Thursday into early Friday morning. Rain transitioned to snow above 1000 m Thursday morning which produced about 25 cm of snow with light to moderate east/southeast wind. The warm to cold nature of the storm has allowed the new snow to bond well to the old surface up to treeline, but little is currently known about the alpine. The alpine likely saw very little if any rain and more snow/wind. Up high the new snow is thought to be sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below any recent snow accumulations, the overall snowpack is well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong to extreme southerly winds brought a wind-affected 15-25 cm of new snow since Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 30 and 50 cm below the surface. Some potential exists for shallower slab avalanches to 'step down' to these deeper layers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 10-20 cm of new snow to the region since Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below about 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of recent storm snow will initially have a poor bond to the plethora of old snow surfaces including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m, surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m. Wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of new snow, accompanied by strong easterly winds in the beginning of the storm and now switching to the southwest are forming wind slabs on a variety of aspects. Forecast snow for Saturday will add to these totals and may initially have a poor bond to the underlying old snow surfaces which consist of crusts up to 2100 m and dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 2100 m. Snowpack testing on the March 15th surface hoar interface (down 20-40 cm on sheltered North aspects) has shown no significant results in the Barnes area. The mid-pack is is well consolidated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) a surface hoar buried mid-February may exist. This interface is dormant. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging towards the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that are reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday and Friday's storm snow delivered 20 to 50 cm of snow accompanied by strong to extreme wind out of the southwest, south and southeast. Storm slabs on immediate lee features at ridgeline may be up to 60 cm in depth. These slabs rest on a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust which would be particularity problematic. The storms transition from warm to cold should be good for our snowpack in the long term.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust from mid-March is now down 40 to 60 cm below the surface. This crust is prevalent everywhere with the exception of high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Thursday and Friday's storm snow (10- 20 cm) is sitting on a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects. Low elevation polar aspects also have a crust, but treeline and alpine elevations feature a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar interface buried early March that is about 30 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has recently produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region but has not been reactive in the south of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 40 to 80 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the recent storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow overlies a plethora of old snow surfaces including the March 9th and 19th surface hoar existing on high northerly aspects and a melt-freeze crust basically on all aspects at treeline and below. The new storm snow will initially have a poor bond to these buried interfaces and lower elevation snow will likely become moist on Sunday. Strong easterly winds have redistributed the new snow onto leeward aspects forming thicker and likely more reactive slabs. Forecast weekend winds from the southwest will likely build new wind slabs on easterly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north. These buried layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of new storm snow overlies a plethora of old snow surfaces including the March 9th and 19th surface hoar existing on high northerly aspects and a melt-freeze crust basically on all aspects at treeline and below. The new storm snow will initially have a poor bond to these buried interfaces. Strong easterly winds have redistributed the new snow onto leeward aspects forming thicker and likely more reactive slabs. Forecast weekend winds from the southwest will likely build new wind slabs on easterly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-18cm of new snow fell on Thursday into Friday. Winds were moderate to strong from the south / east, transporting snow in the alpine and upper tree line and creating reactive wind slabs on immediate lee (down wind) features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found at approximately 30 and 50 cm below the surface. The deepest of these surface hoar layers was the failure plane in several slab avalanches this week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 5-15 cm of new snow to the region since Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface. The deepest of these surface hoar layers was the failure plane in several slab avalanches earlier this week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below about 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 - 50 cm of new snow has fallen with moderate to strong southeast to southwest wind. This snow sits on a mixture of weak grains including a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above treeline the new storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. The mid March interface is down 20 to 40 cm and it resembles the old surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early March interface is 40 to 60 cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10cm new snow fell across the region overnight with very little wind affect.  This new snow now blankets the previous windslabs that formed earlier in the week.  These windslabs are easy to find in alpine terrain and are 20-40cm thick.  What natural avalanche activity we did see on Friday showed these windslabs failing mainly on N and E aspects in steeper terrain or in unsupported features.  Field test were showing an easy to moderate sheer at the interface of the windslabs with the underlying snow.  Be heads up in steeper areas  and choose supported terrain. Light snow was starting as we left.  The best skiing will be on N aspects due to crusts on solar aspects. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 45 mm of precipitation has fallen since Thursday. Rain transitioned to snow above 1000 m Thursday morning which produced about 25 cm of snow with light to moderate east/southeast wind. The warm to cold nature of the storm has allowed the new snow to bond well to the old surface up to treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The alpine likely saw very little if any rain and more snow/wind. Up high the new snow is likely sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the recent storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong to extreme southerly winds brought a wind-affected 15-25 cm of new snow since Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 30 and 50 cm below the surface. Some potential exists for shallower slab avalanches to 'step down' to these deeper layers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 10-20 cm of new snow to the region since Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below about 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow will initially have a poor bond to the plethora of old snow surfaces including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m, surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m. Wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of new snow fell over the region over the past few days. This new snow was initially redistributed by strong easterly winds in the beginning of the storm before winds switched to the southwest. As a result, and with southwest winds forecast to increase again, wind slabs are now likely to be found on a variety of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent snow will take some time to form a reliable bond to the old snow surface, which consist of crusts up to 2100 metres and dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 2100 m. Recent snowpack testing on the March 15th surface hoar interface (down 20-40 cm on sheltered north aspects) has shown no significant results in the Barnes area. Below this interface the mid-pack is is well consolidated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) a surface hoar buried in mid-February may exist. This interface is considered dormant. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging towards the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that are reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday and Friday's storm snow delivered 20 to 50 cm of snow accompanied by strong to extreme wind out of the southwest, south and southeast. Storm slabs on immediate lee features at ridgeline may be up to 60 cm in depth. These slabs rest on a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust which would be particularity problematic. The storms transition from warm to cold should be good for our snowpack in the long term.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust from mid-March is now down 40 to 60 cm below the surface. This crust is prevalent everywhere with the exception of high elevation north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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 past week of stormy weather brought 30-60 cm of new snow to the region. Strong easterly winds initially redistributed the new snow onto leeward aspects, forming thick wind slabs. More recent and forecast strong southwest winds are likely to continue building wind slabs on north through east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the wind effect, the new snow overlies a plethora of old snow surfaces, including a layer of surface hoar existing on high shaded aspects as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north. These buried layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of new storm snow overlies a plethora of old snow surfaces including the March 9th and 19th surface hoar existing on high northerly aspects and a melt-freeze crust basically on all aspects at treeline and below. The new storm snow will initially have a poor bond to these buried interfaces. Strong easterly winds have redistributed the new snow onto leeward aspects forming thicker and likely more reactive slabs. Forecast weekend winds from the southwest will likely build new wind slabs on easterly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-18cm of new snow fell on Thursday into Friday. Winds were moderate to strong from the south / east, transporting snow in the alpine and upper tree line, creating reactive wind slabs on immediate lee (down wind) features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported between these storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 30 and 50 cm below the surface. The deepest of these surface hoar layers was the failure plane in several slab avalanches last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowfall coupled with strong southerly winds brought a wind-affected 15-30 cm of new snow to the region since Thursday night. The new snow has buried a couple of recent layers of storm snow or wind slabs up high, or sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below about 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 - 40 cm of new snow has fallen with moderate to strong southeast to southwest wind. This snow sits on a mixture of weak grains including a slippery crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above treeline the new storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. The mid March interface is down 30 to 60 cm and it resembles the old surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early March interface is 50 to 80 cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-20cm of snow has fallen over the past 48hrs with NW winds at higher elevations creating new thin windslabs as well as burying the previous ones.  These windslabs are easy to find in alpine terrain and are 20-40cm thick. What natural avalanche activity we did see on before the weekend showed these windslabs failing mainly on N and E aspects in steeper terrain or in unsupported features. Field test were showing an easy to moderate sheer at the interface of the windslabs with the underlying snow. Be heads up in steeper areas and choose supported terrain.  The best skiing will be on N aspects due to crusts on solar aspects. Despite cooler temperatures, when the sun does come out it has lots of punch so be thinking about the affects of solar radiation later in the day. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 25-35 cm of snow has fallen on the North Shore mountains since Thursday with light to moderate east/southeast wind. The warm to cold nature of the storm has allowed this new snow to bond well to the old surface up to treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish saw more snow (40-60 cm) and wind. In these areas the new snow is likely sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the recent storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow fall amounts into Monday range from 7-11 cm. Winds have been moderate from the east through southwest, creating fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs from late last week (thanks to south / east winds) remained reactive throughout the weekend on immediate lee features and steep roll-overs in exposed locations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of surface hoar (buried March 18th) have been reported between old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 30-45 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">At tree line and above, most of the region's upper snowpack consists of a wind-affected 10-20 cm layer of snow. This sits on previous layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar layers have been reported between these old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper quickly with elevation and below about 1900 m, reduced accumulations sit on a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been showing a poor bond to the old snow surfaces it has buried, including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m as well as surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m. Wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of new snow fell over the region over the past few days. This new snow was initially redistributed by strong easterly winds before winds switched to the southwest. As a result, wind slabs are now likely to be found on a variety of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind effect, this recent snow will take some time to form a reliable bond to the old snow surface, which consist of crusts up to 2100 metres and dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 2100 m. Below this layer the mid-pack is is well consolidated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) the surface hoar buried in mid-February is now considered dormant. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that is reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 5-10 cm of storm snow with strong southerly wind Sunday night adds to last week's storm which delivered 20 to 50 cm of snow accompanied by strong to extreme wind out of the southwest, south and southeast. This storm snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently, but it does continue to produce resistant planar results in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Another 10-15 cm of snow Sunday night adds to last week's storm snow bringing totals to 20-40 cm of recent storm snow that sits on a crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in the north of the region, polar aspects (those that face north and east) are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar interface buried early March that is about 30-50 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region in the past week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 60 to 80 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the recent storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ongoing snowfall is building new storm slabs on the surface under the influence of strong southwest winds at high elevations. The new snow is adding to existing storm totals of 40-60 cm from the past week. Beneath the surface wind effect, the new snow overlies a plethora of old snow surfaces, including a layer of surface hoar existing on high shaded aspects as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north. These buried layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of storm snow now overlies a range of old snow surfaces, including two layers of surface hoar existing on shaded aspects at high elevations as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below. This storm snow has been showing a poor bond to the shallowest of these buried weak layers, down about 40cm. Recent strong winds have redistributed the new snow into thicker and likely more reactive wind slabs on a range of aspects wind-exposed terrain. Southwest winds have been the most recent.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow fall amounts into Monday range from 5-11 cm. Winds have been moderate south/east, creating fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) slopes.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs from late last week (thanks to south / east winds) remained reactive throughout the weekend on immediate lee features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of surface hoar (buried March 18th) have been reported between old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 25-40 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow fall amounts into Monday vary widely (from 3-22cm) throughout the region, with 7-12cm being the average. Winds, however, have been moderate to strong from the south/west, creating fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week saw a wind-affected 15-30 cm of new snow, which sits on a variety of snow surfaces: older storm snow or wind slabs up high, or sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts have been tapering with elevation and below about 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 - 40 cm of recent storm sits on a mixture of weak grains including a crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above treeline the storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. The mid March interface is down 30 to 60 cm and it resembles the old surface; crust on solar, surface hoar on high elevation north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early March interface is 50 to 80 cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As much as 20cm of recent snow has fallen together with strong to extreme westerly winds. Field observations were limited today but it is obvious that wind slabs are widespread in the Alpine. The unknown at the moment is the distribution and extent of wind slabs at Treeline. It is expected that lee and cross-loaded features at ridge-crest will have wind slab formations, so be cautious with these terrain features. Cornices seem to have grown in the past 24 hours. On solar aspects several buried crusts persist and seem to be reactive for slab avalanches in steep and unsupported terrain. Despite cooler temperatures, when the sun does come out it has lots of punch so be thinking about the effects of solar radiation later in the day. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The North Shore mountains received 25-30 cm overnight on Sunday and another 10-15 cm throughout the day on Monday, bringing storm snow totals to around 60-80 cm since last Thursday which is generally bonded well to the old surface up to treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish have likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow and more wind. In these areas the storm snow is likely sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New amounts of (heavy) snow varied widely on Tuesday, ranging from 7 to 36 cm (with an average of about 17cm). Winds have been moderate to strong southerly with gusts to 70 Km/hr reported. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs from late last week (thanks to south / east winds) remained reactive throughout the weekend on immediate lee features and steep roll-overs in exposed locations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of surface hoar (buried March 18th) have been reported between old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 50-70 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">Some areas in the north of the region received up to 15 cm of new snow on Tuesday (most areas had only a trace). Winds were gusting strong from the south / west, building fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At tree line and above, most of the region's upper snowpack consists of a wind-affected 10-20 cm layer of snow. This sits on previous layers of storm snow that are separated by temperature and sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar layers have been reported between these old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 20 and 40 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper quickly with elevation and below about 1900 m, reduced accumulations sit on a supportive crust on all aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February (down 40 -100 cm deep) as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been showing a poor bond to the old snow surfaces it has buried, including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m as well as surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m. Wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. Natural cornice falls triggering large avalanches has been a trend for the past few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of new snow fell over the region on the weekend. This new snow was initially redistributed by strong easterly winds before winds switched to the southwest. As a result, a mix of old and new wind slabs can now be found on a variety of aspects and at lower elevations as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind effect, this recent snow has buried and old snow surface that consists of crusts up to 2100 metres and dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 2100 m. Below this layer the mid-pack is is well consolidated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) the surface hoar buried in mid-February is now considered dormant. