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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 20-50cm of fresh snow in the past four days has added to the 40-80cm of settled recent storm snow. Southerly winds have formed touchy slabs at upper elevations with multiple weaknesses within and under this recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warming temperatures on Sunday into Monday has resulted in moist (read: heavy) surface snow up to 1800m in most areas, and some unstable snow below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this snow is bonding poorly to weak faceted snow and small surface hoar on sheltered shady slopes, and/or a thin crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried mid-February is lurking down 70-120 cm and composed of a thick rain crust as high as about 2000 m, sun crusts on steep southerly aspects, and spotty surface hoar on shaded aspects. This layer has produced easy results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February (around a metre deep), and mid-January (well over a metre deep primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still sensitive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A warm wet storm will form fresh slabs at higher elevations while rain with fall below treeline. Strong winds will load lee features and continue to grow large cornices on alpine ridges. March has delivered regular storms with roughly 80-120 cm of snow sitting above crust and facet interfaces from February. Little is known about the distribution and reactivity of these interfaces. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and can produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls, rapid warming, or strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warm, wet, and windy storm will form fresh wind slabs at higher elevations while rain with fall below treeline. March has delivered regular storms with roughly 50-90 cm of snow sitting above crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas the snow above these interfaces may have a poor bond. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack in this region is generally strong, but the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. This remains a concern and should be on your radar, especially with the recent loading and ongoing warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Roughly 10 cm of new, wind affected snow lies over temperature affected surfaces below about 1700 metres over and wind affected surfaces at treeline and above. Below the surface, a wide-ranging 30-150 cm of layered recent storm snow has settled into a slab over the mid-February interface. In heavily wind affected areas this interface may present at the snow surface or as deep as 200 cm. With 5-20 cm of faceted, sugary snow above it, this mid-February layer continues to produce easy, sudden results in snowpack tests and remains a primary stability concern. We remain in an ongoing incremental loading scenario where even as this layer slowly heals, it is continually tested as new snow and wind load the snowpack. Below the crust layer, 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">A week of stormy weather has brought 80-120 cm of recent snow to the north of the region and roughly 150 cm to the south. Recent south to southwest winds have redistributed much of this snow in wind-exposed terrain, forming storm slabs and wind slabs on the surface. More recent accumulations have proven especially reactive over a sun crust found down roughly 30 cm on solar aspects in the north of the region. The above mentioned storm snow overlies the mid-February and late-February interfaces, which lie relatively close together in the snowpack. The late-February interface consists of wind affected surfaces in exposed terrain, sun crust on steep solar aspects, and facets and surface hoar in sheltered areas. The mid-February interface consists of a thick rain crust which extends to at least treeline, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and in many places, a layer of facets overlying the crust. Recent snowpack observations and avalanche activity suggest both of these layers remain reactive in the north of region but may now be unreactive in the south of the region. Below these layers, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm slabs will continue to grow on Tuesday with another 20-40 cm of snow and strong winds in the forecast. This comes in the wake of Sunday's 30-60 cm storm. The overall results will be widespread touchy storm slabs at higher elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. The storm snow is also stressing a weak </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">interface from February composed of </span><span class="s_3FE45715">facets, crust, and surface hoar </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">buried over a metre deep</span><span class="s_3FE45715">. Given the recent activity on this layer before the storm, it should be very reactive during this storm. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is strong, with the exception of basal facets in shallow snowpack areas around Bear Pass and Ningunsaw.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another 5-15 cm and strong winds will continue to build storm slabs after Sunday's storm delivered 15-30 cm. Warm temperatures will make touchy slabs at higher elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. A weak interface that was buried in late February may finally have enough snow above it to form a reactive slab. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-80 cm deep. There's uncertainty about the distribution and reactivity of this interface. The mid-pack is well consolidated and sits above weak sugary snow near the ground. The deeper basal weakness remain a concern in thin rocky start zones and shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 40-60cm of fresh snow has fallen over the past four days (with light to moderate southerly winds). Touchy storm slabs can be found at all elevations with weaknesses within and under this recent snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warming temperatures on Sunday into Monday has resulted in moist (read: heavy) surface snow up to 1800m in most areas, and unstable snow below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new snow is bonding slowly to faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried mid-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of a thick rain crust as high as about 1800 m, sun crusts on steep southerly aspects, and spotty surface hoar on shaded aspects. Recent reports show the bond to this interface becoming more variable.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. The deep mid-December facet layer still lingers in the northern part of the region near Valemount.</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">A week of stormy weather has brought 70-120 cm of storm snow to the region. Recent moderate to strong southwest winds have redistributed much of this storm snow into touchy slabs at all elevations. A recently formed melt-freeze crust may now be found down 10-15 cm on all aspects up to about 1800 metres, and likely higher on solar aspects. Aside from wind effect, time and warming temperatures have allowed the above mentioned storm snow to settle into a slab that sits over the late-February interface. This layer is composed of sun crust, surface hoar, and weak faceted snow and continues to produce easy, sudden results in snowpack tests. The thick mid-February crust layer is now down 90-135 cm and exists on solar aspects and at lower elevations. This layer appears to have gone dormant but is still being tracked for its potential to be woken up by the current warming event. In most deeper snowpack areas, the snowpack is generally well settled and stable below this crust layer. However, some areas have a lingering basal weakness at the bottom of the snowpack. This is especially prevalent in shallow snowpack areas (less than ~200 cm).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 5cm of new snow fell in the past 24hrs. Wind slabs are present at Treeline and above on all aspects and seem sensitive to human-triggering. Forecasters observed isolated cracking in steep and unsupported convex roles at Treeline today. The biggest concern is the weak basal layers that exist throughout the region. These layers just simply cannot be trusted and all larger features should just be avoided until we go through a few solid melt freeze cycles. Thin melt freeze crusts are being found on solar aspects up to 2400m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy rain has saturated the upper snowpack at all but high alpine elevations after roughly 50mm of precipitation fell over Sunday night and Monday morning. Any new snow that may have accumulated at high alpine elevations is likely to remain reactive to human triggering over the short term. At higher elevations, lingering potential may exist for loading from rain or snow to promote reactivity at the late February interface, roughly 1.5 metres deep. This layer is composed of a sun crust on southerly aspects and surface hoar on shaded aspects. An avalanche on this layer would be large and very destructive. No concerns exist below this interface and the snowpack at treeline and below is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 50-80cm of fresh snow has fallen over the past several days (with light to moderate southerly winds). Touchy storm slabs can be found at all elevations with weaknesses within and under this recent snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warming temperatures on Sunday into Monday has resulted in moist (read: heavy) surface snow up to 2100m in most areas, and unstable wet snow below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new snow is bonding slowly to faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of a thick rain crust as high as about 1800 m, sun crusts on steep southerly aspects, and spotty surface hoar on shaded aspects. Recent reports show the bond to this interface slowly improving.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow 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_E1FB2360">Around 20-50cm of fresh snow in the past several days has fallen with light to moderate southwest winds. These winds have formed touchy slabs at upper elevations with multiple weaknesses within and under this recent storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E1FB2360">Warming temperatures on Sunday into Monday has resulted in moist (read: heavy) surface snow up to 2000m in most areas, and some unstable snow below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E1FB2360">All this snow is bonding poorly to weak faceted snow and small surface hoar on sheltered shady slopes, and/or a thin crust on southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E1FB2360">The persistent weakness buried mid-February is lurking down 70-120 cm and composed of a thick rain crust as high as about 2000 m, sun crusts on steep southerly aspects, and spotty surface hoar on shaded aspects. This layer has produced easy results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_E1FB2360">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February (around a metre deep), and mid-January (well over a metre deep primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still sensitive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A warm wet storm will form fresh slabs at higher elevations while rain will fall below treeline. Strong winds will load lee features and continue to grow large cornices on alpine ridges. March has delivered regular storms with roughly 80-120 cm of snow sitting above crust and facet interfaces from February. Little is known about the distribution and reactivity of these interfaces. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and can produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls, rapid warming, or strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warm, wet, and windy storm will form fresh wind slabs at higher elevations while rain with fall below treeline. March has delivered regular storms with roughly 50-90 cm of snow sitting above crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas the snow above these interfaces may have a poor bond. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack in this region is generally strong, but the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. This remains a concern and should be on your radar, especially with the recent loading and ongoing warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On Tuesday, freezing levels reached at least 2200 m and rain was reported to at least 2000 m. As temperatures drop on Wednesday, a new surface crust is expected to be widespread. The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 80-120 cm. In wind loaded terrain, it may as deep as 200 cm. With 5-20 cm of faceted, sugary snow above it, this mid-February crust layer continues to produce easy, sudden results in snowpack tests and remains an ongoing concern. Below the crust layer, 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">On Tuesday, freezing levels reached at least 2100 m. As temperatures drop on Wednesday, a new surface crust is expected to be widespread and the snowpack is expected to gain considerable strength. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, the February weak layers are now down 80-120 cm. The layer of buried surface hoar has recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches. The crust/facet layer appears to be gaining strength but may also still be reactive in isolated areas. In the Coquihalla area, the crust/facet layer is down well over 1 m and appears to have gone dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm slabs continue to develop above 1100 metres. These storm slabs are deep 30-60 cm, with much deeper areas where the wind has transported the snow. Below 1100 metres the snow is moist or wet. The overall results will be widespread touchy storm slabs at higher elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. The storm snow is also stressing a weak </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">interface from February composed of </span><span class="s_3FE45715">facets, crust, and surface hoar </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">buried over a metre deep</span><span class="s_3FE45715">. Given the recent activity on this layer before the storm, it should be very reactive during this storm. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is strong, with the exception of basal facets in shallow snowpack areas around Bear Pass and Ningunsaw.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to build with each pulse of snow and wind. Warm temperatures will make touchy slabs at higher elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. A weak interface that was buried in late February may finally have enough snow above it to form a reactive slab. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-80 cm deep. There's uncertainty about the distribution and reactivity of this interface. The mid-pack is well consolidated and sits above weak sugary snow near the ground. The deeper basal weakness remain a concern in thin rocky start zones and shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 40-60cm of fresh snow has fallen over the past several days (with light to moderate southerly winds). Touchy storm slabs can be found at all elevations with weaknesses within and under this recent snow.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warming temperatures on Sunday into Monday has resulted in moist (read: heavy) surface snow up to 2100m in most areas, and unstable wet snow below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new snow is bonding slowly to faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of a thick rain crust as high as about 1800 m, sun crusts on steep southerly aspects, and spotty surface hoar on shaded aspects. Recent reports show the bond to this interface slowly improving.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. The deep mid-December facet layer still lingers in the northern part of the region near Valemount.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warming temperatures on Monday afternoon destabilized the snowpack, resulting in a widespread natural avalanche cycle below treeline. Use extra caution for the time being in what is normally a 'safer' elevation band. Surface snow up to 2000m is moist (read: heavy).</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We've had 5-15cm of fresh snow (with moderate to strong southerly winds) each of the past several days. Touchy storm slabs can be found at all elevations with weaknesses within and under this recent snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent moderate to strong southerly winds have created reactive wind slabs at treeline and above. All this recent snow is bonding slowly to faceted snow, thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects, as well as surface hoar in sheltered areas in some parts of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">About 80-120 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have also warned that a 'threshold load' has been reached above this interface, particularly where it presents as a crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deep persistent weaknesses (over 1.5 metres down) still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially with the warming temperatures or solar inputs.</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">On Tuesday, freezing levels reached 2200 m or higher. The snow surface was reported to be moist above 2000 m and wet below 2000 m. High elevation rain is expected to continue on Wednesday and will continue to destabilize the snowpack. Prolonged high elevation rain has the potential to wake up deeply buried weak layers in the snowpack. The late-February interface is now down 70-120 cm. This layer is composed of sun crust, surface hoar, and weak faceted snow and continues to produce easy, sudden results in snowpack tests. The thick mid-February crust layer is now down 90-135 cm and exists on solar aspects and at lower elevations. This layer had gone dormant but will be tested during this storm. In most deeper snowpack areas, the snowpack is generally well settled and stable below this crust layer. However, some areas have a lingering basal weakness at the bottom of the snowpack. This is especially prevalent in shallow snowpack areas of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 4 cm of snow in the past 24hrs.  Wind slabs are present at tree line and above on all aspects and are primed for human triggering.  A large recent avalanche cycle in Banff National Park with avalanches going to the deeper layers have the forecasters concerned with the warming temperatures and strong solar radiation.  The deeper layer of concern is the bottom 90cm of the snowpack which is comprised of depth hoar and facets.</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">Heavy rain has saturated the upper snowpack at all but high alpine elevations after roughly 50mm of precipitation fell over Sunday night and Monday morning. Any new snow that may have accumulated at high alpine elevations is likely to remain reactive to human triggering over the short term. At higher elevations, lingering potential may exist for loading from rain or snow to promote reactivity at the late February interface, roughly 1.5 metres deep. This layer is composed of a sun crust on southerly aspects and surface hoar on shaded aspects. An avalanche on this layer would be large and very destructive. No concerns exist below this interface and the snowpack at treeline and below is generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 60-90cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by light to moderate southerly wind. Warm temperatures on Sunday through Tuesday has resulted in moist and/or wet surface snow on all aspects up to 2100m. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 1800m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 60-90cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by light to moderate southerly wind. Warm temperatures on Sunday through Tuesday has resulted in moist and/or wet surface snow on all aspects up to 2100m. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 70-120 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects. Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain to mountain tops has soaked the upper snowpack and caused rapid settlement of the recent storm snow. The surface has been reported to be wet to at least 1800 metres, and moist to 2000 metres or higher. The forecast brief drop in freezing levels in the early morning may not have much effect on the snowpack when the daytime warmth brings the freezing level back up. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and can produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls, rapid warming, or strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warm, wet, and windy storm will form fresh wind slabs at higher elevations while rain will fall below treeline. March has delivered regular storms with roughly 50-90 cm of snow sitting above crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas the snow above these interfaces may have a poor bond. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack in this region is generally strong, but the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. This remains a concern and should be on your radar, especially with the recent loading and ongoing warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On Tuesday, freezing levels reached at least 2200 m and rain was reported to at least 2000 m. As temperatures dropped on Wednesday, a new surface crust has formed at higher elevations. The new snowfall on Thursday will bury this crust layer and strong winds are expected for form new wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 80-120 cm and in wind loaded terrain, it may as deep as 200 cm. With a thick layer of weak faceted snow above it, this crust layer was producing easy, sudden results in snowpack tests prior to the warming event. The layer is expected to gain strength with the cooler temperatures but there is a lot of uncertainty as to how long this layer will remain reactive. Below the crust layer, 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">On Tuesday, freezing levels reached at least 2100 m. In the Coquihalla, rain has been reported to the mountain tops. As temperatures drop over the next couple days, a widespread crust is expected to form and the snowpack is expected to gain considerable strength. New snow on Thursday will accumulate over this crust and strong wind is expected to form new wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region, the February weak layers are now down 80-120 cm. The layer of buried surface hoar has recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches. The crust/facet layer appears to be gaining strength but may also still be reactive in isolated areas. In the Coquihalla area, the crust/facet layer is down well over 1 m and appears to have gone dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm slabs continue to develop above 1100 metres. These storm slabs are deep 30-60 cm, with much deeper areas where the wind has transported the snow. Below 1100 metres the snow is moist or wet. The overall results will be widespread touchy storm slabs at higher elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. The storm snow is also stressing a weak </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">interface from February composed of </span><span class="s_3FE45715">facets, crust, and surface hoar </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">buried over a metre deep</span><span class="s_3FE45715">. Given the recent activity on this layer before the storm, it should be very reactive during this storm. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to build with each pulse of snow and wind. Warm temperatures will make touchy slabs at higher elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. A weak interface that was buried in late February may finally have enough snow above it to form a reactive slab. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's uncertainty about the distribution and reactivity of this interface. The mid-pack is well consolidated and sits above weak sugary snow near the ground. The deeper basal weakness remains a concern in thin rocky start zones and shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 50-80cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by light to moderate southerly wind. Warm temperatures on Sunday through Tuesday has resulted in moist and/or wet surface snow on all aspects up to 2100m. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 1800m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. The deep mid-December facet layer still lingers in the northern part of the Monashees near Valemount.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region, surface snow up to 2000m is moist or wet. There has been 5-15cm of fresh snow with moderate to strong southerly winds each of the past several days creating storm slabs and wind slabs tree line and above. This recent new snow sits on faceted snow, thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects, as well as surface hoar in sheltered areas in some parts of the region. Approximately 80-120 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust. Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially with the warming air temperatures and/or intense sunshine.</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">On Tuesday and Wednesday, freezing levels reached 2200 m or higher. A report from Tuesday suggested the snow surface was moist above 2000 m and wet below 2000 m. A report from Wednesday says the rain has penetrated up to 40 cm deep into the snowpack. As temperatures drop on Thursday, a widespread crust layer is expected to form on the surface. The exception to this will likely be sun exposed slopes where solar radiation is expected to continue to destabilize the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The late-February interface is now down 70-120 cm. This layer is composed of sun crust, surface hoar, and weak faceted snow and was producing easy, sudden results in snowpack tests in observation prior to the rain event. The thick mid-February crust layer is now down 90-135 cm and exists on solar aspects and at lower elevations. This layer had gone dormant but will be tested during this storm. In most deeper snowpack areas, the snowpack is generally well settled and stable below this crust layer. However, some areas have a lingering basal weakness at the bottom of the snowpack. This is especially prevalent in shallow snowpack areas of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10 to 15cm of new snow above 2300m and rain below this elevation. The snowpack is settling rapidly. A widespread natural avalanche cycle is on-going (see Avalanche Activity Discussion). The mid-pack remains dense and the basal layers remain weak. Up to 100cm of depth hoar and facets make up the base of the snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy rain has saturated the upper snowpack well into the alpine. As temperatures drop, a widespread crust layer is expected to form.  New snow on Thursday will bury this crust and strong alpine wind is expected to form wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late February weak layer is now down 1.5 m or more in the snowpack and is now expected to have become unreactive. This layer is composed of a sun crust on southerly aspects and surface hoar on shaded aspects. The snowpack is generally well settled and strong below this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 60-100cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by moderate to strong southerly wind. Warm temperatures on Sunday through Wednesday has resulted in moist and/or rain saturated snow on all aspects up to 2100m. There may now be a weak surface crust found between 1300 and 2100m. The snowpack below approximately 1300m is reported to be isothermic. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in shelteredTue areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 1800m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 60-90cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by moderate southerly wind. Warm temperatures on Sunday through Tuesday has resulted in moist and/or rain saturated snow on all aspects up to 2100m. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 90-140cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects. Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy rain to mountain tops has soaked the upper snowpack and caused rapid settlement of the recent storm snow. The surface has been reported to be wet to at least 1800 metres, and moist to 2000 metres or higher. A brief drop in freezing levels over Thursday night may not have much of a stabilizing effect on the snowpack, especially as daytime warmth brings the freezing level back up on Friday. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and can produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls, rapid warming, or strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warm, wet, and windy storm will form fresh wind slabs at higher elevations while rain will fall below treeline. March has delivered regular storms and roughly 50-90 cm of snow has accumulated above the crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas the snow above these interfaces may have a poor bond. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack in this region is generally strong, but the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. This remains a real concern, especially after the recent loading and with ongoing warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">By Friday morning expect 20-30 cm of recent snow sitting above a widespread </span><span class="s_3FE45715">layer of wet snow up to about 2200 m. The wet snow layer is likely turning into a crust and may become a weak layers as storm snow accumulates. Strong south winds are likely forming thicker slabs in the lee of exposed terrain. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 80-120 cm and in wind loaded terrain, it may be as deep as 200 cm. With a thick layer of weak faceted snow above it, this crust layer was producing easy, sudden results in snowpack tests prior to the warming event. The layer is expected to gain strength with the cooler temperatures but there is a lot of uncertainty as to how long this layer will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Friday morning expect 10-20 cm of recent snow sitting above a widespread layer of wet snow up to about 2100 m. The wet snow layer is likely turning into a crust and may become a weak layer as storm snow accumulates. Strong south winds are likely forming wind slabs in the lee of exposed terrain, which may bond poorly to the crust. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are now down 80-120 cm. The layer of buried surface hoar has recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches. The crust/facet layer appears to be gaining strength but may also still be reactive in isolated areas. In the Coquihalla area, the crust/facet layer is down well over 1 m and appears to have gone dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent stormy weather has blanketed the region with storm slabs that are approximately 30-60 cm deep, with much deeper areas where the wind has transported the recent snow. As these slabs have formed a bond to the surface, ongoing winds and light new snow accumulations have seen our primary hazard transition to wind slabs. At treeline and above, new snow and wind have been loading and stressing a weak </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">interface from February composed of </span><span class="s_3FE45715">facets, crust, and surface hoar </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">buried over a metre deep</span><span class="s_3FE45715">. This layer was active prior to the storm and remains an ongoing concern. After below zero temperatures on Wednesday night, a surface crust has likely formed over moist or wet snow previously reported at 1100 metres and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">As our recent snow has formed a bond to the surface, ongoing winds and light new snow amounts have seen wind slabs emerge as the primary avalanche problem in the region. At lower elevations, below zero temperatures on Wednesday night likely led to a surface crust forming over previously reported moist or wet snow. At higher elevations where new snow has been accumulating, a weak interface that was buried in late February may finally have enough snow above it to form a reactive slab. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's uncertainty about the distribution and reactivity of this interface. The mid-pack is well consolidated, but sits above weak sugary snow near the ground. This deeper basal weakness remains an ongoing concern in thin rocky start zones and in shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 60-100cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by moderate to strong southerly wind. Warm temperatures on Sunday through Wednesday has resulted in moist and/or rain saturated snow on all aspects up to 2100m. There may now be a weak surface crust found between 1300 and 2100m. The snowpack below approximately 1300m is reported to be isothermic. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 1800m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. The deep mid-December facet layer still lingers in the northern part of the Monashees near Valemount.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region, surface snow up to 2000m has been moist or wet and with gradually cooling weather there may be a thin surface crust from between 1200 and 2000m. At upper elevations there has been 5-15cm of fresh snow with moderate to strong southerly winds each of the past several days creating storm slabs and wind slabs tree line and above. This recent new snow sits on faceted snow, thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects, as well as surface hoar in sheltered areas in some parts of the region. Approximately 80-120 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust. Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially with the warming air temperatures and/or intense sunshine.</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">After several days of heavy rain, dropping freezing levels have left a thick rain crust up to about 2200 m. At higher elevations, large amounts of storm snow likely exist. At lower elevations, the rain has soaked the upper snowpack up to 50 cm deep. Several deeper weak layers were tested during the storm including the late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas. These layers may remain reactive a bit longer as the snowpack gradually cools off.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20-30cm of new snow in the last 48hrs. This snow came in quickly and came to rest on rain soaked snow at low elevations and a warm snowpack at higher elevations. This made for an immediate storm slab that was touchy and widespread. Today, that slab has settled and become less reactive. The other chapter to the story is the rapid loading from the new snow. The snowpack was forced to adjust quickly which created another avalanche cycle at treeline and above. The deeper trouble layers are not taking to this adjustment well. The natural cycle is tapering, but the snowpack is still extremely touchy. Winds are picking up today which is adding to the wind slabs and cornice development.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 20 cm of new snow fell on Thursday which now sits above a widespread layer of wet snow that is gradually turning into a crust. Moderate south winds are likely forming wind slabs in the lee of exposed terrain, which may bond poorly to the crust. The late-February weak layer is about 1.5 m deep and is likely now unreactive in most areas. This layer is composed of a sun crust on southerly aspects and surface hoar on shaded aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Around 30-50cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past few days and has been redistributed by moderate to strong southerly wind. End result: touchy storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Warm temperatures on Sunday through Wednesday has resulted in moist and/or rain saturated snow on all aspects up to 2100m. Thanks to clear skies on Thursday night, there may now be a weak surface crust found between 1300 and 2100m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 1800m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow 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_AA239A9B">Around 30-50cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past several days and has been redistributed by moderate southerly wind. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures on Sunday through Tuesday has resulted in moist and/or rain saturated snow on all aspects up to 2100m. The new snow sits on top of faceted snow as well as isolated small surface hoar in sheltered areas and a thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 90-140cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy-moderate results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of new snow fell over Thursday night. Below it, recent heavy rain to mountain tops has soaked the upper snowpack and caused rapid settlement of our recent storm snow. Below freezing temperatures since the rain event have refrozen the wet snow into a crust, which has been reported to be supportive above about 1700 metres. The existence of this crust may not have much of a stabilizing effect on the snowpack, especially as freezing levels rise again on Friday through Saturday. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and can produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls, sustained warming, or storm slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">An unexpected 15 cm of new snow fell over the south of the region on Thursday night, with a trace to 5 cm accumulating in most of the region. Below the new snow, recent warm, wet, and windy weather has formed fresh wind slabs at higher elevations while saturating the snowpack with rain below treeline. The rain soaked snow has refrozen into a crust that may be supportive at higher elevations. Regular snowfall throughout early March has seen roughly 50-90 cm of snow accumulate above the crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas this storm snow may have a poor bond to these interfaces. Aside from that uncertainty, the mid-pack in the region is generally strong. With that said, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. The potential for full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remains a real concern, especially as ongoing loading and warming continue to stress the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts on Saturday will range from 20-30 cm with thicker deposits in the lee of exposed terrain. The recent storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust up to about 2200 m that will be 30-50 cm deep. Some reports indicate the snow is bonding well to the crust, but this may not be the case everywhere. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now 80-120 cm deep and may be up to 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. This layer was reactive prior to last week's warming event, but now there's a lot of uncertainty as to how long it will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow amounts will vary throughout the region with 40 cm or more around the Coquihalla and 15-30 cm in northern areas. Thicker deposits will form in the lee of exposed terrain. The recent storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust up to about 2100 m that will be 30-50 cm deep. Recent reports from the northern part of the region indicate the snow is poorly bonded to the crust, creating a potential sliding layer. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 80-120 cm deep. The buried surface hoar layer has recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches. The crust/facet layer appears to be gaining strength, but may still be reactive in isolated areas. In the Coquihalla area, the crust/facet layer is down over 1 m and appears to have gone dormant. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-20 cm of new snow accumulated over Thursday night and has been blown into touchy wind slabs by strong southerly winds. Below the new snow, about a week of stormy weather has blanketed the region with approximately 30-60 cm of recent snow, with much deeper areas where the wind has transported this snow. As this storm slab has bonded to the surface, ongoing winds and light new snow accumulations have seen our primary avalanche hazard transition to wind slabs. At treeline and above, new snow and wind have been loading and stressing a weak interface from February composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar buried over a metre deep. This layer was active prior to the storm and remains an ongoing concern. A non-supportive surface crust has formed over moist or wet snow at 1100 metres and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At treeline and above, ongoing winds have been redistributing recent storm snow and light new snow amounts into wind slabs in lee terrain. New snow amounts taper with elevation and lie over a supportive crust at about 1300 metres and below. At higher elevations, the recent snow is incrementally loading a weak interface that was buried in late February. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's uncertainty about the distribution and reactivity of this interface, but it recently proved reactive under skier traffic in the north of the region. The mid-pack is well consolidated, but sits above weak, sugary snow near the ground. This deeper basal weakness remains an ongoing concern in thin rocky start zones and in shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 30-50cm of new snow has fallen at upper elevations over the past few days and has been redistributed by moderate to strong southerly wind. End result: touchy storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures on Sunday through Wednesday has resulted in moist and/or rain saturated snow on all aspects up to 2100m. Thanks to clear skies on Thursday night, there may now be a weak surface crust found between 1300 and 2100m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 80-140 cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 1800m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and stable in deeper snowpack areas, but may be weak and faceted in shallow areas. The deep mid-December facet layer still lingers in the northern part of the Monashees near Valemount.</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">In the south of the region, surface snow up to 2000m has been moist or wet, and with cooling weather there may be a thin surface crust between 1200 and 2000m. At upper elevations there has been 25-55cm of fresh snow in the past two days with moderate to strong southerly winds creating storm slabs and wind slabs tree line and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This recent new snow sits on faceted snow, thin sun crust on steep southerly aspects, as well as surface hoar in sheltered areas in some parts of the region. Approximately 100-140 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially with the warming temperatures and/or intense sunshine.</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">A juicy storm will start as snow on Friday night and switch to rain in the morning to form very touchy storm slabs at high elevations and unstable wet snow at lower elevations. Extreme southwest winds will have a dramatic effect on all exposed terrain and likely form touchy cornices. The storm is burying a rain crust that exists up to about 2200 m. Several deeper weak layers were tested during last week's storm including the late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas. These layers may remain reactive with additional loading and warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No new snow has fallen in the region today. The winds however have been moderate to strong in the alpine and have helped to build the windslabs. The re-distribution has caused localized loading in lee areas. An already stressed snowpack is struggling to support the new load. The cooler temps and cloud cover today helped to minimize the sun's effect and keep the surface snow cool. The principle concern at all elevations and aspects is still the deep, basal weak layers. The windslabs are a problem in themselves, but the bigger issue is the slabs' ability to trigger the deeper layers. Cornices are another large trigger that will almost certainly initiate a deep avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect 20-30 cm of new snow by Saturday morning with rising freezing levels creating unstable storm slabs. The recent storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust that will be 30-50 cm deep. Some reports indicate the snow is bonding well to this crust, but that may not be the case everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">Heavy wet snow (15-20 cm in 12 hours) and moderate southerly winds started late Friday and continued through Saturday. Temperatures also warmed up significantly with rain up to 2200m. The end result: Widespread storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">This storm snow (totals of 30-70cm) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 90-140cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy-moderate results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Stormy weather on Saturday has been forming storm slabs at high alpine elevations while rain continues to saturate the snowpack at treeline and below. Below the new snow accumulations, recent heavy rain to mountain tops soaked the upper snowpack and caused rapid settlement of our recent storm snow. Below freezing temperatures since the rain event have refrozen the wet snow into a crust, which has been reported to be supportive above about 1700 metres. This crust will deteriorate at all elevations where rain is occurring before gradually reforming as temperatures cool again on Saturday night. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and can produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls and storm slab avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light new snow accumulations over Thursday and Friday have been redistributed into touchy wind slabs in alpine terrain while rain has soaked the snowpack at treeline and below, breaking down a recently formed rain crust at lower elevations. Below the new snow and crust, regular snowfall throughout early March saw roughly 50-90 cm of snow accumulate above the crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas this storm snow may have a poor bond to these interfaces. Aside from that uncertainty, the mid-pack in the region is generally strong. With that said, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. The potential for full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remains a real concern, especially as ongoing loading and warm temperatures continue to stress the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30 cm of storm snow now sits above a widespread rain crust up to 2200 m. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. Reports suggest the storm snow is generally well bonded to the crust, and cooling temperatures should help stabilize the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now 80-120 cm deep and may be up to 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. This layer was reactive prior to recent warming events, but now there's some uncertainty as to how long it will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts on Saturday totalled roughly 40 cm around Coquihalla and Allison Pass and 30 cm around Duffey Lakes. Freezing levels reached roughly 1400 m, resulting in rain and/or wet snow at lower elevations. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. The storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust up to about 2100 m, but the snow will likely form a good bond to this crust. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 80-120 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the lower snowpack is generally stable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">A steady supply of new snow over Thursday and Friday has been blown into touchy wind slabs by strong southeast to southwest winds at higher elevations. Below the new snow, the previous week of stormy weather delivered approximately 30-60 cm of recent snow, with much deeper areas where the wind transported this snow. At treeline and above, new snow and wind have been loading and stressing a weak interface from February composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar buried over a metre deep. This layer was active prior to the storm and remains an ongoing concern. A non-supportive surface crust has formed over moist or wet snow at 1100 metres and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At treeline and above, ongoing winds have been redistributing recent storm snow and light new snow amounts into wind slabs in lee terrain. New snow amounts taper with elevation and lie over a supportive crust (March 14) at about 1300 metres and below. This crust has been observed at higher elevations in the Smithers area, and wind slabs have proven especially reactive where they sit above it. At higher elevations, wind redistribution is incrementally loading a weak interface that was buried in late February. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's uncertainty about the distribution and reactivity of this interface, but it recently proved reactive under skier traffic in the north of the region. The mid-pack is well consolidated, but sits above weak, sugary snow near the ground. This deeper basal weakness remains an ongoing concern in thin rocky start zones and in shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region, heavy snow (25 cm in 10 hours) and strong winds (gusts over 60 Km/hr) started late Friday and continued through Saturday. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: Widespread storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above with significant cornice growth as well. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new snow sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 100-140 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially with the warming temperatures and/or intense sunshine early next week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow totals in the north (Wells, Sugar Bowl) have been half to one-third of those in the south and avalanche danger is likely one step lower. </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">Rain has soaked the upper snowpack for a second time in a week. This time all the way to mountain tops. Cooling temperatures will gradually form a rain crust on the surface, but expect a thick layer of moist snow in the upper snowpack for some time. This heavy snow will stress a number of deeper weak layers including the late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain fell through the day up to an elevation of 2200m. The snowpack is isothermal at lower elevations. Wind slabs are present in Alpine and Treeline areas on all aspects but localized additional loading has been noted on lee features. Cornices are large and sagging. Extensive avalanche activity has occurred over the last few days, that has all stepped down to the basal weaknesses resulting in large destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's storm delivered 20-30 cm of wet snow in alpine terrain and rain elsewhere. The wet snow will freeze and stabilize the snowpack in all but the highest terrain where isolated storm slabs may sit above a rain crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy snow (15-20 cm in 12 hours) and moderate southerly winds started late Friday and continued all through Saturday. Temperatures also warmed up significantly with rain up to 2100m. The end result: Widespread reactive storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This storm snow (totals of 40-70cm) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 90-140cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy-moderate results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Stormy weather on Saturday formed fresh storm slabs at high alpine elevations while rain once again saturated the snowpack at lower alpine elevations and below. Lower temperatures have since formed a roughly 10 cm thick crust at the rain soaked surface, which will tend to break down with daytime warming at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and still carry the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls and storm slab avalanches, which may trigger naturally with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light new snow accumulations over Thursday and Friday were redistributed into touchy wind slabs in alpine terrain while rain soaked the snowpack at treeline and below. Lower temperatures have since formed a crust at the rain soaked surface, which will tend to break down with daytime warming at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Below the new snow and crust, regular snowfall throughout early March saw roughly 50-90 cm of snow accumulate above the crust and facet interfaces from February. In some areas this storm snow may have a poor bond to these interfaces. Aside from that uncertainty, the mid-pack in the region is generally strong. With that said, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. The potential for full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remains a real concern, with potential triggers including wind slab or cornice releases that may initiate naturally with intense solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30 cm of storm snow now sits above a widespread rain crust up to 2200 m. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. Reports suggest the storm snow is generally well bonded to the crust, and cooling temperatures should help stabilize the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now 80-120 cm deep and may be up to 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. This layer was reactive prior to recent warming events, but now there's some uncertainty as to how long it will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow amounts from Saturday totalled roughly 40 cm around Coquihalla and Allison Pass and 30 cm around Duffey Lakes. Freezing levels reached roughly 1400 m, resulting in rain and/or wet snow at lower elevations. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. The storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust up to about 2100 m, but the snow will likely form a good bond to this crust. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 80-120 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the lower snowpack is generally stable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather delivered approximately 40-70 cm of new snow over the week. Strong southeast and more recent southwest winds have been redistributing this snow into touchy wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. At treeline and above, new snowfall and wind loading have been stressing a weak interface from February composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar buried over a metre deep. This layer has seen a recent decline in reactivity in the south of the region but remains an ongoing concern. It remains quite active and presents a more serious concern in the north of the region. A non-supportive surface crust has formed over moist or wet snow at 1100 metres and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At treeline and above, ongoing winds have been redistributing recent storm snow and light new snow amounts into wind slabs in lee terrain. New snow amounts taper with elevation and lie over a supportive crust (March 14) at about 1300 metres and below. This crust has been observed at higher elevations in the Telkwa area, and wind slabs have proven especially reactive where they sit above it. At higher elevations, wind redistribution is incrementally loading a weak interface that was buried in late February. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's still some uncertainty around the distribution and reactivity of this interface, but it has proven reactive under skier traffic in the north of the region. The mid-pack is well consolidated, but sits above weak, sugary snow near the ground. This deep basal weakness remains an ongoing concern in thin rocky start zones and in shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy wet snow (15-20 cm in 12 hours) and strong to extreme southerly winds started late Friday and continued through Saturday. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: Widespread storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this storm snow (totals of 40-80cm above 1600m) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 100-140 cm below the surface you may find the late-February persistent weakness / crust interface. This layer has woken up from time to time as smaller avalanches still have to potential to 'step down' and trigger this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The deep mid-December facet layer (and November raincrust) still linger at the bottom of the snowpack and are the suspected culprit (running to ground) in a Glacier National Park avalanche. </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ParksMountainSafety/photos/a.1122932427756745.1073741905.145133538869977/1250972184952768/?type=3&amp;theater" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">See here for the spooky picture.</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region, heavy snow (25 cm in 10 hours) and strong south-west winds (gusts over 60 Km/hr) started late Friday and continued through Saturday. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: widespread storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new storm snow (30- 60cm) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 100-140 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially with the warming temperatures and/or intense sunshine on Monday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow totals in the north (Wells, Sugar Bowl) have been half to one-third of those in the south and avalanche danger is likely one step lower.</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">Rain has soaked the upper snowpack for a second time in a week. This time all the way to mountain tops. Cooling temperatures will have formed a rain crust on the surface, but expect a thick layer of moist snow in the upper snowpack for some time. This heavy snow will stress a number of deeper weak layers including the late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain turned to snow overnight with as much as 12cm of new snow at Treeline elevations with strong West winds. Further wind slab development on all aspects. Natural avalanche activity continued today up to size 3.0 with most slides stepping down to the basal layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's storm delivered 20-30 cm of wet snow in alpine terrain and rain elsewhere. The wet snow will freeze and stabilize the snowpack in all but the highest terrain where isolated storm and or wind slabs may sit above a rain crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">We had heavy snow (or rain up to 2000m in places) and strong to extreme southerly winds during the weekend's storm. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: Widespread storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above, with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The most recent storm snow (totals of 20-50cm) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 90-140cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy-moderate results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Stormy weather on Saturday formed fresh storm slabs at high alpine elevations while rain once again saturated the snowpack at lower alpine elevations and below. Lower temperatures have since formed a roughly 5-10 cm thick crust at the rain soaked surface, which tends to break down with daytime warming at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Isolated basal facets still exist in shallow snowpack areas and still carry the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches. Possible triggers for these deeper weak layers include cornice falls and storm slab avalanches, which may trigger naturally with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light recent snow accumulations have been redistributed into wind slabs in alpine terrain while rain recently soaked the snowpack at treeline and below. Lower temperatures have since formed a crust at the rain soaked surface, which will tend to deteriorate with daytime warming. Below the new snow and crust, regular snowfall throughout early March saw roughly 50-90 cm of snow accumulate above the crust and facet interfaces from mid and late February. In some areas this storm snow may have a poor bond to these interfaces. Aside from that uncertainty, the mid-pack in the region is generally strong. With that said, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak sugary facets roughly 1-1.5 metres deep. The potential for full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remains a real concern, with potential triggers including wind slab or cornice releases as well as forecast warming and rain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect an additional 10-15cm of new snow through the day today to add to the 30 cm of storm snow from last weekend, which sits above a widespread rain crust up to 2200m. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. Reports suggest the storm snow is generally well bonded to the crust, and cooling temperatures should help stabilize the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now 80-120 cm deep and may be up to 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. This layer was reactive prior to recent warming events, but now there's some uncertainty as to how long it will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect another 5-10cm of snow at upper elevations to add to the storm snow amounts from last weekend which totalled roughly 40 cm around Coquihalla and Allison Pass and 30 cm around Duffey Lakes. Freezing levels reached roughly 1400 m at that time, resulting in rain and/or wet snow at lower elevations. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. The storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust up to about 2100 m, but the snow will likely form a good bond to this crust. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 80-120 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the lower snowpack is generally stable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Clear skies have formed sun crust at the surface on solar aspects over much of the region. Below the surface, last week's stormy weather delivered approximately 40-70 cm of new snow over the week. Winds since the storm have been shifting between southeast and southwest, redistributing this snow into touchy wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Recent observations have described a touchy rain crust layer buried approximately 40 cm deep within the storm snow. At treeline and above, new snowfall and wind loading have been stressing a weak interface from late February composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar buried over a metre deep. Recent reports suggest that this layer may remain active in the south of the region. It is substantially more active and presents a more serious concern in the north of the region. A non-supportive surface crust has formed over moist or wet snow at 1100 metres and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent solar radiation has formed a sun crust on the surface of solar aspects throughout much of the region. Below the surface, southwest to southeast winds have been redistributing recent storm snow and light new snow amounts into wind slabs on a range of aspects at treeline and above. New snow amounts taper with elevation and lie over a supportive crust (March 14) at about 1300 metres and below. This crust has been observed at higher elevations in the Telkwa area, and wind slabs have proven especially reactive where they sit above it. At higher elevations, wind redistribution has been incrementally loading a weak interface that was buried in late February. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's still some uncertainty around the distribution and reactivity of this interface, but it has proven reactive under skier traffic in the north of the region. The mid-pack is well consolidated, but sits above weak, sugary snow near the ground. This deep basal weakness remains an ongoing concern in thin rocky start zones and in shallow snowpack locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region, we had heavy snow and strong south-west winds (gusts over 60 Km/hr) during the weekend's storm. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: widespread storm slabs and reactive wind slabs at treeline and above, with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new storm snow (30- 60cm) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1900m, the new snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 100-140 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially if the sun comes out in full force.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow totals in the north (Wells, Sugar Bowl) have been half to one-third of those in the south and avalanche danger is likely one step lower.</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">Last weekend rain soaked the upper snowpack for a second time in a week. This time all the way to mountain tops. Cooling temperatures will have formed a 10-30cm rain crust on the surface. In parts of the region there may now be a thin layer of new snow sitting on top of the crust. Below the crust expect to see moist or wet snow. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations and may still be reactive and become a concern as surface crusts break down with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Widespread wind slabs in the alpine on all aspects. Moist snow on solar aspects. Well settled upper snowpack below 2200m due to recent rain followed by cold temps. Temp crust below tree line. Still seeing Na to size 3.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last weekend's storm delivered 20-30 cm of wet snow in alpine terrain and rain elsewhere. The wet snow has frozen and stabilized the snowpack in all but the highest terrain where isolated storm and or wind slabs may sit above a rain crust. High freezing level and continued precipitation over the coming days will start to break down the recent crust formation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We had heavy snow (or rain up to 2000m in places) and strong to extreme southerly winds during the weekend's storm. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: Widespread storm slabs and wind slabs at treeline and above, with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The most recent storm snow (totals of 20-50cm) sits on older windslabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1800m, the new (very moist) snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weakness buried late-February is now down 90-140cm, and is composed of weak facetted crystals on a thick rain crust as high as about 2000m and facets on sun crust on steep southerly aspects. This layer has produced easy-moderate results in recent snowpack tests and has proven especially reactive on steep southerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Several deeper persistent weaknesses also remain a concern, including surface hoar buried early-February and mid-January (primarily in the northern Purcells). The november crust and basal facets are still reactive in shallow, rocky start zones.</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_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate amounts of alpine snow will form wind slabs at higher elevations on Tuesday night. Meanwhile at lower elevations, rain will once again soak the snowpack. A thick rain crust has formed near the surface at all elevations, but tends to break down with daytime warming at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light amounts of alpine snow will form wind slabs in the alpine on Tuesday night. Meanwhile at lower elevations, light rain will soak the snowpack once again. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain. Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect an additional 10-15cm of new snow through the day today to add to the 30 cm of storm snow from last weekend, which sits above a widespread rain crust up to 2200m. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. Reports suggest the storm snow is generally well bonded to the crust, and cooling temperatures should help stabilize the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer is now 80-120 cm deep and may be up to 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. This layer was reactive prior to recent warming events, but now there's some uncertainty as to how long it will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect another 10-15cm of snow at upper elevations to add to the storm snow amounts from last weekend which totalled roughly 40 cm around Coquihalla and Allison Pass and 30 cm around Duffey Lakes. Freezing levels reached roughly 1400 m at that time, resulting in rain and/or wet snow at lower elevations. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. The storm snow sits above a widespread rain crust up to about 2100 m, but the snow has likely formed a good bond to this crust. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 80-120 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the lower snowpack is generally stable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect fresh wind slabs to form in the lee of exposed terrain as unsettled weather brings small amounts of new snow and strong southwest winds. Storm snow from last week is continuing to settle and get redistributed by predominately southerly winds. It may be reactive above a touchy 40 cm deep rain crust. At treeline and above, recent loading has stressed a 1 m deep weak interface composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar from late February. Recent reports suggest this layer is still reactive throughout the region, especially in the north. A non-supportive surface crust has formed over moist or wet snow at 1100 m and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Incoming winds and light flurries will transport snow in exposed terrain to form fresh wind slabs. Recent snow continues to settle, with amounts tapering with elevation. At lower elevations, the recent snow sits above a supportive rain crust (March 14). This crust has also been observed at higher elevations in the Telkwa area, and wind slabs have proven especially reactive where they sit above it. At higher elevations, wind has incrementally loaded a weak interface that was buried in late February. The interface is composed of facets, crusts, and surface hoar and may be 40-60 cm deep. There's still some uncertainty around the distribution and reactivity of this interface, but it has been reactive under skier traffic in the north of the region. Weak, sugary snow near the ground continues to be a concern in thin rocky areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region, we had heavy snow and strong south-west winds (gusts over 60 Km/hr) during the weekend's storm. Temperatures also warmed up significantly. The end result: widespread storm slabs and reactive wind slabs at treeline and above, with significant cornice growth as well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All this new storm snow (30- 60cm) sits on older wind slabs (or soft slabs) at treeline and above. Below 1900m, the new (moist) snow sits on a melt-freeze crust from last week's warm storm, and reports so far are that the new snow is bonding well to the old crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 100-140 cm below the surface you may find the mid-February persistent weakness. Professionals in the region have warned that the load above this layer has reached a critical amount, particularly where it presents as a crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Deep persistent weaknesses in the lower third of the snowpack still have the potential to react to human triggers or smaller slab avalanches, especially if the sun comes out in full force.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow totals in the north (Wells, Sugar Bowl) have been half to one-third of those in the south and avalanche danger is likely one step lower.</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">Last weekend rain soaked the upper snowpack for a second time in a week. This time all the way to mountain tops. Cooling temperatures will have formed a 10-30cm rain crust on the surface. In parts of the region there may now be a thin layer of new snow sitting on top of the crust. Below the crust expect to see moist or wet snow. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations and may still be reactive and become a concern as surface crusts break down with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is a temperature crust from the recent rain event up to 2250m. This has made travel below tree line very easy for going uphill and a little interesting for going downhill. A snow pit profile dug at Burstall Pass on Tuesday indicates a generally well settled snowpack sitting on 125cm of facets and depth hoar which has a four finger resistance. It is like putting something dense overtop of a bunch of &quot;pick up sticks&quot;. Above 2300m in the alpine, there was either a soft slab approximately 20cm thick or widespread wind slab which is reactive to snow pit tests. Many slopes  that have not avalanched look primed for human triggering.&nbsp; Good skiing can be found on moderate angled slopes in the alpine with no overhead hazard and sheltered areas at tree line.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last weekend's storm delivered 20-30 cm of wet snow in alpine terrain and rain elsewhere. That wet snow has frozen and bonded to the previous surface in all but the highest terrain where isolated storm and or wind slabs may sit above a rain crust. High freezing level and continued precipitation over the coming days will start to break down the recent crust formation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-25 cm of new snow overlies a thick rain crust which formed over the weekend. The crust has been reported up to around 2000 m and has been reported to be supportive to skiers between 1500 and 1900 m. Alpine wind has recently been strong from a variety of directions and has formed wind slabs on all aspects. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 40-50 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 100-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepped down to these layer recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On Wednesday, moist snow was reported as high as 2200 m on north aspects and 2400 m on south aspects.  The snowpack is reported to be rain soaked below around 1800 m.  At higher elevations, there is upwards of a metre of recent storm snow and there still may be weakness within or below this snow.  Recent strong wind from a variety of directions has formed wind slabs on all aspects in exposed terrain in the alpine. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Large cornices are also expected on northerly aspects in the alpine. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation has delivered about 15 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain soaked has the snow below about 1800 m. The new snow has fallen on a thick rain crust that has capped the snowpack at all elevations. Daytime warming and sunlight tend to break down the crust in some areas, but it remains frozen on northerly alpine terrain. Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation has delivered 5-10 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain soaked has the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain. Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Tuesday the freezing level reached 2000+m. This turned the last weekend's storm snow moist and subsequently froze in the overnight period. 10-15cm of new snow at upper elevations now sits above. A rain crust which formed last week is now buried 30-50cm. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-February crust/facet layer may still be found at the upper end of tree-line into the alpine and is 80-120 cm deep and may be up to 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. This layer was reactive prior to recent warming events, but now there's some uncertainty as to how long it will remain reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Tuesday the freezing level reached 2000+m. A subsequent freezing may have created a thin crust. 10-15cm of snow at upper elevations may now sit on this crust. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. A widespread thick rain crust forming last week up to 2100m is now approximately 40-60cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 80-120 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the lower snowpack is generally stable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fresh wind slabs are forming in the lee of exposed terrain as unsettled weather brings small amounts of new snow and moderate southwest winds. Storm snow from last week is continuing to settle and get redistributed by predominately southerly winds. Old wind slabs may be reactive above a 40 cm deep rain crust. At treeline and above, recent loading has stressed a 50-100 cm deep weak interface composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar from late February. Recent reports suggest this layer is still reactive throughout the region, especially in the north.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Unsettled weather with moderate winds is redistributing snow in exposed terrain. Mild temperatures have promoted the settlement of recent snow into a 20-60 cm thick slab above a crust interface. Recent reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has formed a reactive slab. Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of new snow typically overlies the thick rain crust which formed over the weekend. The crust has been reported up to around 2000 m and has been reported to be supportive to skiers between 1500 and 1900 m. Alpine wind has recently been strong from a variety of directions and has formed wind slabs on all aspects. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 40-60 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 100-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepping down to these layer recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">40-60 cm of recent storm snow typically overlies the mid-March crust in the south of the region, with smaller amounts in the north.  Recent strong winds from a variety of directions formed wind slabs in exposed terrain.  On Wednesday, the snow surface was reported to be moist to around 1900 m.  The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 100-140 cm and has recently been reactive with many avalanches stepping down to it.  </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Last weekend rain soaked the upper snowpack for a second time in a week all the way to mountain tops. Subsequent cooling temperatures then formed a 10-30cm rain crust. In many parts of the region above the 1500m there may now be 10-15cm of new snow sitting on top of the crust. Below the crust expect to see moist or wet snow. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations and may still be reactive and become a concern as surface crusts break down with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 15cm of recent snow overlies a supportive crust layer. Above 2200m this crust begins to deteriorate. In Alpine and Treeline wind slabs are found on all aspects, but expect deeper deposits on lee and cross-loaded features. The lower 125cm of the snowpack consists of facets and depth hoar. This critical weakness will persist for the rest of the season.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Wednesday there was heavy rain up to approximately 1400m. The rain has fallen on already moist or wet snow sitting above a strong and well settled snowpack. In the highest elevation terrain expect storm and or wind slabs to be sitting above a a strong rain crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of new snow overlies a thick rain crust which formed over the weekend. The crust has been reported as high as 2000 m and has been reported to be supportive to skiers between 1500 and 1900 m. Alpine wind has recently been strong from a variety of directions and wind slabs are expected on all aspects in wind exposed terrain. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 40-50 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 100-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Melt-freeze conditions are being reported below 2100-2200 m elevation with widespread crust being reported on Thursday. Recent strong wind from a variety of directions has formed wind slabs on all aspects in exposed terrain in the high alpine. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Large cornices are also expected on northerly aspects in the alpine. At lower elevations, there are a couple rain crusts in the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation has delivered 15-25 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain soaked has the snow below about 1800 m. The new snow has fallen on a thick rain crust that has capped the snowpack at all elevations. Daytime warming and sunlight tend to break down the crust in some areas, but it remains frozen on northerly alpine terrain. Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation has delivered 5-10 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain soaked has the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain. Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">After 25 cm of new snow blanketed the region on Wednesday night, roughly 35-40 cm of new snow lies over a crust that formed over last week's storm snow. This crust exists at about 2000 metres and lower. Beneath the previous storm snow, an older rain crust that formed last week is now buried about 55-75cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This interface is now 100-140 cm deep and may be over 200 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. Although there is growing uncertainty about how much longer it will remain reactive, continued caution is warranted as new snow and wind continue to load the upper snowpack and stress deeper layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Tuesday the freezing level reached 2000+m. A subsequent freezing may have created a thin crust. 15-25cm of snow at upper elevations may now sit on this crust. Thicker wind slabs and large cornices likely exist in alpine terrain. A widespread thick rain crust forming last week up to 2100m is now approximately 40-60cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 90-130 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally stable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fresh wind slabs and cornices are forming in the lee of exposed terrain as unsettled weather brings small amounts of new snow and moderate winds. Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1000 m. Snow may still be poorly bonded to a 40 cm deep crust and surface hoar interface from mid-March, however, the late-February interface has been the more troublesome persistent layer. It's composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar roughly 50-100 cm deep and is still reactive throughout the region, especially in shallower areas around Stewart and Bear Pass.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Unsettled weather with moderate winds is redistributing snow in exposed terrain. Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1300 m. Recent snow has settled into a 20-60 cm thick slab above an older crust interface. Recent reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has resulted in a reactive slab. Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25 cm of new snow typically overlies the thick rain crust which formed over the weekend. The crust has been reported as high as 2000 m and has been reported to be supportive to skiers between 1500 and 1900 m. Alpine wind has recently been strong from a variety of directions and has formed wind slabs on all aspects. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 50-60 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 100-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A new sun crust is being reported on solar aspects. Below treeline, the snowpack is expected to be undergoing daily melt-freeze. At higher elevations, the mid-March crust is down 40-60 cm in the south of the region and shallower in the north. Recent strong winds from a variety of directions formed wind slabs in exposed terrain. The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 100-140 cm and has recently been reactive with many avalanches stepping down to it. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Last weekend rain soaked the upper snowpack for a second time in a week all the way to mountain tops. Subsequent cooling temperatures then formed a 10-30cm rain crust. In many parts of the region above the 1500m there may now be 15-20cm of new snow sitting on top of the crust. Below the crust expect to see moist or wet snow. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations and may still be reactive and become a concern as surface crusts break down with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 10cm of recent snow overlies a supportive crust layer. Above 2200m this crust begins to deteriorate. In Alpine and Treeline wind slabs are found on all aspects, but expect deeper deposits on lee and cross-loaded features.&nbsp; Moist snow is found on solar aspects from the strong solar radiation. The lower 125cm of the snowpack consists of facets and depth hoar. This critical weakness will persist for the rest of the season.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 5 cm of new snow lies on the surface at about 1400 metres and below. This new snow lies over moist or wet snow sitting above a strong and well settled snowpack. In the highest elevation terrain, new snow amounts are likely closer to 10 cm. At these elevations, the new snow contributes to storm and/or wind slabs sitting above a a strong rain crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of new snow overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 40-50 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of new snow overlies a widespread crust below around 2100 m and higher on solar aspects. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west aspects and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine and appear to be largest on northerly aspects. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, there are a couple rain crusts in the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light precipitation has delivered 15-25 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain has soaked the snow below about 1800 m. The new snow is bonding well to a thick rain crust that has capped the snowpack at all elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Daytime warming and sunlight tend to break down the crust in some areas, but it remains frozen on northerly alpine terrain. Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Over the past two days we've had 5-15 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, which sits on a thick hard crust that is quite solid above 1700m. In some locations winds have been strong from the southwest, creating wind slabs on northerly aspects, and isolated features at treeline. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain has soaked the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</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">After another 15 cm of new snow fell over the region on Thursday night, roughly 50 cm of wind affected new snow now lies above a crust that formed over last week's storm snow. This crust exists at about 2000 metres and lower. Beneath the previous storm snow, an older rain crust that formed last week is now buried about 70-90 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This interface is now 115-155 cm deep and may be over 220 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. Although there is growing confidence in this layer becoming dormant, continued caution is warranted while our newly formed storm slabs remain reactive. A big enough storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to coax this layer into reacting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over the week have deposited 20-30 cm of heavily wind affected new snow at upper elevations. Periodic rises in freezing levels to 2000 metres or higher over the same time period have been setting up a series of crust layers (March 20, 22, 23) within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A more widespread thick rain crust (March 15) exists up to 2100m and is now buried approximately 45-70cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 100-140 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer that recently produced a few persistent slab avalanches and a crust/facet layer that appears to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Fresh wind slabs and cornices are forming in the lee of exposed terrain as unsettled weather has brought small amounts of new snow and moderate winds. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1000 m. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow may still be poorly bonded to a 40 cm deep crust and surface hoar interface from mid-March, however, the late-February interface has been the more troublesome persistent layer. It's composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar roughly 50-100 cm deep and is still reactive throughout the region, especially in shallower areas around Stewart and Bear Pass.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Unsettled weather with moderate winds is redistributing snow in exposed terrain. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1300 m. Recent snow has settled into a 20-60 cm thick slab above an older crust interface. Recent reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has resulted in a reactive slab. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of new snow overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 50-60 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of new snow overlies a rain crust at lower elevations or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported and expected to be biggest on northerly aspects in the alpine. T</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he mid-March crust is down 40-60 cm in the south of the region and shallower in the north. The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 100-150 cm and has recently been reactive with many avalanches stepping down to it. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Roughly 20-30 cm of snow from the past few days lies over a widespread rain crust that exists at all elevations. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure have formed a series of thin crusts in this upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moist or wet snow exists below the widespread rain crust. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (70-120 cm deep), the mid-February crust (90-130 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations and may still be reactive and become a concern as surface crusts break down with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10cm of recent snow is overlying a widespread temperature crust that can be found up to 2300m.  Strong winds and recent new snow have created windslabs in Alpine terrain and isolated areas at treeline such as ridgelines and gullies.  Moderate sheers were being noted down 30-40cm at the interface with the recent snow.  Below this the midpack is well settled but the weak facetted base is still very pronounced and producing hard sheers that are very sudden in nature.  Moist snow was being observed below 2000m later in the day on Friday. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A wide ranging 5 -25 cm of new snow covered the region over Thursday night. Below 1400 metres, this new snow lies over moist or wet snow sitting above a strong and well settled snowpack. In the highest elevation terrain, more of our recent precipitation fell as snow rather than rain. The resulting combination of recent and new snow means that much thicker storm slabs can be found at high elevations. These storm slabs sit above a a strong rain crust. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of new snow overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 40-50 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow overlies a widespread crust below around 2100 m and higher on solar aspects. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west aspects and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine and appear to be largest on northerly aspects. At lower elevations, there are a couple rain crusts in the upper snowpack. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The storm on Friday-Saturday had some intense convective activity which brought locally heavy snowfall (or graupel) and storm totals of 15-30cm. Winds became moderate westerly at ridge top with lots of transport. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow at the middle of last week delivered 15-25 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain soaked the snow below about 1800 m. The new snow is bonding variably to a thick rain crust that capped the snowpack at all elevations: In some areas the recent snow is showing signs of significant propagation and peeling off the crust with the additional loading of the latest storm snow (see Avalanche Summary above).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Over the past few days we've had 10-25 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, which sits on a thick hard crust that is quite solid above 1700m. In some locations winds have been strong from the southwest, creating wind slabs 10-50cm thick on northerly aspects, and isolated features at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain from last week soaked the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</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">After another 25 cm of new snow fell over the region on Thursday night through Friday, roughly 50 cm of wind affected new snow now lies above a crust that formed over last week's storm snow. This crust exists at about 2000 metres and lower. Beneath the previous storm snow, an older rain crust that formed last week is now buried about 80-100 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This interface is now 125-165 cm deep and may be over 230 cm deep in wind loaded terrain. Although there is growing confidence in this layer becoming dormant, continued caution is warranted while our newly formed storm slabs remain triggerable. A big enough storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to coax this layer into reacting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over the week have deposited 25-45 cm of heavily wind affected new snow at upper elevations. Periodic rises in freezing levels to 2000 metres or higher over the same time period have been setting up a series of crust layers (March 20, 22, 23) within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A more widespread thick rain crust (March 15) exists up to 2100m and is now buried approximately 45-70cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 100-140 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer that appear to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Fresh storm slabs and cornices are forming in the lee of exposed terrain as yet another March storm has brought 5-15cm of new snow (20cm near Stewart) and moderate southwest winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This recent snow sits on a crust on solar aspects and below 1000 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow may still be poorly bonded to a 40 cm deep crust and surface hoar interface from mid-March, however, the late-February interface has been the more troublesome persistent layer. It's composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar roughly 70-140 cm deep and is still reactive throughout the region, especially in shallower areas around Stewart and Bear Pass.</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">Unsettled weather, and 5-12cm new snow with moderate winds is redistributing snow in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1300 m (reportedly breakable crust below 1000m). Recent snow has settled into a 20-60 cm thick slab above an older crust interface. Recent reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has resulted in a reactive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</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">20-50 cm of new snow overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported on northerly aspects in the alpine. The rain crust which formed last week is now down 50-60 cm and generally seems to be well bonded to the surrounding snow. The February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during the recent storm cycle with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-40 cm of new snow overlies a rain crust at lower elevations or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported and expected to be biggest on northerly aspects in the alpine. T</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he mid-March crust is down 40-60 cm in the south of the region and shallower in the north. The mid-February crust/facet layer is now typically down 100-150 cm and has recently been reactive with many avalanches stepping down to it. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">After 20-25 cm of new snow fell over the region on Friday, roughly 40-50 cm of snow now lies over a widespread rain crust that exists at all elevations. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure have formed a series of thin crusts that exist within this upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moist or wet snow exists below the widespread rain crust. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (90-140 cm deep), the mid-February crust (110-150 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations and may still be reactive and become a increasing concern with daytime warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-15cm overnight on Friday and another 4-5cm of snow throughout the day on Saturday combined with moderate westerly winds at higher elevations is creating new windslabs along ridgelines and in crossloaded features in alpine and treeline terrain.  These new windslabs are overlying a settled midpack that is overlying a very weak facetted base in most areas.  Thin weak areas are the likely areas where one may trigger the deeper instabilities and cause a large destructive avalanche.  Natural avalanche activity has began to taper off but many slopes are still primed for a large avalanche.  Use caution around terrain that has not yet released.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A wide ranging 15-45 cm of new snow covered the region over Thursday and Friday night. Below 1400 metres, this new snow lies over moist or wet snow sitting above a strong and well settled snowpack. Much thicker and more reactive storm slabs are likely to be found at higher elevations. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-50 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a widespread crust below around 2100 m and higher on solar aspects. On steep solar aspects, a new sun crust is also being reported.  Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west aspects and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches.  Heavy triggers like cornices and explosives continue to sporadically trigger deep weaknesses in the snowpack as recently as Saturday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The storm on Friday-Saturday had some intense convective activity which brought locally heavy snowfall (or graupel) and storm totals of 15-35cm. Winds became moderate westerly at ridge top with lots of transport.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow at the middle of last week delivered 15-25 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, while rain soaked the snow below about 1800 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All the recent snow (now a layer roughly 40cm thick) is bonding variably to the hard (March 21st) rain crust (10cm thick) that capped the snowpack at all elevations: In some areas the recent snow is showing signs of significant propagation and peeling off the crust with the additional loading of the latest storm snow (see Avalanche Summary above).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><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">Over the past few days we've had 10-30 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, which sits on a thick hard crust that is quite solid above 1700m. In some locations winds have been strong from the southwest, creating wind slabs 10-50cm thick on northerly aspects, and isolated features at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain from last week soaked the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</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">Stormy weather over the end of last week brought roughly 50 cm of wind affected new snow to the region. At about 2000 metres and below, this new snow lies above a crust (March 22) that formed over last week's storm snow. Beneath this older storm snow, an older rain crust that was buried around March 15 is now about 80-100 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This interface is now generally 125-165 cm deep but may present at the surface or up to 250 cm deep in heavily wind affected terrain. Although there is growing confidence in this layer becoming dormant, continued caution is warranted while our recently formed storm slabs remain triggerable. A big enough storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to coax this layer or the shallower March 15 crust layer into reacting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over last week deposited 25-45 cm of heavily wind affected new snow to the region. Periodic rises in freezing levels to 2000 metres or higher over the same time period have been setting up a series of crust layers (March 20, 22, 23) within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A more widespread thick rain crust (March 15) exists up to 2100m and is now buried approximately 45-70cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 100-140 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer that appear to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Fresh storm slabs (up to 40cm thick) developed at treeline and above, while cornices grew larger during another March storm: Weekend totals brought 10-20cm of new snow and moderate southwest / southeast winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This recent snow sits on a crust on solar aspects and below 1000 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow may still be poorly bonded to a 40 cm deep crust and surface hoar interface from mid-March, however, the late-February interface has been the more troublesome persistent layer. It's composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar roughly 70-140 cm deep and is still reactive throughout the region, especially in shallower areas around Stewart and Bear Pass. See the Avalanche Summary above for a good example of this persistent problem re-awakening. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Variable and unsettled weather has given 5-15cm of new snow in the past few days. Winds have been moderate southerly, and sufficient to transport snow in exposed terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1300 m (reportedly breakable crust below 1000m). Snow from the past week or so has settled into a 20-60 cm thick slab above an older crust interface. Reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has resulted in a reactive slab, in addition to weaknesses down 30-35cm within the storm snow itself (giving sudden planar results in snowpack tests). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</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">20-50 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a rain crust at lower elevations or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now expected to generally be well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, the February crust/facet layer is down 100-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls also stepped down to these layers recently resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. Heavy triggers like cornices and explosives continue to sporadically trigger deep weaknesses in the snowpack as recently as Saturday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Stormy weather over the past week brought roughly 40-50 cm of snow to the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the same period formed a series of crusts (March 19-24) that exist within this upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. The new snow and series of crusts lie over a more widespread (March 14) rain crust that exists at all elevations. Moist or wet snow exists below this rain crust. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (90-140 cm deep), the mid-February crust (110-150 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations. Overlying crusts have been noted acting as a bridge over these layers and any remaining reactivity is likely limited to high alpine locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">7-17cm HN and up to 30cm over the past two days. Wind affect in alpine areas but much more isolated at TL and below. New snow settling rapidly with warm temps and steep solar aspects becoming moist by 10:30am. Good skiing can be found on non-solar aspects and sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A wide ranging 15-45 cm of new snow fell over the region at the end of the past week. Below 1400 metres, this new snow is likely forming a good bond to moist snow sitting above a strong and well settled snowpack. Much thicker and potentially more reactive storm slabs are likely to be found at higher elevations. The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and strong throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-50 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices are also reported along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a widespread crust below around 2100 m and higher on solar aspects. On steep solar aspects, a new sun crust is also being reported. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west aspects and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. Heavy triggers like cornices and explosives continue to sporadically trigger deep weaknesses in the snowpack as recently as Saturday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The storm on Friday-Saturday had some intense convective activity which brought locally heavy snowfall (or graupel) and storm totals by Monday of 20-45cm. Winds at times were moderate westerly at ridge top with lots of transport.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent snowpack tests have shown some reactivity in the storm snow layer (down 20-30cms) and also on the March 21st crust (down 40-60cm, giving propagation-likely test results).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">All the recent snow (now a layer roughly 40-60cm thick) is bonding variably to the hard (March 21st) rain crust (10cm thick) that capped the snowpack at all elevations: In some areas the recent snow is showing signs of significant propagation and peeling off the crust with the additional loading of the latest storm snow (see Avalanche Summary above).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below 1600m (or on slopes facing the sun) the snow surface typically becomes moist in the afternoon with daytime heating / solar input. Depending on cloud cover, a (breakable) crust forms overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Isolated basal facets exist in shallow snowpack areas and still have the potential to produce destructive full-depth avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Over the past few days we've had 10-30 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, which sits on a thick hard crust that is quite solid above 1700m. In some locations winds have been strong from the southwest, creating wind slabs 10-50cm thick on northerly aspects, and isolated features at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain from last week soaked the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecast stormy conditions are expected to add to the recent storm slabs. At about 2000 metres and below, the storm snow lies above a crust (March 22) that formed last week. Beneath this older storm snow, an older rain crust that was buried around March 15 is now about 80-100 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This interface is now generally 125-165 cm deep but may present at the surface or up to 250 cm deep in heavily wind affected terrain. Although there is growing confidence in this layer becoming dormant, continued caution is warranted while our recently formed storm slabs remain triggerable. A big enough storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to coax this layer or the shallower March 15 crust layer into reacting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over last week deposited 25-45 cm of heavily wind affected new snow to the region. Periodic rises in freezing levels to 2000 metres or higher over the same time period have been setting up a series of crust layers (March 20, 22, 23) within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A more widespread thick rain crust (March 15) exists up to 2100m and is now buried approximately 45-70cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February weak layers are 100-140 cm deep and include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer that appear to be gaining strength. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs (up to 40cm thick) developed at treeline and above, while cornices grew larger during another March storm: Weekend totals brought 10-20cm of new snow and moderate southwest / southeast winds.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow may still be poorly bonded to a 40 cm deep crust and surface hoar interface from mid-March; however, the late-February interface has been the more troublesome persistent layer. It's composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar roughly 70-140 cm deep and is still reactive throughout the region, especially in shallower areas around Stewart and Bear Pass. See the Avalanche Summary above for surprising examples of this persistent problem re-awakening.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Variable and unsettled weather has given 5-15cm of new snow in the past few days. Winds have been moderate to STRONG southerly, but most exposed surfaces are either heavily scoured or wind-pressed firm by now.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1300 m (reportedly breakable crust below 1000m). Snow from the past week or so has settled into a 20-60 cm thick slab above an older crust interface. Reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has resulted in a reactive slab, in addition to weaknesses down 30-35cm within the storm snow itself (giving sudden planar results in snowpack tests).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</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">20-50 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a rain crust below around 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of snow has now accumulated over the past week which overlies a rain crust at lower elevations or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from south through west directions and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices are also reported in the alpine. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now expected to generally be well bonded and stable. At higher elevations, the February crust/facet layer is down 100-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls also stepped down to these layers recently resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. Heavy triggers like cornices and explosives continue to sporadically trigger deep weaknesses in the snowpack as recently as Saturday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Stormy weather over the past week brought roughly 40-50 cm of snow to the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the same period formed a series of crusts (March 19-24) that exist within this upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. The new snow and series of crusts lie over a more widespread (March 14) rain crust that exists at all elevations. Moist or wet snow exists below this rain crust. The late-February facet / surface hoar interface (90-140 cm deep), the mid-February crust (110-150 cm deep), and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still be present at upper elevations. Overlying crusts have been noted acting as a bridge over these layers and any remaining reactivity is likely limited to high alpine locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Up to 30cm of new snow in the last three days. Wind effect was observed in the alpine, on lee features and cross loaded gullies. Moist snow was felt below 1900m and it is settling rapidly with warm temps. Good skiing can be found on shady aspects and sheltered areas. Numerous pits were dug in many areas of our forecast area and the most relevant observation was the weakness of the bottom 100cm of the snowpack (mostly facets and depth hoar). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is expected at alpine elevations tonight and tomorrow. Freezing levels are uncertain, so there may be new snow at treeline, or it may be mostly rain. Areas that receive new snow and wind are expected to further develop new storm slabs. Rain soaked snow at lower elevations may fail as loose wet avalanches on steep convex rolls or steep creek banks and cut blocks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of recent storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. This now brings 30-70 cm of accumulated snow over the past week which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of recent snow has fallen at upper elevations and caps a sun crust on solar aspects. This brings 20-40 cm of accumulated snow over the past week. This recent snow overlies a widespread crust below 2300 m and higher on solar aspects. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from the SW and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices also exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_1681A555">Warm temperatures on Monday (up to +4 Celsius at treeline) have left a 1-2cm thick breakable crust at most elevations, capped with a few centimeters of light snow. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Over the past several days we've had 10-30 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, which sits on a thick hard crust that is quite solid above 1700m. In some locations winds have been strong from the southwest, creating wind slabs 10-50cm thick on northerly aspects, and isolated features at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain from last week soaked the snow below about 2000 m. Recent rain and sun have left a variety of crusts that are thicker and most supportive in open south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads (eg: cornice fall) or warm temperatures (eg: full exposure to the sun). </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">Continued light to moderate snowfall is expected to add to the recent storm slabs. 2000m and below, the storm snow lies above a crust that formed last week. A rain crust that was buried around March 15 is now 80-100 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of tree line and into the alpine. This interface is generally 120-170 cm deep but may be present nearer to the surface in wind scoured areas. Although there is growing confidence that this layer is becoming dormant, a storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to trigger any of the deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over last week accumulated 30-55cm of heavily wind affected new snow in the region. Freezing levels to 2000m or higher and intermittent sun over the same time period created a variety of crust layers within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A thick rain crust forming in Mid-March up to 2100m is down 45-70cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February persistent weak layers may still be found and are down 100-140cm. They include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We've seen light snowfall and steady light to moderate winds over the past several days. Weekend totals brought 10-20cm of new snow and moderate southwest / southeast winds. Consequently, storm slabs (up to 40cm thick) developed at treeline and above. Cornices have also grown larger with the steady winds and regular, small amounts of snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Seasonal spring temperatures mean the snow has been moist below ~1200m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow may still be poorly bonded to a 40 cm deep crust and surface hoar interface from mid-March; however, the late-February interface has been the more troublesome persistent layer. It's composed of facets, crust, and surface hoar roughly 70-140 cm deep and is still reactive throughout the region, especially in shallower areas around Stewart and Bear Pass. See the Avalanche Summary above for surprising examples of this persistent problem re-awakening.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Variable and unsettled weather has given 5-20cm of new snow in the past few days. Winds have been moderate to STRONG south though westerly, and many exposed surfaces are either heavily scoured or wind-pressed firm. That said, there have been some reports of wind slabs forming on northeast aspects in the south of the region. </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warming and sun have likely left a crust on solar aspects and below 1300 m (reportedly breakable crust below 1000m). Snow from the past week or so has settled into a 20-60 cm thick slab above an older crust interface. Reports suggest the bond to the crust is poor and has resulted in a reactive slab, in addition to weaknesses down 30-35cm within the storm snow itself (giving sudden planar results in snowpack tests).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak sugary snow near the ground has been a dormant instability, but it may still be possible to trigger in steep rocky terrain.</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">Up to 20 cm of new storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. This now brings 30-70 cm of accumulated snow over the past week which overlies the mid-March rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of recent storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. This now brings 30-70 cm of accumulated snow over the past week which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally bonded. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Unsettled weather over the past week has brought roughly 40-50 cm of snow to the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the same period formed a variety crusts within the storm snow at both lower elevations and on solar aspects. This all overlies a rain crust that formed mid-March at all elevations. At upper elevations, above 2100m approximately, the late and mid-February persistent weak layers (100-150cm down) and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still exist. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Up to 5cm of new snow in the past 24hrs. In sheltered areas there is now 25cm of low density snow overlying previous surfaces. On solar aspects there are now various buried crusts. Strong winds today led to further wind slab development in the Alpine and isolated areas at Treeline. Easy shears were observed down 10 and 25cm. The snow was moist this afternoon below 1900m. The middle of the snowpack is generally well settled and dense, while the base of the snowpack consists of over 100cm of depth hoar and facets. Natural avalanche activity has tapered off, but the structure of the snowpack continues to cause concern to forecasters for &quot;low probability, high consequence&quot; avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Additional new snow is expected at alpine elevations tonight and tomorrow. The freezing level is uncertain on Wednesday. Expect to see a mix of rain and snow at tree line and snow in the alpine. This new snow at upper elevations has been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest wind and is sitting on a well settled lower snowpack. Rain below tree line will continue to soak an already moist and/or wet lower snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of recent storm snow has accumulated at upper elevations and is reactive. This now brings 30-70 cm of accumulated snow over the past week which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of recent snow has fallen at upper elevations and caps a sun crust on solar aspects. This brings 20-40 cm of accumulated snow over the past week. This recent snow overlies a widespread crust below 2300 m and higher on solar aspects. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from the SW and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices also exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 90-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">25 cm of new snow overnight and another 10 during the day on Wednesday have developed storm slabs in the alpine that are 30-50 cm thick near Fernie. In the Corbin area, there was a total of 25cm in the last 24 hours. Storm snow is not bonding well to crusts in the alpine and at treeline. Below 1600 metres the snow is moist or wet. Deeply buried facets may spring to life due to the added load of the storm slabs, and the possibility of strong solar radiation over the next couple of days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">A few more cm of new snow overnight, combined with gusty southwest winds has developed new wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline. Over the past several days we've had 10-30 cm of heavy snow at higher elevations, which sits on a thick hard crust that is quite solid above 1700m. Below the new snow and crusts, roughly 50-90 cm of snow sits above the February crust and facet interfaces. In some areas there may still be a poor bond to these interfaces. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads (eg: cornice fall) or warm temperatures (eg: full exposure to the sun). </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">Continued light to moderate snowfall over the past few days has accumulated 30-60cm of storm snow that has been redistributed by predominantly southwest and southeast winds. 