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that is reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 5-10 cm of storm snow with strong southerly wind Sunday night adds to last week's storm which delivered 20 to 50 cm of snow accompanied by strong to extreme wind out of the southwest, south and southeast. This storm snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Another 5-10 cm of snow Sunday night adds to last week's storm snow bringing totals to 20-40 cm of recent storm snow that sits on a crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in the north of the region, north and east aspects are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar layer buried early March that is about 30-50 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region in the past week. Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 60 to 80 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the recent storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stormy weather brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region over the past week. These accumulations taper quickly toward lower elevations as well as moving inland from the coast. At high elevations, strong southwest winds have been promoting the formation of storm and wind slabs. Beneath the wind effect, the storm snow overlies old snow surfaces that include a layer of surface hoar existing on high shaded aspects as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below. The bond of our storm snow to this layer remains a concern, with the consequences of shallower storm slabs or wind slabs 'stepping down' to this deeply buried interface currently being very high.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north. These buried layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of storm snow now overlies a range of old snow surfaces, including two layers of surface hoar existing on shaded aspects at high elevations as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below. This storm snow has been showing a poor bond to the shallowest of these buried weak layers, down about 40cm. Recent strong winds have redistributed the new snow into thicker and likely more reactive wind slabs on a range of aspects wind-exposed terrain. Southwest winds have been the most recent.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New amounts of (heavy) snow varied widely on Tuesday, ranging from 18 to 38 cm. Winds have been moderate to strong from the south / east.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs from late last week (thanks to south / east winds) remained reactive throughout the weekend on immediate lee features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of surface hoar (buried March 18th) have been reported between old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 45-70 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1800 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There were some incredible amounts of (heavy) new snow on Tuesday, ranging from 18 to 46 cm. Winds have been moderate to strong from the south / west. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week saw a wind-affected 15-30 cm of new snow, which sits on a variety of snow surfaces: older storm snow or wind slabs up high, or sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects. Surface hoar layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and might now be found at approximately 50 and 80 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators. They are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30-40 cm of recent snow sits on a crust at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above treeline the storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. A layer buried mid March is down 30 to 60cm is crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on high elevation north. A layer buried early March is 50 to 80cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those just described.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind and flurries continue to join forces and create new windslabs in the alpine and exposed treeline terrain. These slabs have been building for the past few days and are getting thicker, more widespread and more sensitive. Natural activity indicates the slabs are up to 70cm thick in wind prone areas. The slabs rest on a variety of surfaces, most of which are aspect or elevation dependant. The march 15 crust is the most concerning buried layer. It is widespread on any solar aspect. The other problematic buried layers are the interfaces between the windslabs themselves. Typically these &quot;heal&quot; up quickly, but we're finding that once one &quot;heals&quot; and goes away, it is replaced with another shallower one.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region has received 60-80cm of new snow since last Thursday. This new snow is generally bonded well to the old surface up to treeline elevations. Alpine areas around Squamish have likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow and more wind. In these areas the storm snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts from Tuesday's storm vary widely across the region and range from about 30- 60 cm.  This new snow has fallen with moderate to strong southerly winds switching to northerly near the end of the storm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts taper with elevation and below 1900 m, reduced accumulations have buried a supportive crust on all aspects.  At higher elevations the new snow lies on a crust on solar aspects while on northerly aspects old wind slabs and surface hoar have been buried.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper pockets of surface hoar (buried March 18th) have been reported between old storm snow layers on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 60-80 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </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">At tree line and above, most of the region's upper snowpack consists of 20-40 cm of recent storm snow. Areas just east of Kootenay Lake however have seen closer to 70 cm of storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This snow sits on old wind slabs on northerly aspects, and on crusts on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m. Surface hoar layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely now be found at approximately 50 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been gradually forming a more reliable bond with the old snow surfaces it buried, including a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m as well as surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m. Wind slabs are building on most aspects due to the changing winds and overhanging cornices exist along ridgelines. Natural cornice falls triggering large avalanches has been a trend for the past few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150-300 cm. These layers are currently considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of new snow fell in the region over last weekend. This new snow was initially redistributed by strong easterly winds before winds switched to the southwest. As a result, a mix of old and new wind slabs can now be found on a variety of aspects and at lower elevations as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind effect, the recent snow has buried an old snow surface that consists of crusts up to 2100 metres and dry snow or surface hoar on north aspects above 2100 m. Below this layer the mid-pack is is well consolidated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (50-80 cm down) the surface hoar buried in mid-February is now considered dormant. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the bottom of the snowpack you'll find a combination of crusts and facets that is reportedly widespread.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 5-10 cm of storm snow with strong southerly wind Sunday night adds to last week's storm which delivered 20 to 50 cm of snow accompanied by strong to extreme wind out of the southwest, south and southeast. This storm snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Last weekend's storm snow totals are 20-40 cm of recent storm snow that sits on a crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and or facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in the north of the region, north and east aspects are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar layer buried early March that is about 40-60 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region in the past week. Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 60 to 80 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the recent storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stormy weather brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region over the past week. These accumulations taper quickly at lower elevations as well as moving inland from the coast. Strong southwest to northwest winds have been redistributing the new snow into wind slabs at high elevations. Beneath the wind effect, the storm snow overlies old surfaces that include a layer of surface hoar on high shaded aspects as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another lingering layer of surface hoar can be found just below the first on shaded aspects at lower elevations. With the overlying storm snow now settled into a stiffer slab, this layer became touchy in the Terrace area on Tuesday, producing numerous large, remotely-triggered avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north. These buried layers are currently dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of storm snow from last week has been settling into a reactive slab over a range of old snow surfaces, including two layers of surface hoar existing on shaded aspects at high elevations as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below. This storm snow has been showing a poor bond to the shallowest of these buried weak layers, down about 40cm. Recent strong winds have redistributed the new snow into thicker and likely more reactive wind slabs on a range of aspects wind-exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the mid-pack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/ crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets exist in colder and drier parts of the region, such as in the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts following Tuesday's storm typically range from 40 to 50 cm and up to 70 cm in some areas. This snow has fallen with moderate to strong winds from the south / east switching to west and northwest. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow sits a variety of old surfaces; crust on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900m, and surface hoar on high north and east aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeper crust/surface interface buried March 18th is now down about 60 to 80 cm and is similar to the old surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are generally considered dormant, but could wake up with a surface avalanche stepping down, large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 60 to 100 cm of recent storm snow has fallen with moderate to strong winds from the south / west. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on a variety of old snow surfaces: sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects, and older storm snow or wind slabs up high. Surface hoar layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators but are generally considered dormant. Large triggers such as a surface avalanche stepping down or a large cornice fall, or a human trigger in a shallow or variable-depth snowpack area could still be potential triggers. These layers consist of sun crust, surface hoar and/or facets. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50 cm of recent snow sits on a crust at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above treeline the storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. A layer buried mid March is down 30 to 60cm is crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on high elevation north. A layer buried early March is 50 to 80cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those just described.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights later in the spring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 5 and 10cm of new snow today from convective flurries. Moderate to strong winds continue to add to the existing wind slab problem, but slab formation is variable and not as widespread as expected. The recent snow is sluffing in steep Alpine terrain. In addition to the surface slabs, forecasters continue to watch for buried slabs that sit on the March 15th crust. Watch for this specifically on solar aspects. In addition, several different wind slab interfaces are found in wind prone areas. Human triggering of wind slabs of various depths is possible.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow is settled and is bonding to the old surface up to treeline elevations. Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow and more wind last week. In these areas the storm snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts from Tuesday's storm vary widely across the region and range from about 30- 60 cm, and taper with elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This snow has buried the old interface from late-March which consists of; a supportive crust on solar and all aspects below 1900 m, and old wind slabs, facets and surface hoar on high northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of surface hoar (buried mid- March) have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 60-80 cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At tree line and above, most of the region's upper snowpack consists of 20-40 cm of recent storm snow. Areas just east of Kootenay Lake however have seen closer to 70 cm of storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This snow sits on the late-March interface that consists of; old wind slabs on northerly aspects, and crusts on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and can likely be found at approximately 40-60 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs exist on all aspects, produced from redistribution of last weekend’s storm snow from variable wind directions. This snow sits on a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m, as well as surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m.  At ridgetop, cornices are large and have been failing in the past days.  At lower elevations, expect to find moist snow on the surface with daytime warming and potential rainfall, which will freeze into a crust with cooler overnight temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the mid-December and late-November weak layers are composed of crusts and sugary facets, which are down 150 to 300 cm. These layers are currently considered dormant but may be awoken by a large trigger, such as a cornice fall.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs exist on all aspects in exposed terrain, produced from variable wind directions that redistributed last weekend’s storm snow.  In sheltered locations, expect to find dry snow in shady areas or wet snow on southerly aspects.  This snow overlies a crust found up to 2200 metres.  On shaded aspects at treeline in parts of the region, a layer of surface hoar is found about 40 cm down.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The midpack is well-settled and strong, which overlies sugary facets in thin snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest winds. This snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Last weekend's 20-40 cm of storm snow sits on a crust that is present at all elevations on solar aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and or facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in the north of the region, north and east aspects are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar layer buried early March that is about 40-60 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region in the past week. Also in the north of the region a weak layer buried mid-February is about 60 to 80 cm below the surface and has been reactive in snowpack tests. The layer is composed of sugary facets, a sun crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar that is present at and below tree line. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the recent storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm is expected to bring another 10 to 30 cm of snow to the southern parts of the region. This overlies last weekends 50 to 80 cm of storm snow, with the highest accumulation at high elevations and closest to the coast. Strong westerly winds have redistributed last weeks snow in open areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two layers of surface hoar exist in the region at depths of about 40 to 60 cm, being buried early and mid-March. At low elevations, a melt-freeze crust also exists.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Numerous dormant layers exist deeper in the snowpack. Layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February. A surface hoar/crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets exist in colder and dryer parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm is expected to bring another 10 to 30 cm of snow to the southern parts of the region. This overlies last weekends 40 cm of storm snow, which has settled into a reactive slab and is not bonding well to old snow surfaces. These include two layers of surface hoar, which exist on shaded aspects at high elevations as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried 50 to 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets exist, particularly in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas. Shallower storm slabs have stepped down to these facets recently, producing very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts following Tuesday's storm typically range from 40 to 50 cm and up to 70 cm in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow sits a variety of old surfaces which form the late-March interface that consists of; crust on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900m, and surface hoar on high north and east aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeper crust/surface interface buried mid-March is now down about 60 to 80 cm, and is similar to the late-March interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers but are generally considered dormant.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 60 to 100 cm of recent storm snow has fallen with moderate to strong winds from the south / west. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on a variety of old snow surfaces buried late-March that consist of: sun crusts at lower elevations and on south aspects, and older storm snow or wind slabs up high. Surface hoar layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60 cm of recent snow sits on a crust at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. On northerly aspects at and above tree line the storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. A layer buried mid March is down 30 to 60cm is crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on high elevation north. A layer buried early March is 50 to 80cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those just described.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A flight through the region today gave us a good look around. Most alpine areas have widespread wind slabs of various densities, but the tighter, sheltered drainages are still holding decent snow below ridgeline. Treeline has less wind affect overall with soft snow on sheltered north aspects. The aspect begins to play a role at this elevation. The Mar 15 crust is widespread on any solar aspect. It is down 20-40cm and so far has a decent bond to the surface layers. Intense sun today will likely form another thin surface crust on south aspects. Overall, the snowpack is reasonably solid, but still a ways from our usual spring like snowpack typical of late march. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snow is settled and has bonded to the old surface up to treeline elevations. Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow and more wind last week. In these areas the storm snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 15-30 cm of snow on Friday brings the weekly total to 40-80 cm, with amounts tapering with elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of surface hoar (buried mid-March) have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 60-80 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowfall amounts have been variable over the past week, with areas just east of Kootenay Lake receiving up to 80 cm of snow while eastern parts of the region received 20-40 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40-60 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 5 to 10 cm of snow fell on Friday.  Wind slabs may linger on all aspects at higher elevations, produced from the redistribution of last weekend’s storm snow with variable wind directions. This snow sits on a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1600 m, as well as surface hoar on north aspects above 1600 m.  At ridgetop, cornices are large and have been failing in the past few days.  At low elevations, expect to find a surface crust or moist snow on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the late-November weak layer is composed of weak and sugary facets around a crust, which is buried around 200 to 300 cm and considered dormant.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 to 20 cm of new snow fell at higher elevations, with associated strong westerly switching to easterly winds. This new snow fell on previous wind slabs that exist on all aspects in exposed terrain.  In sheltered locations, expect to find dry snow in shady areas. A melt-freeze crust is found at low elevations, where the precipitation fell as rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 50 cm deep, a crust is found up to 2200 metres.  At a similar depth, a layer of surface hoar is found on shaded aspects at treeline in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The midpack is well-settled and strong. This overlies sugary facets in thin snowpack areas.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've seen only trace amounts of new snow in the past two days. Winds, however, have been moderate to strong from the south, building fresh wind slabs and further growing cornices. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest winds. This snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. The March 21st interface has been giving variably moderate to hard sudden planar results, typically down 50-60cm on 1-2mm facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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 past two days have seen only 1-6cm of new snow in most areas (with some higher amounts in isolated areas of the Coquihalla). Winds have redistributed older snow to give a wide variety of surfaces: hard wind slabs, soft wind slabs and melt-freeze crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from a week ago sits on a crust that is present at all elevations on sunny aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and or facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in the north of the region, north and east aspects are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar layer buried early March that is about 40-60 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region in the past week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the last storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm dumped 30 to 40 cm of snow in the south of the region, such as around Terrace and Shames. This overlies last weekends storm snow, which was redistributed with strong westerly winds in exposed areas at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two layers of surface hoar exist in the region at depths of about 60 to 80 cm, being buried early and mid-March. At low elevations, the storm snow sits on a melt-freeze crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dormant weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack. Layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar from mid- and late-February are buried 100 to 150 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets exist in shallower parts of the region, such as the far north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm brought up to 35 cm of snow to the southern parts of the region, such as around Smithers. This overlies last weekends storm snow, which has settled into a reactive slab and is not bonding well to old snow surfaces that are about 50 cm deep. These include two layers of surface hoar, which exist on shaded aspects at high elevations as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried about 100 cm exist from mid- and late-February and a surface hoar/crust layer from January is buried around 150 to 200 cm. Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets exist, particularly in steep, rocky, and shallow snowpack areas. Shallower storm slabs have stepped down to these facets recently, producing very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 15-30 cm of snow on Friday brings the weekly total to 40-80 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeper layer buried mid-March is now 60 to 90 cm below the surface, and is similar to the late-March interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 10-20 cm of snow on Friday brings the weekly total to 60-100 cm. Storm snow was accompanied with moderate to strong winds from the southwest.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60 cm of recent snow sits on a crust at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. Winds were moderate to strong from the north west on Wednesday (switching to southwest by Friday) , creating fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On northerly aspects at and above tree line the storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. Two other weak layers are present in the upper snowpack. A layer buried mid March is down 30 to 60cm is crust on solar aspects and surface hoar on high elevation north. A layer buried early March is 50 to 80cm below the surface and is similar in composition to those just described.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10cm new snow in the last 24 hours with moderate to strong variable winds. Fresh wind slabs on all aspects in alpine terrain, but only east aspects at treeline. Valley bottom has a new widespread crust from yesterday, which will likely be buried by tomorrow. This new crust is also present on solar aspects up to 2300m. Expect new snow to not stick very well at first.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've seen only small amounts of new snow (1-8cm) in the past two days with daytime high temperatures rising to just above freezing at tree line elevations. The end result has given us a ~3cm thick melt-freeze crust that is generally unsupportive at lower elevations (below tree line) and supportive at higher elevations (tree line), particularly in the North Shore mountains. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow and more wind early in the week. In these areas the storm snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 10-25 cm of snow on Friday brings the weekly total to 40-80 cm, with amounts tapering with elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of surface hoar (buried mid-March) have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 60-80 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowfall amounts have been variable over the past week, with areas just east of Kootenay Lake receiving up to 80 cm of snow and eastern parts of the region receiving only 20-40 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40-60 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs may exist on all aspects at higher elevations from recent snowfall and variable wind directions.  Expect to find a melt-freeze crust on the surface on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1700 m. A surface hoar and crust layer is found around treeline at a depth of about 60 cm, with surface hoar on northerly aspects and the crust elsewhere.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At ridgetop, cornices are large and have been failing the past few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the late-November weak layer is composed of sugary facets around a crust, which is buried around 200 to 300 cm and is currently dormant.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10 to 25 cm of new snow fell at higher elevations on Friday, with associated strong westerly switching to easterly winds. The precipitation fell as rain at lower elevations, which froze into a melt-freeze crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 50 cm deep, a crust is found up to 2200 metres. At a similar depth, a layer of surface hoar is found on shaded aspects at treeline in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The midpack is well-settled and strong. This overlies sugary facets in thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've seen only trace amounts of new snow in the past three days. Winds, however, were moderate to strong from the south through to Friday, building fresh wind slabs and further growing cornices.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm snow was redistributed by moderate to strong southwest winds. This snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. The March 21st interface has been giving variably moderate to hard sudden planar results, typically down 50-60cm on 1-2mm facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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 past three days have seen only 3-9cm of new snow in most areas (with some higher amounts in isolated areas of the Coquihalla). Daytime warming created moist, heavy surface snow on sunny aspects, which refroze to form a crust overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds redistributed older snow to give a wide variety of surfaces: hard wind slabs, soft wind slabs on shady aspects, and the melt-freeze crusts on sunny aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from a week ago sits on a deeper crust that is present at all elevations on sunny aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and or facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack in the north of the region, north and east aspects are harboring cold snow and a surface hoar layer buried early March that is about 40-60 cm below the surface. This layer exists at alpine and treeline elevations, but it is not everywhere. This layer has produced large human triggered avalanches in the north of the region in the past week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the last storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday’s storm dumped 30 to 40 cm of snow in the south of the region, such as around Terrace and Shames.  There is now about 70 to 90 cm of storm snow that overlies two layers of surface hoar, which were buried early- and mid-March. At low elevations, the storm snow sits on a melt-freeze crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dormant weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack.  Layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar from mid- and late-February are buried 100 to 150 cm.  Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets exist in shallower parts of the region, such as the far north.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm brought up to 40 cm of snow to the southern parts of the region, such as around Smithers. This overlies last weekends storm snow that has settled into a reactive slab about 50 cm thick. This slab is not bonding well to two layers of surface hoar, which exist on shaded aspects at high elevations as well as a melt-freeze crust on all aspects at treeline and below treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, layers of crusts, facets, and isolated surface hoar buried about 100 cm exist from mid-February. Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets recently, producing very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 20-30 cm of snow on Friday brings the weekly total throughout the region to 40-80 cm. Strong west winds have redistributed the snow in alpine and treeline terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeper layer buried mid-March is now 60 to 90 cm below the surface, and is similar to the late-March interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 20-30 cm of snow on Friday brings last week's total to 60-100 cm. Storm snow was accompanied with strong west wind, forming reactive slabs at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and sun over the long weekend resulted in moist surface snow on sunny aspects, and firm crusts when the surface froze overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60 cm of snow from last week sits on a crust at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. Winds were moderate to strong from the north west on Wednesday (switching to southwest by Friday), creating fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On northerly aspects at and above tree line the old storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. Another weak layer buried mid March is down 50 to 80cm and is a crust on solar aspects and surface hoar (to 6mm) on high elevation north. The surface hoar is still giving sudden collapse test results.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25cm recent storm snow at Treeline. In the early stage of the storm the winds were strong from the NW switching to SW. This has formed surface and near surface wind slabs in the Alpine. Cornices have grown. At the tail end of the storm the winds tapered off and at Treeline and below there is little to no wind effect in the surface snow. A series of sun crusts are buried on solar aspects, but generally seem unreactive, however the Mar 15 crust down up to 30cm is still being monitored.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </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">At tree line and below, we're into a spring cycle with a good re-freeze overnight (supportive crust) followed by daytime warming to +6 and wet surface snow. New snow amounts over the past three days (1-8cm) have been absorbed into the spring snowpack cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow and more wind early last week. In these areas the more recent snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light new snow amounts have begun to accumulate over wind-affected surfaces as well as a new crust on sun-exposed aspects. Below the surface, storm snow totals from</span><span class="s_E6FD2046"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">last week reached 40-80 cm, with amounts that taper with elevation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of surface hoar (buried mid-March) have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 60-80 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light new snow amounts have begun to accumulate over wind-affected surfaces as well as a new crust on solar aspects. Below the surface, accumulations from last week vary from up to 80 cm amounts in areas just east of Kootenay Lake to a mere 20-40 cm in eastern parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40-60 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Substantial amounts of new snowfall are expected in the region, with accumulations that could reach 30 cm in localized areas. The new snow will fall on a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1700 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer buried mid-March is found around treeline at a depth of about 70 cm, with weak surface hoar on northerly aspects and the crust elsewhere. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the late-November weak layer is composed of sugary facets around a crust, which is buried around 200 to 300 cm and is currently dormant.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At ridgetop, cornices are large and were actively failing over the last week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of new snowfall is expected in the region. The new snow will fall on wind slabs at higher elevations and a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects at low elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Numerous crusts are found around 60 to 80 cm deep up to 2200 m. At a similar depth, a layer of surface hoar is found on shaded aspects at treeline in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The midpack is well-settled and strong. This overlies sugary facets in thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've seen only trace amounts of new snow in the past four days, although convective activity on Sunday could produce local amounts of 10-15cm. Winds, however, were once again moderate to strong from the south / southwest Saturday night, keeping wind slabs in the front of our minds and further growing cornices.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Sunny aspects have been through a melt-freeze cycle over the past few days, in addition to likely being wind scoured. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm snow was redistributed by moderate to strong southwest winds. This snow rests on the March 21st interface, a mix of moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. The March 21st interface has been giving variably moderate to hard sudden planar results, typically down 50-60cm on 1-2mm facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, 80 to 140 cm below the surface is a combination of facets, surface hoar, and/or crust known as the mid-February layer. This interface has not been active recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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 past four days have seen only 5-15 cm of new snow in most ar</span><span class="s_3FE45715">eas (although convective activity on Sunday could produce additional local amounts of 10-15cm). Daytime warming </span><span class="s_3FE45715">created moist, heavy surface snow on sunny aspects, which refroze to form a crust overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds picked up on Sunday morning, creating fresh wind slabs on northerly aspects. The newer snow sits on a wide variety of surfaces: hard wind slabs, soft wind slabs on shady </span><span class="s_3FE45715">aspects,</span><span class="s_3FE45715"> and the melt-freeze crusts on sunny aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from a week ago sits on a deeper crust that is present at all elevations on sunny aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects at treeline and alpine elevations the storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and or facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, around the Coquihalla and in Manning Park, the last storm snow overlies a recent crust that caps a well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect to find a surface crust on southerly aspects from the weekend’s clear skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, there is about 70 to 90 cm of storm snow from last week that overlies two layers of surface hoar, which are most prominent on north to easterly aspects and were buried early- and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.  At low elevations, last week’s storm snow sits on a melt-freeze crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets exist in shallower parts of the region, such as the far north.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect to find a surface crust on southerly aspects from the weekend’s clear skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A reactive slab about 50 cm thick has developed from last week’s storm snow.  This slab overlies two layers of weak surface hoar, which exist on shaded aspects at high elevations.  The slab sits on a melt-freeze crust on all aspects below treeline.  The storm snow may still be loose in sheltered and shady locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas.  Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets recently, producing very large avalanches.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 20-30 cm of new snow on Friday brought the weekly total throughout the region to 40-80 cm. Strong west winds have redistributed the snow in alpine and treeline terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on a layer buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeper layer buried mid-March is now 60 to 90 cm below the surface, and is similar to the late-March interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 20-30 cm of new snow on Friday brought last week's total to 60-100 cm. Storm snow was accompanied with strong west wind, forming reactive slabs at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow sits on an interface buried in late-March that consist of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and sun over the long weekend resulted in moist snow on sunny aspects, and firm crusts when the surface froze overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60 cm of snow from last week sits on a crust at all elevations on solar aspects and all aspects below 1900 m elevation. Winds were moderate to strong from the north west on Wednesday (switching to southwest by Friday), creating fresh wind slabs on down wind (lee) aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On northerly aspects at and above tree line the old storm snow is burying a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. Another weak layer buried mid March is down 50 to 80cm and is a crust on solar aspects and surface hoar (to 6mm) on high elevation north. The surface hoar is still giving sudden collapse test results.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent storm snow the we received earlier in the week is settling and beginning to strengthen.  Isolated windslabs are being found in Alpine terrain along ridge crests and gullied features but do not extend far downslope.  On solar aspects there is a new thin melt freeze crust the developed on Saturday and then the deeper march 15th crust down closer to 50cm.  Field tests are showing no results on this crust so far but we are still cautious in bigger south facing terrain.  Dig down and evaluate this interface before committing to a feature.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At tree line and below, we're into a spring cycle with a good re-freeze overnight (supportive crust) followed by daytime warmings to +6 and wet surface snow. New snow amounts over the past several days (10 cm or less) have been absorbed into the spring snowpack cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow a week ago, with wind early last week. In these areas the more recent snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5-20 cm of new snow over Sunday night has brought storm snow totals from the past week to a wide-ranging 50-90 cm. with amounts that taper with elevation. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong west wind and formed reactive slabs at higher elevations. More recent north winds reached extreme, so a mix of stubborn old and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind effect at the surface, a break between storm pulses allowed for the formation of yet another layer of sun crust (south aspects) and surface hoar (shaded aspects) that is now buried by 20-30 cm of new snow. The full depth of recent storm snow sits on a persistent weak layer buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of surface hoar (buried mid-March) have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 70-100 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snowfall over Sunday night brought a trace to 25 cm to the region, burying previously wind-affected surfaces as well as a new sun crust on sun-exposed aspects. Storm snow totals from the past week are now a highly variable 20-80 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This storm snow sits on an persistent weak layer buried in late March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40-80 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of snow on Sunday night has fallen above a melt-freeze crust on sunny aspects and all aspects below 1700 m. The new snow has been wind-affected and may take awhile to bond to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar and crust layer buried mid-March is found around treeline at a depth of about 80 cm, with weak surface hoar on northerly aspects and the crust elsewhere. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, the late-November weak layer is composed of sugary facets around a crust, which is buried around 200 to 300 cm deep and is currently dormant.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large along ridgetops and were actively failing last week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern parts of the region received 5-10 cm on Sunday night while up to 25 cm fell in southern parts of the region. The new snow sits above old wind slabs at higher elevations and above hard crust layers at lower elevations and on sunny aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Numerous crusts are found around 60 to 80 cm deep up to 2200 m. At a similar depth, a layer of surface hoar is found on shaded aspects at treeline in parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The midpack is well-settled and strong. This overlies sugary facets in thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of new snow fell on Easter Sunday (with some locally higher amounts due to intense convective activity and gusty winds). Winds have been gusting strong, previously from the south and most recently the north.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The end result is that snow conditions are wildly variable, ranging from melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects to scoured old hard wind slabs to isolated pockets of soft wind slab. </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/52f050d8-48d6-4b42-877a-66ecf8ceb515" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">See this MIN post for a good summary of conditions beyond the musical bumps.</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Old snow from a week ago rests on the March 21st interface, which has a very patchy distribution: moist grains at low elevations, crusts on solar aspects at all elevations and surface hoar/facets on north/east facing features at treeline and alpine elevations. Some west facing features may have surface hoar on top of a crust. The March 21st interface has been giving variably moderate to hard sudden planar results, typically down 50-60cm on 1-2mm facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Convective flurries and gusty winds on Easter Sunday resulted in some local accumulations up to 25cm; however, most areas saw 10-15cm of new snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This new snow sits on melt-freeze crusts on sunny aspects at treeline and below or it sits on hard wind slabs in the alpine, and possibly some soft wind slabs on shady aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds picked up earlier on Sunday morning, creating fresh wind slabs on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from a week ago sits on a deeper crust that is present at all elevations on sunny aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects between 1900m and 2250m the old storm snow sits on a mix of large surface hoar and or facets buried March 21st, and found down anywhere from 20-70cm. The distribution the March 21st layer is patchy, and has resulted in some hard to trigger avalanches ranging from size 1 to 2.5. </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">Moderate amounts of new snow are expected in the region, but accumulations could reach 30 cm in some localized areas. The new snow will fall on a hard crust layer on south-facing slopes and at elevations below 800-1200 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, there is about 70 to 90 cm of snow from last week that overlies two layers of surface hoar, which are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of new snow is expected on Tuesday. The new snow will sit above a sun crust on southerly aspects from the weekend's clear skies.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A reactive slab about 50 cm thick has developed after last week's storm. On shaded aspects at high elevations, this slab overlies two layers of weak surface hoar. On all aspects below treeline, the slab sits on a melt-freeze crust. The storm snow may still be loose in sheltered and shady locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets recently, producing very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5-20 cm of new snow over Sunday night has brought storm snow totals from the past week to a wide-ranging 40-90 cm. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong west wind and formed reactive slabs at higher elevations. More recent north winds reached extreme, so a mix of stubborn old and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind effect at the surface, a break between storm pulses allowed for the formation of yet another layer of sun crust (south aspects) and surface hoar (shaded aspects) that is now buried by 20-30 cm of new snow. The full depth of recent storm snow sits on a persistent weak layer buried in late-March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A deeper layer buried mid-March is now 60 to 90 cm below the surface, and is similar to the late-March interface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms brought totals of 60-100 cm of new snow to the region. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong west wind, forming reactive slabs at higher elevations. More recent north winds reached extreme, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas, the storm snow has been settling into a slab above a persistent weak layer buried in late-March that consists of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. Although this problem is now being labeled a persistent slab, our recent storm slab releases have been running on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Well that was quite a storm, wasn't it Nelson? The region saw wildly variable amounts of new snow on Monday morning, ranging from 2cm to 48cm near Nelson!!!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on firm crusts on sunny aspects, and all aspects below 1900m. On higher, shady aspects, the new snow may sit on some old wind slabs from last week, or a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another weak layer buried mid March is down 50 to 120cm and is a crust on solar aspects and surface hoar (to 6mm) on high elevation north. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few centimetres of fresh snow fell in the past 24 hours. The recent storm snow the we received earlier in the week is settling and beginning to strengthen. Isolated wind slabs are being found in Alpine terrain along ridge crests and gully features but do not extend far down slope. On solar aspects there is a new thin melt freeze crust the developed on Saturday and then the deeper march 15th crust down closer to 50cm. Field tests are showing no results on this crust so far but we are still cautious in bigger south facing terrain. Dig down and evaluate this interface before committing to a feature.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At tree line and below, we're into a spring cycle with a good re-freeze overnight (supportive crust) followed by daytime warmings to +6 and wet surface snow. New snow amounts over the past several days (10 cm or less) have been absorbed into the spring snowpack cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow a week ago, with wind early last week. In these areas the more recent snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5-20 cm of new snow over Sunday night brought storm snow totals from the past week to a wide-ranging 50-90 cm, with amounts that taper with elevation. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind-affected surface, a few regionally variable weak layers exist within the depth of the recent storm snow, formed during breaks in storms that allowed for the formation of sun crusts on sun exposed slopes as well as surface hoar on shaded aspects. These shallower layers (20-50 cm deep) remain a concern, as does the similar mid-March persistent weak layer, now buried up to a metre deep. The reactivity of these layers appears to decrease with depth, however the mid-March layer still features in daily reports and the potential for deep 'step down' types of releases can't yet be dismissed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storms over the past week brought variable snowfall totals of 20-80 cm to the region, with areas to the south of the region seeing the deepest accumulations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This storm snow sits on a persistent weak layer buried in late March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40-90 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 15 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Wind has formed isolated slabs in lee features, and in some cases snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 80 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large along ridgetops and were actively failing last week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Northern parts of the region have less new snow than southern parts. Wind has formed hard slabs in lee features, and in some cases the snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist in the top metre of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've been seeing regular amounts of light snow (2-10 cm each day) since Easter Sunday (with some locally higher amounts due to intense convective activity and gusty winds). Winds have been gusting strong, previously from the north and most recently the south.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The end result is that snow conditions are wildly variable, with a skiff of new snow sitting on: melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, scoured old hard wind slabs, isolated pockets of soft wind slab or soft snow giving decent skiing in some sheltered locations. </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/52f050d8-48d6-4b42-877a-66ecf8ceb515" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">See this MIN post for a good summary of conditions beyond the musical bumps.</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Old snow from a week ago rests on the March 21st interface, which has a very patchy distribution, but is mostly likely to be found on shady aspects between 1900m and 2250m. The March 21st interface has been giving variably moderate to hard resistant planar results, typically down 40-60cm on 1-2mm facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</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">Only small amounts of new snow (2-4cm) in the north and modest amounts (5-14cm) of low density snow in the south on Tuesday. Winds were gusting moderate from the (north) east in the Coquihalla. This adds to the new snow from Sunday, which resulted in some local accumulations of up to 25cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This new snow sits on melt-freeze crusts on sunny aspects at treeline and below or it sits on hard wind slabs in the alpine, and possibly some soft wind slabs on shady aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from a week ago sits on a deeper crust that is present at all elevations on sunny aspects as well as low elevation northerly aspects. On northerly and east aspects between 1900m and 2250m the old storm snow sits on a mix of rounding surface hoar and/or facets buried March 21st, and found down anywhere from 20-70cm. The distribution the March 21st layer is patchy, and has resulted in some hard to trigger avalanches ranging from size 1 to 2.5. </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">10-30 cm of new snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, 70 to 90 cm of snow overlies two layers of surface hoar. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Trace amounts of new snow sit above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week avalanches were failing on weak layers roughly 40 cm below the surface. The weak layers included surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5-20 cm of new snow over Sunday night brought storm snow totals from the past week to a wide-ranging 40-90 cm. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind-affected surface, a few regionally variable weak layers exist within the depth of the recent storm snow, formed during breaks in storms that allowed for the formation of sun crusts on sun exposed slopes as well as surface hoar on shaded aspects. These shallower layers remain a concern, as does the similar mid-March persistent weak layer, now buried up to a metre deep. The reactivity of these layers appears to decrease with depth, however the mid-March layer still features in daily reports and the potential for deep 'step down' types of releases can't yet be dismissed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms brought totals of 60-100 cm of new snow to the region. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas, this storm snow has been gradually settling into a slab above a persistent weak layer buried in mid-March that consists of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. The structure of storm snow above this layer isn't uniform, however, and recent storm slabs have been observed running on an interface down about 40 cm as well as at the late-March crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Well that was quite a storm, wasn't it Nelson? The region saw wildly variable amounts of new snow on Monday morning, ranging from 2cm to 48cm near Nelson!!! Since then, only 2-4 cm of new snow has fallen, and temperatures stayed cool. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow sits on firm crusts on sunny aspects, and all aspects below 1900m. On higher, shady aspects, the new snow may sit on some old wind slabs from last week, or a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another weak layer buried mid March is down 50 to 120cm and is a crust on solar aspects and surface hoar (to 6mm) on high elevation north. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few other persistent weak layers are buried in the mid and lower snowpack, but they have gone dormant and are unlikely to resurface until we move into a period with consecutive above-freezing nights. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Trace amounts of new snow in the past 24hrs. Both surface and buried wind slabs are found in the Alpine, but these are not widespread. In some areas the surface snow is exhibiting very little wind effect. Sun crusts on solar aspects remained frozen for much of the day due to cool temperatures and light winds. The March 15 crust is down 30 to 50cm on solar aspects, but has been unreactive for several days. The midpack is very well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At tree line and below, we're into a spring cycle with a good re-freeze overnight (supportive crust) followed by daytime warmings to +3 and wet surface snow. New snow amounts over the past several days (10 cm or less) have been absorbed into the spring snowpack cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish likely received about 60-100 cm of storm snow a week ago, with wind early last week. In these areas the more recent snow is possibly sitting on a mixture of weak grains including a crust on solar aspects and potentially facets/surface hoar on polar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the storm snow the snowpack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday night's storm produced 10 cm of cold snow with very little wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5-20 cm Sunday night brought storm totals from the past week to a wide-ranging 50-90 cm, with amounts that taper with elevation. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind-affected surface, a few regionally variable weak layers exist within the depth of the recent storm snow, formed during breaks in storms that allowed for the formation of sun crusts on sun exposed slopes as well as surface hoar on shaded aspects. These shallower layers (20-50 cm deep) remain a concern, as does the similar mid-March persistent weak layer, now buried up to a metre deep. The reactivity of these layers appears to decrease with depth, however the mid-March layer still features in daily reports and the potential for deep 'step down' types of releases can't yet be dismissed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday night's storm brought up to 8 cm of new snow with very little wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storms over the past week brought variable snowfall totals of 20-80 cm to the region, with areas to the south of the region seeing the deepest accumulations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This storm snow sits on a persistent weak layer buried in late March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40-90 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm storm snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Wind has formed isolated slabs in lee features, and in some cases snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 80 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large along ridgetops and were actively failing last week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Northern parts of the region have less new snow than southern parts. Wind has formed hard slabs in lee features, and in some cases the snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist in the top metre of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast snow is expected to build new storm/wind slabs on Thursday. Cornices are reported to be large and fragile. New snow will overlie various old surfaces including existing storm slabs, melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, scoured old hard wind slabs and dry snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets or a sun crust buried in late March is now down about 60-80 cm. This is patchy in its distribution, but is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900m and 2250m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snow and moderate winds have created touchy slabs in specific terrain. Cornices are reported to be large and fragile. New snow overlies various old surfaces including melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, scoured old hard wind slabs and dry snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets or a sun crust buried in late March is now down about 60-80 cm. This is patchy in its distribution, but is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900m and 2250m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of new snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, 70 to 90 cm of snow overlies two layers of surface hoar. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A skiff of fresh snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week avalanches were failing on weak layers roughly 40 cm below the surface. The weak layers included surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up a few centimeters Tuesday night with very little wind.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5-20 cm of new snow Sunday night brought storm snow totals from the past week to a wide-ranging 40-90 cm. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind-affected surface, a few regionally variable weak layers exist within the depth of the recent storm snow, formed during breaks in storms that allowed for the formation of sun crusts on sun exposed slopes as well as surface hoar on shaded aspects. These shallower layers remain a concern, as does the similar mid-March persistent weak layer, now buried up to a metre deep. The reactivity of these layers appears to decrease with depth, however the mid-March layer still features in daily reports and the potential for deep 'step down' types of releases can't yet be dismissed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday night's storm brought up to 10 cm of cold snow to the region with very little wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms brought totals of 60-100 cm of new snow to the region. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old and stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now likely be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas, this storm snow has been gradually settling into a slab above a persistent weak layer buried in mid-March that consists of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. The structure of storm snow above this layer isn't uniform, however, and recent storm slabs have been observed running on an interface down about 40 cm as well as at the late-March crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm recent snow is slowly settling. Storm snow overlies variable surfaces including hard crusts on all aspects below 1900 m, and sunny aspects higher up. On high, shady aspects, the new snow may sit on some old wind slabs from last week, or a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another weak layer buried in mid-March is down 50 to 120 cm and is a crust on solar aspects and surface hoar (to 6mm) on high elevation north aspects. Deeper weak layers are generally considered dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Windslabs are being found in Alpine areas along ridgelines and cross loaded features. We are certainly avoiding steeper unsupported features such as above cliff walls and convex rolls that are near the entrances to some runs and terrain features. On solar aspects the march 15th crust is down 40-60cm and the bond on this crust has been variable. Did down and check this interface if you plan on moving onto more solar aspects. The skiing is likely not great on these aspects due to the presence of thin surface crusts. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas around Squamish are expected to develop new storm slabs on Thursday. New snow will add to recent snow which overlies variable surfaces including crusts and facets. Little is known about these buried weak layers, but they are more likely to be problematic on shady aspects. The mid and lower snowpack are generally strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At treeline and below, a strong spring snowpack exists. Rain may break down surface crusts on Thursday, but the snowpack is expected to regain strength once the temperature drops again. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday night's storm produced 10 cm of cold snow with very little wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 20 cm of snow fell Sunday night putting the storm total at 50 to 90 cm, with amounts that taper with elevation. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old/stubborn as well as newer more reactive wind slabs can be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind-affected surface, a few regionally variable weak layers exist within the upper 20 to 50 cm of snow. Breaks in the storm allowed for the formation of sun crusts on sun exposed slopes as well as surface hoar on shaded aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March PWL consists of crust/surface hoar and is now buried up to a metre deep. This PWL continues to produce large human triggered avalanches daily. The potential for deep 'step down' avalanches can't be dismissed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being observed by professionals, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday night's storm brought up to 8 cm of new snow with very little wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storms over the past week brought variable snowfall totals of 20 to 80 cm to the region, with areas to the south of the region seeing the deepest accumulations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This storm snow sits on a persistent weak layer buried in late March that consist of crusts below 1900 m and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other slightly deeper surface hoar/facet layers have been reported on shaded aspects at higher elevations and may be found approximately 40 to 90 cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from mid-late February as well as January and December layers, are still being monitored by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm storm snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Wind has formed isolated slabs in lee features, and in some cases snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 80 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">10-15 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Northern parts of the region have less new snow than southern parts. Wind has formed hard slabs in lee features, and in some cases the snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist in the top metre of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow and wind are combining to create new slabs. Cornices are reported to be large and fragile. New snow will overlie various old surfaces including previous storm snow, melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, scoured old hard wind slabs and dry snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets or a sun crust buried in late March is now down about 60-80 cm. This is patchy in its distribution, but is still producing sporadic large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900m and 2250m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snow and moderate winds may have created touchy slabs in specific terrain. Cornices are reported to be large and fragile. New snow overlies various old surfaces including melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, scoured old hard wind slabs and dry snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets or a sun crust buried in late March is now down about 60-80 cm. This is patchy in its distribution, but is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900m and 2250m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well settled.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of new snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, 70 to 90 cm of snow overlies two layers of surface hoar. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">From 20 cm up to 40-50 cm of recent storm snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface. These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday night's storm produced 10 cm of cold snow with very little wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable 5 to 20 cm of snow Sunday night put storm totals from the past week at 40 to 90 cm, with amounts that taper with elevation. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old/stubborn as well as newer more reactive wind slabs can be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the wind-affected surface, a few regionally variable weak layers exist within the upper 40 to 90 cm of snow. Breaks in the storm allowed for the formation of sun crusts on sun exposed slopes as well as surface hoar on shaded aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March PWL consists of crust/surface hoar and is now buried up to a metre deep. This PWL continues to produce large avalanches daily. The potential for deep 'step down' avalanches can't be dismissed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being monitored by professionals, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms brought 60 to 100 cm of new snow to the region. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old/stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas, this storm snow has been gradually settling into a slab above a persistent weak layer buried in mid-March that consists of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. The structure of storm snow above this layer isn't uniform, however, and recent storm slabs have been observed running on an interface down about 40 cm as well as at the late-March crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm settled snow from last weekend overlies variable surfaces including a hard crust which exists on all aspects below 1900 m, and on sunny aspects higher up. On higher, shady aspects, the new snow may sit on some old wind slabs or a mix of large surface hoar and surface facets. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some professionals are still monitoring a deeper crust/surface hoar weak layer about 1 m down. Deeper weak layers are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface facetting continues in the upper snowpack due to the cold temperatures.  This is certainly helping the ski quality!  Isolated windslabs are being encountered along ridgelines but do not extend far downslope.  Cornices are very large for this time of year.  Also the March 15th crust is down 40-60cm on solar aspects up to peaks and the bond with the overlying snow is variable.  Dig down and test this layer....A new thin melt freeze crust formed on solar aspects on Thursday that may make the skiing a little more...hooky and challenging. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain fell on the snowpack below treeline on Thursday. Snow fell at higher elevations, potentially creating new storm slabs. Recent snow overlies variable surfaces including crusts and facets, which are more likely to be problematic on shady aspects. The mid and lower snowpack are generally strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At treeline and below, a strong spring snowpack exists. Rain may break down surface crusts, but the snowpack is expected to regain strength once the temperature drops again.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming temperatures and time have helped to settle the upper 30 to 40 cm of ageing storm snow and have formed a weak surface crust on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. Above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot;</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (those that face north and east). The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing, but it continues to produce large avalanches and the potential for deep 'step down' avalanches cannot be dismissed. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming temperatures and time have helped to settle the upper 30 to 40 cm of ageing storm snow and have formed a weak surface crust on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2400 on south facing slopes. On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot;</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (those that face north and east). The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing, but it continues to produce large avalanches and the potential for deep 'step down' avalanches cannot be dismissed. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant. Facets also linger at the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm storm snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Wind has formed isolated slabs in lee features, and in some cases snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 80 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">10-15 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Northern parts of the region have less new snow than southern parts. Wind has formed hard slabs in lee features, and in some cases the snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist in the top metre of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and strong southerly winds are creating new slabs at higher elevations. This snow overlies various old surfaces including previous storm snow, melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, and old wind slabs. On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At lower elevations, precipitation is falling as rain and creating wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, or a sun crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 90 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and strong southwesterly winds created new slabs at higher elevations.  This snow overlies various old surfaces including previous storm snow, melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, and old wind slabs.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At lower elevations, precipitation is falling as rain and creating wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, or a sun crust from late March is now buried about 40 to 70 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well-settled.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong to extreme winds have created widespread wind affect in the alpine and at treeline. At lower elevations up to 10-20 cm of snow sits on a solid crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, 70 to 100 cm of recent storm snow overlies two layers of surface hoar. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow this interface the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">From 20 cm up to 40-50 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed by strong winds and sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming temperatures and time have helped to settle the upper 30 to 40 cm of ageing storm snow and have formed a weak surface crust on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m.  This crust extends up to around 2500 on south facing slopes.  On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot;</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (those that face north and east). The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing, but it continues to produce large avalanches and the potential for deep 'step down' avalanches cannot be dismissed. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storms brought 60 to 100 cm of new snow to the region. The snowfall was initially accompanied by strong south winds and then followed by strong north winds, so a mix of old/stubborn and newer, more reactive wind slabs can now be found on a range of aspects at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In sheltered areas, this storm snow has been gradually settling into a slab above a persistent weak layer buried in mid-March that consists of crusts at low elevations and on south aspects, and surface hoar on shaded aspects at higher elevations. The structure of storm snow above this layer isn't uniform, however, and recent storm slabs have been observed running on an interface down about 40 cm as well as at the late-March crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Other persistent weak layers from early January and mid-December are still being reported by local operators, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of storm snow overlies settled snow from last weekend. A 5 cm thick crust is found around 40 cm deep on all aspects and elevations, except above 1900 m on north slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Winds increased overnight on Thursday and stiffened up the previous windslabs that existed in the upper snowpack.  These winds were variable so be on guard for these slabs as you approach ridgelines and around crossloaded features on all aspects.  On friday forecasters encountered these slabs up to 15cm thick in one valley and non-existent in the next valley less than 1km away.  A thin melt freeze crust also developed earlier in the week and can be found on all aspects except true north below 2000m and as high as 2400m on solar.  Cornices are large so travel cautiously around them.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 15 to 60 mm of rain fell on the snowpack up to around 1700 m on Thursday and Friday, with precipitation as snow above. More of the same is forecasted for Saturday. In alpine terrain, the snow will create new storm slabs. This snow overlies variable surfaces including crusts and facets, which are more likely to be problematic on shady aspects. The snowpack below this is generally strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At treeline and below treeline elevations, a spring snowpack exists. Rain is saturating and weakening the upper snowpack, allowing for loose wet avalanches. This wet snow may freeze overnight at higher elevations with cool temperatures. The mid and lower snowpack are strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's new snow is coming to rest on a weak surface crust that exists on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2500 m on south facing slopes. On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot; Warming temperatures and time have helped to settle the upper 30 to 40 cm just below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (those that face north and east). The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent wind and cold snow have formed wind slabs 10 to 40 cm in depth in the alpine that sit on a mix of crusts and surface hoar. Test profiles show resistent planar failures at this interface. In wind sheltered terrain Saturday's new snow is coming to rest on a surface crust that exists on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2400 m on south facing slopes. On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) is now 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east). The likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is steadily decreasing but the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm storm snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Wind has formed isolated slabs in lee features, and in some cases snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 80 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">10-15 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Northern parts of the region have less new snow than southern parts. Wind has formed hard slabs in lee features, and in some cases the snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist in the top metre of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 cm of recent snow and strong southerly winds have created new slabs at higher elevations. This snow overlies various old surfaces including previous storm snow, melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, and old wind slabs.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At lower elevations, precipitation fell as rain and creating wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, or a sun crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 90 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 cm of snow and strong southwesterly winds created new slabs at higher elevations.  This snow overlies various old surfaces including previous storm snow, melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, and old wind slabs.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At lower elevations, precipitation fell as rain and created wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, or a sun crust from late March is now buried about 40 to 70 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well-settled.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong to extreme winds have created widespread wind affect in the alpine and at treeline. At lower elevations up to 10-20 cm of snow sits on a solid crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, 70 to 100 cm of recent storm snow overlies two layers of surface hoar. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow this interface the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">From 20 cm up to 50 cm of recent storm snow is being redistributed by strong winds and sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's new snow is coming to rest on a weak surface crust that exists on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2500 on south facing slopes. On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have </span><span class="s_3FE45715">remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot; Warming temperatures and time have helped to settle the upper 30 to 40 cm just below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (those that face north and east). The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming temperatures and time have helped to settle the upper snowpack and have likely formed a weak surface crust on all aspects below about 1800 m. This crust likely extends higher on south facing slopes. On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot;</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL), which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (those that face north and east). The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 to 30 cm of storm snow fell with strong southeast winds, redistributing it into lee features in exposed terrain. The new snow overlies a thin crust and settled snow from last weekend. A 5 cm thick crust is found around 50 cm deep on all aspects and elevations, except above 1900 m on north slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures and mostly sunny skies on Saturday led to moist snow on solar aspects at all elevations and at lower elevations on polar aspects. Wind slabs in the Alpine are highly variable in distribution and density, but are most commonly found near ridgelines in lee and cross-loaded terrain. On steep solar aspects in the Alpine there is a 30 to 50cm thick slab overlying the March 15th crust, and though this condition is not widespread there has been some avalanche activity associated to this problem recently. Cornices are large, are feeling the heat of the April sun, and should be avoided.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 to 80 mm of rain fell on the snowpack up to around treeline between Thursday and Saturday, with precipitation as snow above. In alpine terrain, the snow has created new storm slabs. This snow overlies a thick crust in most areas except for possibly shady aspects in alpine terrain. The snowpack below the crust is generally strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At treeline and below treeline elevations, a spring snowpack exists. Rain saturated and weakened the upper snowpack.  The wet snow may freeze overnight at higher elevations with cool temperatures.  The mid and lower snowpack are strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 15 cm of new snow fell Saturday with moderate southerly wind. This snow rests on a crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent wind and cold snow have formed wind slabs 10 to 50 cm in depth in the alpine that sit on a mix of crusts and surface hoar. Test profiles show resistent planar failures at this interface. In wind sheltered terrain Saturday's new snow rests on a surface crust that exists on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2400 m on south facing slopes. On north facing slopes above 2000 m, temperatures have remained cold and the snowpack is still quite &quot;winter-like.&quot; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) is now 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east). The likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is steadily decreasing but the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">25 cm of new snow means about 40-50 cm of recent snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Wind has formed isolated slabs in lee features, and in some cases snow may be poorly bonded to buried crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 100 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">With about 20 cm on new snow on Sunday morning, 20-40 cm of snow sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Northern parts of the region have less new snow than southern parts. Wind has formed hard slabs in lee features, and in some cases the snow may be poorly bonded to the crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 cm of recent snow and strong southerly winds have created new slabs at higher elevations. This snow overlies a melt-freeze crust. On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At lower elevations, recent precipitation fell as rain, so expect moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, or a sun crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 90 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10 to 20 cm of recent snow and strong southwesterly winds created new slabs at higher elevations.  This snow overlies a melt-freeze crusts on sunny aspects and all aspects to treeline, and dry snow on shaded aspects in the alpine.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, precipitation fell as rain and created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, or a sun crust from late March is now buried about 40 to 80 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on shady aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are strong and well-settled.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong to extreme winds have created widespread wind affect in the alpine and at treeline. Warming followed by cooling has created a surface crust exists on all aspects up to 1500 m which will likely break down with daytime warming, becoming moist or wet by the afternoon.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">From 20 cm up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong winds and sits above a variety of crusts on all but high north aspects. Warming followed by cooling has created a surface crust on all aspects up to treeline elevations that will likely break down becoming moist or wet by the afternoon.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell Saturday with moderate southerly wind. This snow rests on a crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow fell Saturday with light variable wind. This snow rests on crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20 to 40 cm of storm snow fell with strong east switching to southwest winds, redistributing the snow into lee features in exposed terrain. The new snow overlies a melt-freeze crust on southerly aspects and on all aspects at low elevations, and settled snow on shaded aspects at high elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10cm fell over the past 24hrs with generally light winds.  This new snow is burying the previous wind slabs in the Alpine that are highly variable in distribution and density, but are most commonly found near ridgelines in lee and cross-loaded terrain. On steep solar aspects in the Alpine there is a 30 to 50cm thick slab overlying the March 15th crust, and though this condition is not widespread there has been some avalanche activity associated to this problem recently. Cornices are large, are feeling the heat of the April sun, and should be avoided.  Surface crusts should be expected on solar aspects to the peaks and on all aspects up to 2200m.  The best skiing is on sheltered N aspects. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 40 to 100 mm of rain fell on the snowpack up to around treeline between Thursday and Sunday, with precipitation as snow at alpine elevations and possible at treeline too. In higher terrain, snowfall has created new storm slabs. This snow overlies a thick crust in most areas except for possibly shady aspects in alpine terrain. The snowpack below the crust is generally strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline and possibly treeline elevations, a spring snowpack exists. The rain saturated and weakened the upper snowpack. The wet snow may freeze at higher elevations with cool temperatures. The mid and lower snowpack are strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 15 cm of new snow fell Saturday with moderate southerly wind. This snow rests on a crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent wind and cold snow have formed wind slabs 10 to 50 cm in depth in the alpine that sit on a mix of crusts and surface hoar. Test profiles show resistent planar failures at this interface. In wind sheltered terrain Saturday's new snow rests on a surface crust that exists on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2400 m on south facing slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) is now 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east). The likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is steadily decreasing but the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise Tuesday and Wednesday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rising freezing levels have caused the recent 25 cm of storm snow to become moist up to ridge top elevations. Below 1400 m, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 100 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. Below this, the mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">Rising freezing levels have caused the recent 10-15 cm of storm snow to become moist up to about 2000 m. Below 1400 m in some areas, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have moistened the snow surface on all aspects and at all elevations.  The forecasted snow on Tuesday will fall on this.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At lower elevations, recent precipitation fell as rain, so expect moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 120 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have moistened the snow surface on all aspects and at all elevations.  At higher elevations, this overlies slabs formed from the weekend’s snow that fell with strong southwesterly winds.  On Tuesday, new snow will fall with strong winds, forming new wind slabs in lee features.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, recent rain has created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain and warming have created wet or moist snow within the top 10-20 cm of the snowpack, with little to no overnight re-freeze. Only high alpine north aspects are still harboring dry snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rising freezing levels and daytime warming have created moist or wet snow surfaces on all but alpine, northerly aspects where 20 cm up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell Saturday with moderate southerly wind. This snow rests on a crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise Tuesday and Wednesday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow fell Saturday with light variable wind. This snow rests on crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Solar aspects are expected to be the most suspect as the freezing level begins to rise Tuesday and Wednesday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures have moistened the snow surface at all elevations and on all aspects. Forecasted snow on Tuesday will fall on this. Around 20 to 40 cm of storm snow that fell on the weekend with associated strong winds overlies numerous melt-freeze crusts formed over the past few weeks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moist snow on all aspects up to 2300m and higher on solar aspects, but  moderate winds kept the upper Alpine cooler. Both surface and buried wind slabs are found in wind prone areas in the Alpine and these have been building more into the Treeline with the persistent winds. The March 15th crust down 30 to 50cm on solar aspects has been active in recent days in isolated terrain (see avalanche summary). Cornices are large, are feeling the heat of the April sun, and should be avoided.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures are moistening the weekend’s 40 to 100 cm of storm snow at treeline and alpine elevations, which sits above a thick crust.  Tuesday’s precipitation will continue to moisten the snow where it falls as rain and build new slabs where it falls as snow.  It is difficult to predict where and when rain will switch to snow, but expect the transition to happen midday on Tuesday, after which point most precipitation will fall as snow in the region above 1000 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At below treeline elevations, a spring snowpack exists. Rain on the weekend saturated and weakened the upper snowpack.  Forecasted rain will continue this trend.  The mid and lower snowpack are strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 15 cm of new snow fell Saturday with moderate southerly wind. This snow rests on a crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Persistent slab avalanche activity on polar (north and east) aspects has dramatically decreased and solar (south and west) aspects are expected to be the most suspect over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent wind and cold snow have formed wind slabs 10 to 50 cm in depth in the alpine that sit on a mix of crusts and surface hoar. Test profiles show resistent planar failures at this interface. In wind sheltered terrain Saturday's new snow rests on a surface crust that exists on all aspects aside from true north below 2000 m. This crust extends up to around 2400 m on south facing slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) is now 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east). The likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is steadily decreasing but the consequence of doing so remains high. Persistent slab avalanche activity on polar (north and east) aspects has dramatically decreased and solar (south and west) aspects are expected to be the most suspect over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rising freezing levels have caused the recent 25 cm of storm snow to become moist up to ridge top elevations, with minimal overnight re-freeze. Below 1400 m, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 100 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. Below this, the mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">Rising freezing levels have caused the recent 10-15 cm of storm snow to become moist up to about 2000 m, with minimal overnight re-freeze. Below 1400 m in some areas, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and rain have moistened the snow surface on all aspects and at all elevations with new snow accumulations in the alpine up to 15 cm on Tuesday. Reactive storm slabs and wind slabs are building with continued snow and strong southwest winds. Ridgelines are heavily corniced and could act as a trigger on the slope below. <br />A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 120 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow overlies moist snow surfaces. At higher elevations, this overlies slabs formed from last weekends snow that fell with strong southwesterly winds. On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, recent rain has created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain and warming to ridge top elevations have created wet or moist snow in the top 20-30 cm of the snowpack that is likely to be covered by a light dusting of new snow by Wednesday morning. Only high alpine, north aspects (above 2000 m) may still be harboring dry snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rising freezing levels and daytime warming have created moist or wet snow surfaces on all but alpine, northerly aspects where 20 cm up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5 to 10 cm of new snow fell Saturday with moderate southerly wind. This snow rests on a crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Persistent slab avalanche activity on polar (north and east) aspects has dramatically decreased and solar (south and west) aspects are expected to be the most suspect over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow fell Saturday with light variable wind. This snow rests on crust that is present on all aspects below 2000 m, and extends up to about 2500 m on south facing aspects. The storm snow be sitting on surface hoar on polar aspects (north and east) at upper elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern is the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) which is now 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This layer is composed of a crust on all aspects at low elevations. At upper elevations the layer presents as a crust on solar aspects (those that face south and west) and buried surface hoar on polar aspects. The reactivity of this interface has been steadily decreasing and while the likelihood of triggering a deeper persistent slab avalanche is lowering, the consequence of doing so remains high. Persistent slab avalanche activity on polar (north and east) aspects has dramatically decreased and solar (south and west) aspects are expected to be the most suspect over the next few days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from January and December are still being reported by professional observers, but are generally considered dormant.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow is sitting on previous moist snow surfaces. Recent winds from the southeast and southwest have sifted the new snow, forming isolated wind slabs in leeward terrain features and slopes. With freezing levels rising, surface snow will likely become moist through the day. Up to 40 cm of snow that fell last weekend overlies melt-freeze crusts that formed over the past few weeks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A supportive melt/freeze crust was found on all aspects up to 2000m and even higher on solar aspects.  Good skiing with dry snow was found on due North aspects in sheltered areas above 2100m. It was a little bit of work to get to it because of the hard melt/freeze crust in the morning.  The beginning of corn snow was forming with the daytime heating in open terrain at lower elevations. The March 15th crust down 30 to 50cm on solar aspects  in isolated terrain is still a concern, thus approaching these slopes with caution is advised. Cornices are large and are feeling the heat of the April sun, and should be avoided.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain is now falling as snow at upper elevations building reactive storm slabs which sit over a predominant thick crust. It is difficult to predict where and when rain will switch to snow, but expect the transition to happen and by Wednesday and most precipitation will fall as snow above 1200 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At below treeline elevations, a spring snowpack exists. Rain has saturated and weakened the upper snowpack. Forecast rain will continue this trend. The mid and lower snowpack are strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2300 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, and there may be a bit of preserved cold snow on high elevation north facing features. There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, but they have not been problematic. Fresh wind slabs have started to form immediately lee of ridge crest, continued new snow and wind should fuel their development through the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it fail. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2000 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, and there may be a bit of preserved cold snow on high elevation north facing features. In the last few days wind slabs 10 to 50 cm in depth have formed in the alpine that sit on a mix of crusts and possibly surface hoar. Continued new snow and wind should fuel their development through the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Just under the wind slabs there are now a few different crusts, but they have not been problematic.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it fail. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rising freezing levels have caused the recent 25 cm of storm snow to become moist up to ridge top elevations, with minimal overnight re-freeze. Below 1400 m, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 100 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. Below this, the mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time.</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">Rising freezing levels have caused the recent 10-15 cm of storm snow to become moist up to about 2000 m, with minimal overnight re-freeze. Below 1400 m in some areas, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and rain have moistened the snow surface on all aspects and at all elevations with new snow accumulations in the alpine up to 15 cm. Reactive storm slabs and wind slabs are building with continued snow and strong southwest winds. Ridgelines are heavily corniced and if they fail they would act as a trigger on the slope below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 120 cm down. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"><br /></span><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow overlies moist snow surfaces. At higher elevations, this overlies slabs formed from last weekends snow that fell with strong southwesterly winds. On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, recent rain has created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain and warming to ridge top elevations have created wet or moist snow in the top 20-30 cm of the snowpack that is likely to be covered by 5-15 cm of new snow by Thursday morning. The new snow and strong southeasterly winds are expected to form fresh storm slabs reactive to human triggers. In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rising freezing levels and daytime warming have created moist or wet snow surfaces on all but alpine, northerly aspects where 20 cm up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2300 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, and there may be a bit of preserved cold snow on high elevation north facing features. There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, but they have not been problematic. Fresh wind slabs have started to form immediately lee of ridge crest, continued new snow and wind should fuel their development through the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it fail. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2000 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, and there may be a bit of preserved cold snow on high elevation north facing features. There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, but they have not been problematic. Fresh wind slabs have started to form immediately lee of ridge crest, continued new snow and wind should fuel their development through the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it fail. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of new snow is sitting on previous moist snow surfaces. Recent winds from the southeast and southwest have sifted the new snow, forming isolated wind slabs in leeward terrain features and slopes. With freezing levels rising, surface snow will likely become moist through the day. Up to 40 cm of snow that fell last weekend overlies melt-freeze crusts that formed over the past few weeks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A supportive melt/freeze crust was found on all aspects up to 2000m and even higher on solar aspects.  This crust did begin to break down later in the morning as temps warmed up.  Good skiing with dry snow was found on due North aspects in sheltered areas above 2100m. The beginning of corn snow was forming with the daytime heating in open terrain at lower elevations. The March 15th crust down 30 to 50cm on solar aspects in isolated terrain is still a concern, thus approaching these slopes with caution is advised. Cornices are large and are feeling the heat of the April sun, and should be avoided.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain is now falling as snow at upper elevations building reactive storm slabs which sit over a predominant thick crust. It is difficult to predict where and when rain will switch to snow, but expect the transition to happen and by Wednesday and most precipitation will fall as snow above 1300 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At below treeline elevations, a spring snowpack exists. Rain has saturated and weakened the upper snowpack. Forecast rain will continue this trend. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2300 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 5-15 cm of cold snow can be found on high elevation north facing aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the most recently crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think larger triggers such as; sleds, step-down from a surface avalanche or, a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2000 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 5-15 cm of cold snow can be found on high elevation north facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts within the top 40 cm of the snowpack, with only the mostly recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or cornice collapse)</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist snow up to ridge top elevations, with minimal overnight re-freeze. Below 1400 m, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 100 cm deep on north aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity on this layer. Below this, the mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust exists near the bottom of the snowpack, but this layer has been inactive for some time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist snow up to ridge top elevations, with minimal overnight re-freeze. Below 1400 m, rain has soaked the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Multiple crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on sheltered north aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures and rain have moistened the snow surface on all aspects and at all elevations with new snow accumulations in the alpine up to 15 cm and building. Reactive storm slabs and wind slabs are building with continued snow and strong southwest winds. Ridgelines are heavily corniced and if they fail they would act as a trigger on the slope below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 120 cm down. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m. Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of new snow overlies moist snow surfaces and is accumulating. At higher elevations, this overlies wind slabs formed from last weekends snow that fell with strong southwesterly winds. On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, recent rain has created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of new snow and strong southeasterly winds have formed fresh storm slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of new snow and strong southeasterly winds have formed fresh wind slabs on lee features at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and producing very large avalanches in northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2300 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 10-15 cm of cold snow can still be found on high elevation northerly facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the most recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2000 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 10-25 cm of cold snow can still be found on high elevation northerly facing aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the most recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30cm of moist new snow is sitting on previous moist or wet snow surfaces. Recent winds from the southeast and southwest have sifted the new snow, forming isolated wind slabs in leeward terrain features and slopes. With freezing levels rising, surface snow will likely become moist through the day. Up to 40 cm of snow that fell last weekend overlies melt-freeze crusts that formed over the past few weeks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10cm of new snow over the past 24hrs with only light easterly winds.  This new snow is overlying a widespread supportive melt freeze up to 2100m and up to the peaks on the solar aspects.  Windslabs are still being encountered along ridgelines and in cross loaded features.  Use caution in thinner or unsupported terrain near these areas.  The March 15th layer is down 50cm and is slowly gaining strength but we are still treating this layer cautiously.  Dig down and be curious with it and evaluate it before committing.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy precipitation is forecast Friday. If it falls as snow at upper elevations, it will build reactive storm slabs which sit over a predominant thick crust. It is difficult to predict where and when rain will switch to snow, but expect the transition to happen as you approach mountain top.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, a spring snowpack exists. Rain has saturated upper snowpack. Forecast rain will continue this trend. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2300 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 5-15 cm of cold snow can be found on high elevation north facing aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the most recently crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 110 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think larger triggers such as; sleds, step-down from a surface avalanche or, a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2000 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 5-25 cm of cold snow can be found on high elevation north facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts within the top 40 cm of the snowpack, with only the mostly recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 40 to 90 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or cornice collapse)</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of recent storm and moderate winds have formed wind slabs sitting on hard crusts on lee features at treeline and above which may be reactive to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are some reports of a surface hoar layer roughly 100 cm deep on sheltered northerly aspects at treeline, but no recent avalanche activity has been reported on this layer. Below this, the mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust can be found near the bottom of the snowpack which has been inactive for some time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm recent storm snow and moderate variable winds have formed small wind slabs on a variety of aspects sitting on hard crusts on lee features at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Numerous crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on sheltered northerly aspects at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-25cm of new snow Friday has been redistributed by strong to extreme southwest winds. Reactive storm slabs and wind slabs built with continued snow and wind over the past 2 days. Ridgelines are heavily corniced and if they fail they would act as a trigger on the slope below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 120 cm down. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m. Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of new snow overlies moist snow surfaces. At higher elevations, this overlies wind slabs formed from last weekends snow that fell with strong southwesterly winds. On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, recent rain has created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of recent storm snow and strong variable winds have formed wind slabs on a variety of aspects at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of recent storm snow and strong southeasterly winds have formed fresh wind slabs on lee features at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and produced very large avalanches in the far northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2300 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 20-30 cm of cold snow can still be found on high elevation northerly facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the upper, most-recently buried crust posing a concern with new snow in wind-loaded areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 70 to 110 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A thin surface crust is now present on all aspects to at least 2000 m. This crust likely goes even higher on south facing aspects, while 10-25 cm of cold snow can still be found on high elevation northerly facing aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the upper, most-recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 100 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive last week, but has not produced any avalanche activity in the last few days. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30cm of moist new snow is sitting on previous moist snow or crust surfaces . Recent winds from the southeast and southwest have sifted the new snow, forming isolated wind slabs in leeward terrain features and slopes. With freezing levels rising, surface snow will likely become moist through the day. The mid and lower snowpack is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">SW winds increased in alpine overnight and into the morning building windslabs up to 20cm thick in lee features. Recent snow is overlying a supportive MFC that is 4-6cm thick up to 2200m. All aspects were moist up to 2000m by midday and moist snow suspected up to the peaks on solar. Hard sudden planar  results on the March 15th crust down 50cm at 2200m on a SE aspect at treeline.  Start early when travel on the crusts is good and fast</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy precipitation is forecast Friday afternoon and evening. If it falls as snow at upper elevations, it will build reactive storm slabs which sit over a predominant thick crust for Saturday. It is difficult to predict where and when rain will switch to snow, but expect the transition to happen as you approach mountain top.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, a spring snowpack exists. Rain has saturated upper snowpack. Forecast rain will continue this trend. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10-20 cm of new snow overlies a crust on all aspects to at least 2300 m (and possibly higher on south-facing slopes), while 30-45 cm of storm snow can be found at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the most recently crust posing a concern for the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 70 to 120 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive but has not produced any avalanche activity in the past week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think larger triggers such as; sleds, step-down from a surface avalanche or, a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are considered dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5-15 cm on new snow overlies a crust on all aspects to at least 2000 m (and possibly higher on south-facing slopes), while 20-30 cm can be found at higher elevations (and up to 50 cm in some areas in the northwest of the region). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts within the top 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the mostly recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 50 to 90 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive but has produced only isolated avalanche activity in last week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or cornice collapse)</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are considered dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of recent storm snow and moderate winds have formed wind slabs sitting on hard crusts on lee features at treeline and above which may be reactive to human triggers. The upper snowpack contains numerous crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust can be found near the bottom of the snowpack which has been inactive for some time. This layer may be triggered by large triggers, such as a falling cornice, or by a major warm-up to the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm recent storm snow and moderate variable winds have formed small wind slabs on a variety of aspects sitting on hard crusts on lee features at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Numerous crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 to 40 cm of new snow between Thursday and Saturday has been redistributed by strong south winds, forming reactive storm and wind slabs up to 1 m deep.  Ridgelines are heavily corniced and if they fail they could trigger slabs on slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 140 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution but has recently produced large avalanches. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 30 to 50 cm of snow has fallen in the region between Thursday and Saturday.  This snow overlies a thick and hard melt-freeze crust.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile. At low elevations below treeline, recent rain has created moist or wet snow conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. This layer is spotty in its distribution. It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of recent storm snow and strong variable winds have formed wind slabs on a variety of aspects at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of recent storm snow and strong southeasterly winds have formed fresh wind slabs on lee features at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crust layers on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, weak and sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slabs have stepped down to these facets and produced very large avalanches in the far northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 15-25 cm of new snow overlies a crust on all aspects to at least 2300 m (and possibly higher on south aspects). While 30-50 cm of storm snow can be found at higher elevations in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the upper, most-recently buried crust posing a concern with new storm snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 70 to 120 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive but has not produced any avalanche in the past week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are generally considered dormant at this time but may be starting to become reactive to large triggers, such as a cornice collapse.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow covers a supportive crust on all aspects to at least 2100 m (and possibly higher on south aspects), while 20-40 cm of storm snow can be found at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack, with only the upper, most-recently buried crust posing a concern with the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 60 to 140 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely but has not produced any avalanche activity in the past week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January may be starting to become reactive to very large triggers. A recent cornice collapse is believe to have initiated a slab release on an early season layer, 300 cm deep. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 50 cm of recent snow sits on a hard melt-freeze crust.  Strong south winds formed wind slabs in lee terrain features at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">SW winds increased in alpine overnight and into the morning building windslabs 20-25cm thick in lee features in the Alpine and treeline. The recent snow (10-15cm at treeline and above on Saturday and 10cm on Friday) is overlying a supportive MFC that is 4-6cm thick up to 2200m and up to the peaks on solar aspects We are finding good &quot;dust on crust&quot; skiing on top of this crust. Corncies are LARGE right now and a few have collapsed recently with the warmer weather. Start early and be home early before the snow begins to melt and settle and loose stability in the warmer temps or the solar radiation. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 mm of rain fell at lower elevations on Friday night.  Some or all of this precipitation likely fell as snow at higher elevations, building reactive storm slabs that sit on a thick crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, a spring snowpack exists. Rain has saturated the upper snowpack. Forecasted rain will continue this trend.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 20-40 cm of new snow overlies a crust on all aspects to at least 2300 m (and possibly higher on south-facing slopes), while 50-60 cm of storm snow can be found at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper snowpack, with only the most recently crust posing a concern for the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 80 to 120 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive but has not produced any avalanche activity in the past week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think larger triggers such as; sleds, step-down from a surface avalanche or, a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are considered dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10-20 cm on new snow overlies a crust on all aspects to at least 2000 m (and possibly higher on south-facing slopes), while 20-30 cm can be found at higher elevations (and up to 60 cm in some areas in the northwest of the region). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts within the upper snowpack, with only the mostly recently buried crust posing a concern in wind-loaded areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 50 to 90 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive but has produced only isolated avalanche activity in last week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or cornice collapse)</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are considered dormant at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of new snow and moderate winds have formed storm slabs reactive to human triggers. This storm snow overlies numerous crusts in the upper 100 cm of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid-pack is generally well settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A layer of sugary facets around a crust can be found near the bottom of the snowpack which has been dormant for some time. Large triggers, such as a falling cornice, or a major warm-up to the snowpack could trigger this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15 cm of new snow and moderate winds have formed fresh storm slabs which are most reactive in wind effected terrain. These storm slabs overlie numerous crusts within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A well settled mid-pack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 to 40 cm of recent snow has been redistributed by strong south winds, forming reactive wind slabs up to 1 m deep in lee terrain features.  Sun, rain, and warm air temperatures on Sunday moistened the snow surface, which will freeze into a melt-freeze crust on all aspects up to at least 1800 m.  Snowfall on Monday will fall on these surfaces.  Ridgelines are heavily corniced and if they fail they could trigger slabs on slopes below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 60 to 140 cm. Although this layer is spotty in its distribution and avalanches haven’t been reported on it since early April, professionals are treating it seriously and avoiding terrain because of it.  It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 to 50 cm of recent snow has been redistributed by strong south winds, forming reactive wind slabs up to 1 m deep in lee terrain features.  Sun, rain, and warm air temperatures on Sunday moistened the snow surface, which will freeze into a melt-freeze crust on all aspects up to at least 1800 m.  Snowfall on Monday will fall on these surfaces.  On ridges, cornices are reported to be large and fragile.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer consisting of surface hoar, facets, and/or a melt-freeze crust from late March is now buried about 50 to 100 cm. Although this layer is spotty in its distribution and avalanches haven’t been reported on it since early April, professionals are treating it seriously and avoiding terrain because of it.  It is mostly likely to be problematic on west, north, and east aspects between 1900 m and 2250 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well-settled and strong.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of recent storm snow and strong variable winds have formed wind slabs on a variety of aspects at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region, two layers of surface hoar are buried approximately 70-100 cm deep. The layers are most prominent on north to east aspects and were buried early-March and mid-March. In the north of the region, these layers are around 40 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Bellow these March layers the mid-pack is generally well-settled and strong. However, shallower parts of the region, such as the far north, have weak sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lingering wind slabs on convex features below ridgetops may still be reactive to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak layers buried around March 19th are roughly 40 cm below the surface (up to 100 cm in deeper snowpack areas). These weak layers include surface hoar on shaded aspects at high elevations and hard crusts on solar aspects and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the bottom of the snowpack, sugary facets are found in shallow, rocky snowpack areas. Storm slab avalanches have &quot;stepped-down&quot; to these facets and produced very large avalanches in the far northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 15-30 cm of new snow overlies a crust on all aspects to at least 2300 m (and possibly higher on south aspects). While 40-50 cm of storm snow can be found at higher elevations in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper snowpack, with only the upper, most-recently buried crust posing a concern with recent storm snow at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 80 to 120 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely reactive but has not produced any avalanche in the past week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January are generally considered dormant at this time but may be starting to become reactive to large triggers, such as a cornice collapse.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10-20 cm of new snow covers a supportive crust on all aspects to at least 2100 m (and possibly higher on south aspects), while 30-60 cm of storm snow can be found at higher elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are now a few different crusts in the upper snowpack, with only the upper, most-recently buried crust posing a concern with the recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is some lingering concern around the mid-March Persistent Weak Layer (PWL) in the alpine where it is found 100 to 150 cm below the surface. This buried crust/surface hoar interface was widely but has not produced any avalanche activity in the past week. It is likely trending towards dormancy, but we need to keep it in the back of our minds as it is capable of producing large avalanches should it be triggered (think step-down from a surface avalanche or a cornice collapse).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper persistent weak layers from December and January may be starting to become reactive to very large triggers. A recent cornice collapse is believe to have initiated a slab release on an early season layer, 300 cm deep. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs may linger in lee alpine terrain features, which were produced from strong south winds. Rain to at least 1800 m produced wet snow on all aspects, which will freeze into a melt-freeze crust at higher elevations. New snow will fall on these surfaces. Numerous other melt-freeze crusts exist in the upper snowpack from rain, sun, and warming over the past month. The snowpack below this is generally well-settled and strong.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations below treeline, a spring snowpack exists.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 40cm of storm snow in the last 48hr is settling rapidly. This storm snow was settling into a soft slab at tree line and above and overlies a melt/freeze on solar aspects.. Moist snow was encountered at 2100m.&nbsp; Even with a cloudy day forecast for Monday, expect the solar radiation to come through and affect the snow on solar aspects.&nbsp; Carefully evaluate the slopes at tree line and in the alpine for slabs.&nbsp; If the solar radiation is strong or if the sun poles out, expect loose wet avalanches to occur. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </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">Snowfall forecasted Sunday night into Monday will form new storm slabs.  The new snow will fall on a sun crust on southerly aspects formed by Sunday’s sunshine.   Elsewhere, the snow will overlie storm slabs formed on Friday or wind slabs formed from strong south winds.  A thick melt-freeze crust exists below this, and is about 40 to 60 cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below about 1000 m, a spring snowpack exists.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-80 cm of recent snow sits on two layers of feathery surface hoar that are approximately buried 15 cm apart. One or both of these may be associated with a crust on south aspects. The surface hoar is mostly found at treeline, but it may be found in sheltered alpine areas. Snowpack test results on these layers are showing a variety of planar results which indicate that this interface may be susceptible to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust that formed near the end of October. This crust is associated with sugary weak faceted crystals and has shown some reactivity in the South Columbia region. Suspect slopes and terrain are open bowls that host a rocky thin to thick snowpack in the alpine or upper treeline. Snowpack depths taper quickly with elevation, many areas have over 200 cm in the alpine, between 100-170 cm at treeline, and 10-100 cm below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Check out the </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/blogs?category=forecaster+blog" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">FORECASTER BLOG</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> as it will express our uncertainties with the current snowpack in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The early season snowpack is highly variable in this region. Approximately 20 cm of recent snow fell earlier this week which may have been blown into wind slabs on exposed northerly and northeasterly slopes. Expect loose dry, unconsolidated snow sluffing from steeper, rocky terrain features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some places, there are two layers of feathery surface hoar being reported, one around 20 cm below the surface and one down 35 cm. One or both of these may be associated with a crust on south aspects. The most likely places to trigger one of these layers is in deeper snow areas in shady spots on smooth slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A prominent feature of the snowpack is a combination of a crust and underlying sugary, faceted snow found near the base of the snowpack. It may be possible to release an avalanche on smooth slopes in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 7 cm of snow overnight adding to the 55 cm of recent storm snow that fell earlier this week. Recent south and southwest winds have formed pockets of wind slab on leeward terrain, however the winds have switched to a northerly direction and are potentially redistributing the new snow on opposite. slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts and a feathery surface hoar layer. We have a lot of uncertainty around this weak layer, its distribution is spotty. I suspect it could exist on sheltered slopes in the alpine and at treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack a melt-freeze crust exists at treeline and into the alpine on all aspects. Reports indicate that the slab above this crust may be more reactive on northeasterly aspects. I would investigate this bond before jumping onto large, planar terrain features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the bottom of the snowpack you'll likely find melt-freeze crusts and sugary weak facet crystals. At treeline the average snowpack depths are 80 cm. These depths taper rapidly at lower elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Check out the new forecaster blog post </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/blogs?category=forecaster+blog" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">&quot;The Buzz&quot;.</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> Discussing uncertainty with what lies beneath...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent new snow up to 20 cm and southwest winds have formed pockets of wind slab on leeward terrain, however the winds have switched to a northeasterly direction. Below the surface exists a series of crusts and a feathery surface hoar layer. We have a lot of uncertainty around this weak layer and its distribution. If you were to find it, I suspect it could exist on sheltered slopes in the alpine and at treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mixed layer melt-freeze crusts and sugary facets buried late October can be found at the base of the snowpack at treeline and in the alpine. This layer has not been active, but there is potential for slab avalanches on this layer given the current snowpack structure. I suspect its likely found in terrain features like smooth alpine bowls with variable snowpack depths. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at treeline are near 50 cm and taper quickly as elevation decreases. Snow depths below tree line are generally below the threshold depth to produce avalanche.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The storm from early last week brought intense precipitation that rain-soaked the existing snowpack up to about 1800 m and left 20 to 30 cm of wet snow in place up to 2000 m. Above 2000 m the storm produced around 60 cm of new snow. The upper 20 to 30 cm of snow is reportedly dry in the alpine. Strong to extreme wind during the storm formed storm slabs and cornices in high elevation alpine terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Above 2000 m, 50 to 200 cm of snow now sits on the early November melt-freeze crust. Little is known about the reactivity of this interface in the alpine. This crust may be associated with weak faceted crystals in some places where it lies close to the ground. This is most likely to cause problems in glaciated terrain or on smoother, high elevation slopes where the summer snow did not melt out.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm from early last week produced ample precipitation, however it mostly fell as rain. Extreme out of the south and southwest likely produced widespread cornices and wind slabs in lee terrain during the storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/123d0050-6ad8-4717-af91-7fde0857e722" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">A MIN from Friday</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> suggests that it's skiable from about 1600 metres on up. Between 1600 and 2000 m there is 5 to 10 cm of low density snow over a 5 cm breakable crust. Above 2000m is reportedly skiing well and alpine snowpack depths are approaching 175 cm. Near the ground there is a crust/facet interface, but little is known about the reactivity of this layer. It is thought that there is insufficient snow for avalanches below 1500 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">We currently have very limited snowpack observations, so it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">In many areas, other than the highest accessible alpine areas, the entire snowpack may be moist. As temperatures are cooling, the snowpack is beginning to freeze from the surface downwards. Some reports indicate there may be an early season crust near the bottom of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is an average of 70-120 cm of snow in the alpine. This decreases dramatically with elevation where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">There is up to 20 cm of recent storm snow sitting on a crust at upper elevations. Expect to find an early season crust near the bottom of the snowpack in many areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Recent reports suggest there is an average of 60-120 cm of snow in the alpine. This decreases dramatically with elevation where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">We currently have very limited snowpack observations, so it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent storm snow amounts range from 40-80 cm. There may be some lingering wind slaps in exposed, alpine terrain, but the primary concern in the snowpack is a weak layer of surface hoar (feathery crystals) and/or sun crust depending on the aspect of the terrain. This layer is below the recent storm snow and is down roughly 30-70 cm. The surface hoar is most pronounced at treeline, but it may be found in sheltered, north facing alpine areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">At the base of the snowpack is a crust that formed in late October. There have been no recent reports in this region of reactivity on this layer. However, the South Columbia region has had two large avalanches on this layer, one triggered by a snowmobile and the other a bomb. Steep, rocky terrain, with a shallow snowpack are the most likely areas to trigger this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Total snowpack depths vary greatly with elevation. Recent reports show depths of 120-230cm in the alpine, 90-160 cm at treeline and 10-120 cm below treeline. Rocks, stumps, and open creeks remain significant hazards at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Check out our latest </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/blogs/the-buzz" target="_blank"><span class="s_69909980">FORECASTER BLOG</span></a><span class="s_1681A555"> for more insight into the uncertainty we have with the surface hoar layer in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Where to start? Lets mix it up and start with alpine windslabs. These are widespread in distribution, but the density will vary with exposure to wind. Expect harder slabs in gullies and immediate lee areas. Next, we'll tackle treeline windslabs. Like the alpine, these will be found near ridges and gullies, but expect them to quickly fade as you move away from  the treeline/alpine border. Lastly, lets chat about the Oct 26 layer. This is widespread, but its condition seems to vary from area to area. In some places it is complete garbage- a collection of facets and depth hoar waiting to crumble. In others, it's still intact and even supportive. The bottom line? Dig to check it out.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The warm storm from early last week produced over 200 mm of precipitation that mostly fell as rain. Extreme winds out of the south/southwest likely produced weak cornices along many ridgelines during the storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Alpine areas near Squamish have the most snow, with around 70 cm of settled snow on the ground. In the alpine, there may be a crust lower in the snowpack. It is thought that there is insufficient snow for avalanches below 1500 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-80 cm of recent snow sits on two layers of feathery surface hoar that are approximately buried 15 cm apart. One or both of these may be associated with a crust on south aspects. The surface hoar is mostly found at treeline, but it may be found in sheltered alpine areas. Snowpack test results on these layers are showing a variety of planar results which indicate that this interface may be susceptible to human triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust that formed near the end of October. This crust is associated with sugary weak faceted crystals and has shown some reactivity in the South Columbia region. Suspect slopes and terrain are open bowls that host a rocky thin to thick snowpack in the alpine or upper treeline. Snowpack depths taper quickly with elevation, many areas have over 200 cm in the alpine, between 100-170 cm at treeline, and 10-100 cm below treeline.</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 early season snowpack is highly variable in this region. Approximately 20 cm of recent snow fell earlier this week which may have been blown into wind slabs on exposed northerly and northeasterly slopes. Expect loose dry, unconsolidated snow sluffing from steeper, rocky terrain features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some places, there are two layers of feathery surface hoar being reported, one around 20 cm below the surface and one down 35 cm. One or both of these may be associated with a crust on south aspects. The most likely places to trigger one of these layers is in deeper snow areas in shady spots on smooth slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A prominent feature of the snowpack is a combination of a crust and underlying sugary, faceted snow found near the base of the snowpack. It may be possible to release an avalanche on smooth slopes in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 55 cm of recent snow sits on a series of crusts and a feathery surface hoar layer. A predominant crust can be found below this recent snow at treeline and into the alpine on all aspects. Reports indicate that the slab above this crust may be more reactive on northerly aspects. I would investigate this bond before jumping onto large, planar terrain features. We have a lot of uncertainty around this weak surface hoar layer, its distribution is spotty. I suspect that it could exist on sheltered slopes in the alpine and at treeline. At the bottom of the snowpack you'll likely find another crust and sugary weak facet crystals around it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At treeline the average snowpack depths are 80 cm. These depths taper rapidly at lower elevations.</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">The region received up to 20 cm of snow over the past week. Isolated pockets of stiff wind slab may exist on leeward slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts and a feathery surface hoar layer. We have a lot of uncertainty around the weak surface hoar layer and its distribution. I suspect it could exist on sheltered slopes in the alpine and at treeline. A mixed layer of melt-freeze crusts and sugary facets buried late October can be found at the base of the snowpack at treeline and in the alpine. This layer has not been active, but there is potential for slab avalanches on this layer given the current snowpack structure. Terrain features like smooth alpine bowls with variable snowpack depths would be most suspect.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at treeline are near 50 cm and taper quickly as elevation decreases. Snow depths below tree line are generally below the threshold depth to produce avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The storm from early last week brought intense precipitation that rain-soaked the snowpack up to about 1800 m and left 20 to 30 cm of wet snow in place up to 2000 m. Above 2000 m the storm produced around 60 cm of new snow. The upper 20 to 30 cm of this snow is reportedly dry in the alpine. Strong to extreme south winds during the storm left behind thick wind slabs and fragile new cornice growth in high elevation alpine terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Above 2000 m, 50 to 200 cm of snow now sits on the early November melt-freeze crust. This crust may be associated with weak faceted crystals in some places where it lies close to the ground. This is most likely to cause problems in glaciated terrain or on smoother, high elevation slopes where the summer snow did not melt out.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm from early last week produced ample precipitation, however it mostly fell as rain. Extreme out of the south and southwest likely produced widespread cornices and wind slabs in lee terrain during the storm. These problems are expected to be on a positive track toward stabilizing.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/123d0050-6ad8-4717-af91-7fde0857e722" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">A MIN from Friday</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> suggests that it's skiable from about 1600 metres on up. Between 1600 and 2000 m there is 5 to 10 cm of low density snow over a 5 cm breakable crust. Above 2000m is reportedly skiing well and alpine snowpack depths are approaching 175 cm. Near the ground there is a crust/facet interface. Although little is known about the reactivity of this layer, recent observations in the north of the region show that it was reactive during last week's storm. It is thought that there is insufficient snow for avalanches below 1500 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">10-15 cm of recent storm snow is sitting on a thick, hard crust. Some reports indicate there may be an early season crust near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is an average of 70-120 cm of snow in the alpine. This decreases dramatically with elevation where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">We currently have very limited snowpack observations, so it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">There is up to 20 cm of recent storm snow sitting on a hard crust at upper elevations. Expect to find an early season crust near the bottom of the snowpack in many areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Recent reports suggest there is an average of 60-120 cm of snow in the alpine. This decreases dramatically with elevation where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">We currently have very limited snowpack observations, so it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There may be some lingering wind slaps in exposed, alpine terrain, but the primary concern in the snowpack is a weak layer of surface hoar (feathery crystals) and/or sun crust depending on the aspect of the terrain. This layer is down 30-70 cm and has been described as 'spotty' with regards to its distribution. It is most pronounced at treeline, but may be found in sheltered, north facing alpine areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">At the base of the snowpack is a crust that formed in late October. There have been no recent reports in this region of reactivity on this layer. However, the South Columbia region has had two large avalanches on this layer, one triggered by a snowmobile and the other a bomb. Steep, rocky terrain, with a shallow snowpack are the most likely areas to trigger this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Total snowpack depths vary greatly with elevation. Recent reports show depths of 120-230cm in the alpine, 90-160 cm at treeline and 10-120 cm below treeline. Rocks, stumps, and open creeks remain significant hazards at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Check out our latest </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/blogs/the-buzz" target="_blank"><span class="s_69909980">FORECASTER BLOG</span></a><span class="s_1681A555"> for more insight into the uncertainty we have with the surface hoar layer in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm last weekend delivered 20 to 40 cm of snow that has settled out to about 30 cm of soft snow on the surface. At treeline, the total height of snow is now between 100 and 140 cm. At 40 to 80 cm below the surface there is a persistent weak layer that was buried on November 21st. This weak layer consists of surface hoar (feathery crystals) in most places, but may present as a sun crust on steep south facing slopes. This layer has been reactive in snowpack tests this week. A MIN report from the Kootenay Pass area </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/7b449a3e-4c92-4714-8908-2520b352f364" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">(link here)</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> and a social media post </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/KootenayBackcountryGuides/videos/vb.1576889842619599/332746360841352/?type=2&amp;theater" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">(link here)</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> from the Whitewater area on Thursday also show a concerning degree of reactivity at this layer. This surface hoar is thought to be widespread at treeline and it may be found in sheltered alpine features too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a thick melt-freeze crust that formed near the end of October. This crust has shown limited reactivity thus far, but observations are very limited.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 5cm of new snow fell Saturday night through to Sunday morning. Unfortunately this did little to improve the snowpack. For the rest of the snowpack.....hmmmm. Where to start? Lets mix it up and start with alpine windslabs. These are widespread in distribution, but the density will vary with exposure to wind. Expect harder slabs in gullies and immediate lee areas. Next, we'll tackle treeline windslabs. Like the alpine, these will be found near ridges and gullies, but expect them to quickly fade as you move away from the treeline/alpine border. Lastly, lets chat about the Oct 26 layer. This is widespread, but its condition seems to vary from area to area. In some places it is complete garbage- a collection of facets and depth hoar waiting to crumble. In others, it's still intact and even supportive. The bottom line? Dig to check it out.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The warm storm early last week produced over 200 mm of precipitation that mostly fell as rain. This rain washed away much of the snowpack at lower elevations. The highest alpine terrain in the region more likely received heavy snowfall during the storm. This snowfall, paired with extreme winds out of the south/southwest is likely to have produced cornice growth along many ridgelines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Alpine areas near Squamish have the most snow, with around 70 cm of settled snow on the ground. In these areas there may be a crust lower in the snowpack, however it is likely now well bonded to the overlying storm snow. It is thought that there is insufficient snow for avalanches below 1500 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-80 cm of recent snow sits on two layers of surface hoar (weak feathery crystals) that are buried approximately 15-20 cm apart. These layers have both been associated with a sun crust on steeper south facing slopes. The surface hoar is mostly found at treeline, but it may be found in sheltered alpine areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust that formed near the end of October. This crust is associated with weak, faceted (sugary) snow and has shown some reactivity in the region. This layer is most prominent in the alpine but may exist into upper treeline elevations as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths taper quickly with elevation, many areas have over 200 cm in the alpine, between 100-170 cm at treeline, and 10-100 cm below treeline.</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 early season snowpack is highly variable in the Purcells. Approximately 20 cm of snow fell last week which may have been blown into wind slabs on exposed northerly and northeasterly slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two layers of surface hoar (weak feathery crystals) being reported in the top 35-40cm. The surface hoar is most prominent at treeline, but it may be found in sheltered alpine areas. Both of these layers may be associated with a sun crust on south aspects in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In shallow snowpack areas, the bottom half of the snowpack is reportedly weak and &quot;hollow&quot; feeling on shady aspects due to sugary, faceted snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A prominent feature of the snowpack is a combination of a crust and faceted (sugary) snow found at or near the base of the snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 55 cm of recent snow sits on a combination of crust and surface hoar. The crust is most prevalent at and above treeline and is likely most problematic on north facing features, especially those that are large and planar in nature.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface hoar is tricky to pin down because it is quite spotty in distribution, but it appears to be most prevalent on sheltered slopes at and above treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the bottom of the snowpack lies another crust with weak sugary facets around it.  There is a great MIN Report </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/e4810306-5cfd-4874-8ac3-e85ce56c709a" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> that provides a good visual representation of the current snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At treeline the average snowpack depth is 80 cm, with only thin coverage at lower elevation. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region received up to 20 cm of snow over the past week. Isolated pockets of stiff wind slab may exist on leeward slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts and a feathery surface hoar layer. We have a lot of uncertainty around the weak surface hoar layer and its distribution. I suspect it could exist on sheltered slopes in the alpine and at treeline. A mixed layer of melt-freeze crusts and sugary facets buried late October can be found at the base of the snowpack at treeline and in the alpine. This layer has not been active, but there is potential for slab avalanches on this layer given the current snowpack structure. Terrain features like smooth alpine bowls with variable snowpack depths would be most suspect.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at treeline are near 50 cm and taper quickly as elevation decreases. Snow depths below tree line are generally below the threshold depth to produce avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Days of cool, clear weather have grown a widespread new layer of feathery surface hoar crystals on the snow surface. Below the surface, the same cold has been transforming the storm snow from last week into a layer of faceted (sugary) snow. This layer of faceting storm snow increases in depth from about 20 cm at 1800-2000 metres, where it sits above a strong rain crust, to upwards of 30-40 cm in the alpine above 2000 metres, where the crust is not present. Here, the storm snow shows good signs of bonding well to the now well-settled mid snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Above 2000 m, about 50-150 cm of snow now sits on the early November melt-freeze crust. This crust may be layered with weak faceted crystals in places where it lies close to the ground. This is most likely to cause problems in glaciated terrain or on smoother, high elevation slopes where the summer snow did not melt out.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Days of increasingly cool and clear weather have likely grown a new layer of feathery surface hoar crystals on the snow surface in most areas. Below the surface, it can be said with more certainty that the same cold has been transforming the storm snow from last week into a layer of faceted (sugary) snow. This layer of faceting storm snow increases in depth from about 5-10 cm at 1600-2000 metres, where it sits above a rain crust, to around 20-30 cm in the alpine above 2000 metres, where the crust may not be present. Here, the storm snow is suspected to be bonding well to a settled mid snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Above 2000m, alpine snowpack depths are approaching 175 cm, although recent reports suggest about half these depths around treeline in the south of the region. A crust/facet interface can be found near the ground in the alpine, but this may again be most prevalent in the north of the region. Although little is known about the reactivity of this layer, recent observations in the north of the region show that it was reactive during last week's storm. It is thought that there is generally insufficient snow for avalanches below 1500 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar is beginning to form on the surface as indicated in this </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/e51bd0b9-5ad0-4907-ba62-1d5f7ad8e0a6" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> from the adjacent Northwest Inland region. 10-15 cm of recent storm snow is sitting on a thick, hard crust. In some locations there is an early season crust with facets near the bottom of the snowpack. Check out this </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/193d5dc9-b728-433a-8a83-2f117facde1c" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> from the Anderson Cabin near Terrace.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is an average of 70-120 cm of snow in the alpine. This decreases dramatically with elevation where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps and open creeks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We currently have very limited snowpack observations, so it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface Hoar is beginning to form on the surface as indicated by this </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/e51bd0b9-5ad0-4907-ba62-1d5f7ad8e0a6" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. There is up to 20 cm of recent storm snow sitting on a hard crust at upper elevations. Expect to find an early season crust near the bottom of the snowpack in many areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent reports suggest there is an average of 60-120 cm of snow in the alpine. This decreases dramatically with elevation where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We currently have very limited snowpack observations, so it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>