2000m and below, the storm snow lies above a crust that formed last week. A rain crust that was buried mid March is now 90-120 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of tree line and into the alpine. This interface is generally 120-170 cm deep but may be present nearer to the surface in wind scoured areas. Although there is growing confidence that this layer is becoming dormant, a storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to trigger any of the deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over the last week have accumulated 40-60cm of new snow in the region. Freezing levels to 2000m or higher and intermittent sun over the same time period created a variety of&nbsp; thin crust layers within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A thick rain crust forming in Mid-March up to the 2100m elevation is down 50-80cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February persistent weak layers may still be found and are down 100-140cm. They include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to develop in the alpine and at treeline. Warm daytime temperatures have created moist snow at treeline and wet snow below treeline. The February 21st persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm, and may be triggered by light additional loads in shallow weak spots adjacent to large terrain features. The snow below treeline may become weak and release as loose wet avlanches or wet slabs in steep unsupported terrain features. Spring conditions may change quickly, especially if the sun pops out during the day and warms the slab above the weak layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light snow combined with moderate southwest winds has developed wind slabs in the alpine and in some exposed treeline locations. Periods of sun and high daytime freezing levels have developed crusts below treeline and on sun exposed terrain at all elevations. The snow may be moist or wet below treeline during the warmest part of the day. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. This now brings 30-70 cm of accumulated snow over the past week which overlies the mid-March rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally well bonded. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of recent storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. This now brings 30-70 cm of accumulated snow over the past week which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At lower elevations, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack which are now generally bonded. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Unsettled weather over the past week has brought roughly 50-80 cm of snow to the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the same period formed a variety crusts within the storm snow at both lower elevations and on solar aspects. This all overlies a rain crust that formed mid-March at all elevations. At upper elevations, above 2100m approximately, the late and mid-February persistent weak layers (100-150cm down) and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still exist. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Another 5 to 10cm of new snow in the past 24hrs. In sheltered areas there is now an average of 30cm of low density snow overlying previous surfaces. On solar aspects there are now various buried crusts. Wind slabs are present in the Alpine and isolated areas at Treeline. Moist snow up to 2200m late in the day. The middle of the snowpack is generally well settled and dense, while the base of the snowpack consists of over 100cm of depth hoar and/or facets. Natural avalanche activity has tapered off, but the structure of the snowpack continues to cause concern to forecasters for &quot;low probability, high consequence&quot; avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The last 48 hours has seen very heavy amounts of precipitation. The freezing level hovered around tree line during that time. Reports from the region have been few and far between, however it can be expected that 70-100cm of snow has fallen at upper elevations. The new snow would have been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest wind and is sitting on a well settled lower snowpack. Rain below tree line has soaked an already moist and/or wet lower snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50 cm of recent storm snow has accumulated at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist from 1800 m and below. This now brings 80-120 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 150-190 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a concern during this stormy period ending with warmer temperatures and sunshine. The snowpack does not adjust well to change, and these deeper weak layers should remain on your radar through the forecast period. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of recent snow has fallen at upper elevations and caps a sun crust on solar aspects. This brings 40-60 cm of accumulated snow over the past week. This recent snow overlies a widespread crust below 2300 m and higher on solar aspects. Alpine wind has recently been strong mainly from the SW and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices also exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. These layers remain a concern during this stormy period ending with warmer temperatures and sunshine. The snowpack does not adjust well to change, and these deeper weak layers should remain on your radar through the forecast period. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to grow at higher elevations. Another 10-15 cm by Thursday morning has made the recent storm total near Fernie 50-70 cm. In the Corbin area, there was a total of 25cm on Wednesday. Storm snow is not bonding well to crusts in the alpine and at treeline. Below 1800 metres the snow is moist or wet. The recent storm snow may be sitting on a crust that developed just before the new snow arrived. This crust may act as a smooth sliding surface when the sun heats the storm slab. Deeply buried facets may spring to life due to the added load of the storm slabs, and the possibility of strong solar radiation over the next couple of days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Thursday in Crowsnest North, the sun was strong in the morning and solar aspects became moist up into the alpine. There was still some dry snow on north aspects in the alpine. A few more cm of new snow overnight, combined with gusty southwest winds has developed new wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline.&nbsp; The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads like cornice falls, or strong solar radiation on a clear day. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A series of snowfalls over the early part of the week accumulated 30-60cm of storm snow that has been redistributed by predominantly southwest and southeast winds. 2000m and below, the storm snow lies above a crust that formed last week. A rain crust that was buried mid March is now 90-120 cm deep. The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of tree line and into the alpine. This layer is generally 120-170 cm deep but may be present nearer to the surface in wind scoured areas. Although there is growing confidence that this layer seems to be becoming dormant, a storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to trigger any of the deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over the last week have accumulated 40-60cm of new snow in the region. Freezing levels to 2000m or higher and intermittent sun over the same time period created a variety of thin crust layers within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. A thick rain crust forming in Mid-March up to the 2100m elevation is down 50-80cm below the surface. In the north of the region, the February persistent weak layers may still be found and are down 100-140cm. They include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to develop in the alpine and at treeline. Warm daytime temperatures have created moist snow at treeline and wet snow below treeline. The February 21st persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm, and may be triggered by light additional loads in shallow weak spots adjacent to large terrain features. The snow below treeline may become weak and release as loose wet avalanches or wet slabs in steep unsupported terrain features. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light snow combined with moderate southwest winds has developed wind slabs in the alpine and in some exposed treeline locations. Periods of sun and high daytime freezing levels have developed crusts below treeline and on sun exposed terrain at all elevations. The snow may be moist or wet below treeline during the warmest part of the day. The Mid-February crust and facet layer was reported to be down 75-90 cm in the Houston Telkwas sled area on Wednesday. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack. This </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions%2Fcbf29455-1552-459e-99e5-ed1409cc3933" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> found the deep weak layer strengthening in the Telkwas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50 cm of recent storm snow has accumulated at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist from 1800 m and below. This now brings 80-120 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 150-190 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a concern during this stormy period ending with warmer temperatures and sunshine. The snowpack does not adjust well to change, and these deeper weak layers should remain on your radar through the forecast period. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of recent storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist from 1800 m and below. This now brings 40-90 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a concern during this stormy period ending with warmer temperatures and sunshine. The snowpack does not adjust well to change, and these deeper weak layers should remain on your radar through the forecast period. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A series of snowfalls throughout the past week accumulated roughly 60-90 cm of new snow in the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the same period formed a variety crusts within the storm snow at both lower elevations and on solar aspects. This all overlies a rain crust that formed mid-March at all elevations. At upper elevations, above 2100m approximately, the late and mid-February persistent weak layers (100-150cm down) and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still exist. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Convective squalls continue to give us 5-10cm/day but these amount can vary by the drainage and also taper rapidly at lower elevations. Windslabs are being observed in Alpine areas along ridgelines and in open terrain. These slabs are 20-30cm thick and are reactive to a skiers weight. At treeline the windslab are very isolated and more stubborn to trigger. Moist snow was observed on Solar aspects up to 2600m and on all aspects below 2100m.&nbsp; Expect to encounter crusts in the upper snowpack on all aspects at lower elevations and on solar aspects up to 2600m. Despite no recent avalanche activity on the deeper weak layers, we consider the consequences of a large avalanche before committing to a slope. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday and Wednesday saw very heavy amounts of precipitation. The freezing level hovered around tree line during that time, however it can be expected that 70-100cm of snow fell at upper elevations. The new snow would have been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest wind and is sitting on a well settled lower snowpack. Rain below tree line has soaked an already moist and/or wet lower snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50 cm of recent storm snow has accumulated at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist from 1800 m and below. This now brings 80-120 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 150-190 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while touchier storm slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as triggers for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of recent snow has fallen at upper elevations and has buried a sun crust on solar aspects. This brings 40-60 cm of accumulated snow over the past week. This recent snow overlies a widespread crust below 2300 m and higher on solar aspects. Alpine wind has recently been strong, mainly from the southwest, and has loaded leeward slopes in exposed terrain at treeline and in the alpine. Large, fragile cornices also exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while touchier wind slabs, storm slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as a trigger for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs in the alpine received a big punch of solar radiation on Friday. Sheltered slopes may continue to be dry and may not be well bonded to the old surface. At treeline and below the snow is moist or wet, and may not get a good re-freeze overnight before another forecast warm day with high freezing levels. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and crust that was buried early in the winter may &quot;wake-up&quot; due to this prolonged warming and recent loading. This deep problem is difficult to forecast, and the best strategy may be to avoid large terrain features until the snowpack cools and adjusts to the recent inputs (ie loading, sun, wind, and temperature fluctuations).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Friday, the sun was strong at higher elevations and the surface snow became moist or wet in the Elk Valley North. Castle Mountain reported 26 cm of new snow overnight, that I suspect must have settled rapidly due to the strong sun and high freezing levels. On Thursday in Crowsnest North, the sun was strong in the morning and solar aspects became moist up into the alpine. There was still some dry snow on north aspects in the alpine. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads like cornice falls, or strong solar radiation on a clear day. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A series of snowfalls over the early part of the week accumulated 30-60cm of storm snow that has been redistributed by predominantly southwest and southeast winds. 2000m and below, the storm snow lies above a crust that formed last week. All this sits above a melt freeze crust that was buried mid March . The mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of tree line and into the alpine. This layer is generally 120-170 cm deep but may be present nearer to the surface in wind scoured areas. Although there is growing confidence that this layer seems to be becoming dormant, a storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to trigger any of the deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Steady light snowfalls over the last week have accumulated 40-60cm of new snow in the region. Freezing levels to 2000m or higher and intermittent sun over the same time period created a variety of thin crust layers within the upper snowpack at lower elevations and on solar aspects. All this sits on a melt freeze crust formed March 21 up to the 2100m elevation. In the north of the region, the February persistent weak layers may still be found in the alpine and are down 100-140cm. They include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to develop in the alpine and at treeline. Warm daytime temperatures have created moist snow at treeline and wet snow below treeline. The February 21st persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm, and may be triggered by light additional loads in shallow weak spots adjacent to large terrain features. The snow below treeline may become weak and release as loose wet avalanches or wet slabs in steep unsupported terrain features. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light snow combined with moderate southwest winds has developed wind slabs in the alpine and in some exposed treeline locations. Periods of sun and high daytime freezing levels have developed crusts below treeline and on sun exposed terrain at all elevations. The snow may be moist or wet below treeline during the warmest part of the day. The Mid-February crust and facet layer was reported to be down 75-90 cm in the Houston Telkwas sled area on Wednesday. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack. This </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions%2Fcbf29455-1552-459e-99e5-ed1409cc3933" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> found the deep weak layer strengthening in the Telkwas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50 cm of recent storm snow has accumulated at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist from 1800 m and below. This now brings 80-120 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 150-190 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while touchier storm slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as a trigger for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of recent storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist from 1800 m and below. This now brings 40-90 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while touchier wind slabs, storm slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as triggers for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A series of snowfalls throughout the past week accumulated roughly 60-90 cm of moist new snow in the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the same period has formed a variety crusts within and/or on the surface of the storm snow up to 2000m. This all overlies a rain crust that was buried on March 21 up into the alpine. This crust is reported to be recently reactive to heavy loads. At upper elevations, above 2100m approximately, the late and mid-February persistent weak layers (100-150cm down) and basal facets in shallow snowpack areas may still exist. There is no recent information on the presence or reactivity of these persistent layers. For this reason it would be prudent to investigate their presence if traveling in the highest alpine areas of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm came in from last night's storm. This new snow settled and quickly bonded as the temps warmed up today. On south aspects and low elevations, the new snow lies on an existing crust and on more polar aspects it rests on drier snow. There was evidence of ongoing wind transport and new windlslabs at treeline and above with a widespread distribution. By early afternoon, any solar aspect had moist snow with some pinwheeling and wet rock from melting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday and Wednesday saw very heavy amounts of precipitation. The freezing level hovered around tree line during that time, however it can be expected that 70-100cm of snow fell at upper elevations. The new snow would have been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest wind and is sitting on a well settled lower snowpack. Rain below tree line has soaked an already moist and/or wet lower snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10 cm of new snow fell over Friday night and Saturday morning, burying a temperature crust at about 1900 metres and below as well as sun crust all the way into the alpine on most solar aspects. The new snow brings recent storm snow totals at upper elevations to 40-60 cm. This storm snow is dry up high and moist at 1800 m and below. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations.</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8"> </span><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 150-190 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while touchier wind slabs, storm slabs, and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as triggers for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow fell over Friday night and Saturday morning, burying temperature crusts below about 1900 metres and sun crusts on most solar aspects at all elevations. The new snow brings recent storm snow totals at upper elevations to 50-60 cm. This snow overlies a widespread crust below 2300 m and higher on solar aspects. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and has been reactive with several avalanches recently releasing on it. It is expected to be most reactive in the alpine where the snowpack remains dry. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have stepped down to these layers recently resulting in very large avalanches. These layers remain a concern while touchier wind slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as triggers for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10cm of new snow is sitting on the newly developed March 31st melt-freeze crust. This crust has been reported to be knife hard  and 5cm thick at higher elevations, tapering down to pencil hard and 3cm thick at 1200 metres. The earlier March crust is now down 40-100 cm. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but they did not become reactive during the latest period of warm weather, rain, and strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Friday, the sun was strong at higher elevations and the surface snow became moist or wet in the Elk Valley North. Castle Mountain reported 26 cm of new snow overnight, that I suspect must have settled rapidly due to the strong sun and high freezing levels. On Thursday in Crowsnest North, the sun was strong in the morning and solar aspects became moist up into the alpine. There was still some dry snow on north aspects in the alpine. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads like cornice falls, or strong solar radiation on a clear day. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-25 cm of new snow from Friday night overlies a widespread new crust which exists on all aspects below 1800 m and into the alpine on sun exposed aspects. Below around 2000 m, there may be multiple old crusts in the upper snowpack including the late-March crust which is now typically down 60-80 cm. The persistent mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This layer is generally 120-170 cm deep but may be closer to the surface in wind scoured areas. Although there is growing confidence that this layer has generally gone dormant, a storm slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to trigger any of the deeply buried weak layers in the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new crust has formed on all aspects below 1800 m and on all sun exposed slopes. Dry snow is being reported on north aspects in the alpine where 40-60 cm has accumulated over the past week. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack. In the north of the region, the February persistent weak layers may still be found in the alpine and are down 100-140cm. They include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm slabs continue to develop in the alpine and at treeline. Warm daytime temperatures have created moist snow at treeline and wet snow below treeline. In the Shames area on Friday there was 12 cm of moist storm snow above the most recent melt-freeze crust. The top 40-60 cm of the snowpack at 1200 metres was reported to be moist, and the late February layer was down 118 cm producing moderate sudden collapse shears. The late February persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm, and may be triggered by light additional loads in shallow weak spots adjacent to large terrain features. The snow below treeline may become weak and release as loose wet avalanches or wet slabs in steep unsupported terrain features. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light snow combined with moderate southwest winds has developed wind slabs in the alpine and in some exposed treeline locations. Periods of sun and high daytime freezing levels have developed crusts below treeline and on sun exposed terrain at all elevations. The snow may be moist or wet below treeline during the warmest part of the day. The Mid-February crust and facet layer was reported to be down 75-90 cm in the Houston Telkwas sled area on Wednesday. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack. This </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions%2Fcbf29455-1552-459e-99e5-ed1409cc3933" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> found the deep weak layer strengthening in the Telkwas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10 cm of new snow fell over Friday night and Saturday morning, burying a temperature crust at about 1900 metres and below as well as sun crust all the way into the alpine on most solar aspects. The new snow brings recent storm snow totals at upper elevations to 40-60 cm. This storm snow is dry up high and moist at 1800 m and below. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 150-190 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while touchier wind slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as a trigger for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of recent storm snow has fallen at upper elevations. The new snow is dry up high and moist at 1800 m and below. This now brings 40-90 cm of accumulated snow which overlies a rain crust below 2000 m or a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. New wind slabs are developing on leeward slopes and behind terrain features and large, fragile cornices exist along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 120-150 cm and woke up during last week's storm with many avalanches stepping down to them. The deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack and a few avalanches and cornice falls have also stepped down to these layers last week resulting in some very large full depth avalanches. These layers remain a real concern while more reactive wind slabs and cornices continue to present the risk of acting as triggers for deeper weaknesses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The new snow on Saturday likely buries a widespread sun crust which is expected to have formed on Friday. This crust caps 60-90 cm of moist snow that has accumulated over the past week in the region. Periodic high freezing levels and solar exposure over the past week has formed a variety crusts in the upper snowpack below around 2000m. This all overlies a rain crust that was buried on March 21 which extends into the alpine. This crust was recently reactive to heavy triggers and several avalanches released on it during the recent solar cycle. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These layers appear to have gone dormant but isolated avalanches could still have the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There was a minimal freeze overnight and light snow (rain at lower elevations) was falling throuhgout the day although accumulations were limited.  Winds did increase out of the west and as a result we can expect the windslab problem to be a bit more widespread in alpine areas.  Overall the mid-pack of the snowpack is fairly strong but its sitting overtop of a weak sugary basal layer that is up to 50cm thick in some areas.  Thin areas are places to avoid where you may be able to trigger this weakness.  At this time of year, the quality of the freeze overnight as well as the temperature and input of solar radiation can have a profound impact on stability.  If there is a poor freeze overnight expect stability to decrease quickly as temperatures warm up.  Pay close attention to the aspect you are travelling on and what is overhead.  Steep solar aspects will decrease in stability quickly as the sun comes out so start early and finish early.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. Freezing levels reached around 1500 m on Saturday with light rain at lower elevations and new snow up high. Sun on Thursday and Friday likely formed a melt-freeze crust on all sun exposed slopes. Dry snow may still exist on the highest north facing slopes in the alpine. Tuesday and Wednesday saw very heavy amounts of precipitation. The freezing level hovered around tree line during that time, however it can be expected that 70-100cm of snow fell at the highest elevations. The new snow would have been redistributed by moderate to strong southwest wind and is sitting on a well settled lower snowpack. Rain below treeline has soaked the snowpack which is expected to be isothermal. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of new snow now overlies a crust below about 2100 metres (higher on solar aspects) and moist snow below about 1800 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a more widespread rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 160 cm to over 2 metres and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases continue to be reported and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of new snow now overlies temperature crusts below about 1900 metres and sun crust all the way into the alpine on solar aspects. This precipitation fell as rain below about 1600 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Expect a wide range of new snow amounts on Monday morning. A total of 5-25 cm of snow could sit above a mixture of crusts and moist snow surfaces that formed during the recent warm and sunny weather. The thick supportive crust was reported to break down below 1600 m with daytime warming on Sunday. The earlier March crust is now down 40-100 cm. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but they did not become reactive during the latest period of warm weather, rain, and strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect a wide range of new snow amounts on Monday morning. The new snow will sit above a mixture of crusts and moist snow surfaces that formed with the recent warm temperatures and solar radiation. Wind slabs are a possible at higher elevations, where the warming effect has been less dramatic. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads like cornice falls, or strong solar radiation on a clear day.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A widespread surface crust is being reported on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. Below around 2000 m, there may be multiple old crusts in the upper snowpack including the late-March crust which is now typically down 60-80 cm. In high north facing terrain, there may be 20-30 cm of new snow which accumulated Friday and Saturday. Recent strong alpine wind from the south has formed wind slabs in the alpine. The persistent mid-February crust/facet layer can still be found at the upper end of treeline and into the alpine. This layer is generally 120-170 cm deep but may be closer to the surface in wind scoured areas. Although there is growing confidence that this layer has generally gone dormant, a wind slab or cornice release in the right location may have the potential to trigger any of the deeply buried weak layers in the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread crust is expected to have formed on all aspects and elevations except for high north facing slopes. Recent strong winds from the south have formed wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack. In the north of the region, the February persistent weak layers may still be found in the alpine and are down 100-140cm. They include a buried surface hoar layer as well as a crust/facet layer. In the southern parts of the region, the mid and lower snowpack are generally well settled and strong.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20-30 cm of recent storm snow is settling at higher elevations. Warm daytime temperatures and sun are creating moist snow at treeline and wet snow below treeline, with reports of 40-60 cm of moist snow at 1200 m around Shames. The late February persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm, and may be triggered by light loads in shallow weak spots. The snow below treeline may become weak and release as loose wet avalanches or wet slabs in steep unsupported terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light snow combined with moderate southwest winds has developed wind slabs in the alpine and in some exposed treeline locations. Periods of sun and high daytime freezing levels have developed crusts below treeline and on sun exposed terrain at all elevations. The snow may be moist or wet below treeline during the warmest part of the day. The February crust and facet layer was reported to be down 75-90 cm in the Houston Telkwas sled area on Wednesday. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack. This </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions%2Fcbf29455-1552-459e-99e5-ed1409cc3933" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">MIN report</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> found the deep weak layer strengthening in the Telkwas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow now overlies a crust below about 2200 metres on (higher on solar aspects) and moist snow below about 1700 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a more widespread rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought up to 40 cm of snow to upper elevations. This storm snow overlies a rain crust below about 2000 metres and a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Several other temperature and or solar crusts are likely to exist within the storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the snowfall formed wind slabs on leeward slopes and promoted the growth of large, fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations. Cornices and wind slabs are also weakened by these warming effects and have the potential to trigger deeply buried weak layers if they release.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region is expected to be entering a period of widespread melt-freeze conditions on all aspects and elevations except for high north facing terrain where the surface snow is expected to remain dry. In high elevation shaded terrain, incremental loading over the past week has formed storm slabs. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there are likely several crust layers in the upper snowpack. A rain crust which was buried on March 21 and extends into the alpine is now down 60-80 cm. This crust was recently reactive to heavy triggers and several avalanches released on it during the solar cycle last week. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These layers appear to have gone dormant but isolated avalanches could still have the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 15cm of new snow fell at Treeline in the past 24hrs. This new snow amount varies from valley to valley, and tends to taper to only a few cm's at lower elevations. Wind slabs are present in Alpine terrain, but are more isolated or absent at Treeline elevations. By early in the afternoon the snow was turning moist at lower elevations and despite the cloudy skies, solar aspects received some heat today. As previously reported the mid-pack remains dense and strong, but the basal layers are very weak consisting of anywhere between 50 and 100cm of facets sitting on the ground. Forecasters still have low confidence for traveling in large Alpine terrain, unless there has been widespread previous avalanching.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. A widespread crust is now expected on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. Where dry snow still exists, recent strong southerly winds have likely formed wind slabs. At lower elevations, recent rain has likely saturated the snowpack which is expected to have become isothermal below the surface crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of recent snow now overlies a crust below about 2100 metres (higher on solar aspects) and moist snow below about 1800 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a more widespread rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 160 cm to over 2 metres and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases continue to be reported and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of recent snow now overlies temperature crusts below about 1900 metres and sun crust all the way into the alpine on solar aspects. This precipitation fell as rain below about 1600 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Daytime warming will create moist surfaces, especially on southerly aspects. 10-20 cm of recent dry snow can be found on northerly aspects above 1700 m. Elsewhere the surface snow is experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle, forming thick supportive crusts overnight and moist snow during the day. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, and did not become reactive during the latest period of warm weather, rain, and strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming will create moist surfaces, especially on southerly aspects. 20-30 cm of recent dry snow can be found on northerly aspects above roughly 2000 m. Elsewhere the surface snow is experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle, forming thick supportive crusts overnight and moist snow during the day. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness remain a concern, and may be triggered by large loads like cornice falls, or strong solar radiation on a clear day.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Widespread melt-freeze conditions are expected on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. On all aspects below around 2000 m and higher on sun exposed slopes, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack including the late-March rain crust which is now typically down 60-80 cm. In high north facing terrain, 20-40 cm of storm snow accumulated over the weekend. Recent strong alpine wind from the south has redistributed this new snow and formed wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline which may overlie a crust. Large cornices exist primarily on north aspects in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread melt-freeze conditions are expected on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent strong winds from the south have formed wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20-30 cm of recent storm snow is settling at higher elevations. Thick supportive crusts are forming overnight below 1300 m and deteriorating throughout the day with warming. The snow below treeline may become weak and release as loose wet avalanches in steep unsupported terrain features. The late February persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm, and may be triggered by light loads in shallow weak spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 20 cm of dry snow may exist on northern aspects above 1300 m, with isolated wind slabs in exposed terrain. Periods of sun and high daytime freezing levels have developed crusts below treeline and on sun exposed terrain at all elevations. The snow may be moist or wet below treeline during the warmest part of the day. The February crust and facet layer was reported to be down 75-90 cm in the Houston Telkwas sled area. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of recent snow now overlies a crust below about 2200 metres on (higher on solar aspects) and moist snow below about 1700 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a more widespread rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought up to 40 cm of snow to upper elevations. This storm snow overlies a rain crust below about 2000 metres and a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Several other temperature and or solar crusts are likely to exist within the storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the snowfall formed wind slabs on leeward slopes and promoted the growth of large, fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations. Cornices and wind slabs are also weakened by these warming effects and have the potential to trigger deeply buried weak layers if they release.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region is expected to have entered a period of widespread melt-freeze conditions on all aspects and elevations except for high north facing terrain where the surface snow is expected to remain dry. In high elevation terrain, recent strong southwest winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there are likely several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. A rain crust which was buried on March 21 extends into the alpine is now down 60-80 cm. This crust was the bed surface for several avalanches during the solar cycle at the end of last week. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These deep weak layers appear to have gone dormant but an isolated avalanche or cornice fall still has the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 10cm of new snow at Treeline in the past 24hrs, with much less at lower elevations. This snow was turning moist on solar aspects by late morning, and by tomorrow morning should be frozen into another in a series of previously formed crusts on these solar slopes. On polar aspects between 20 and 30cm of dry snow is currently on the surface, but buried crusts are found at lower elevations. Wind slabs are widespread in the Alpine on all aspects, but are more isolated at Treeline. Not much natural avalanche activity has occurred with these wind slabs, but many areas like ripe for human-triggering. As previously reported the mid-pack remains dense and strong, but the basal layers are very weak consisting of anywhere between 50 and 100cm of facets sitting on the ground. Forecasters still have low confidence for traveling in large Alpine terrain, unless there has been widespread previous avalanching.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. A widespread crust is now expected on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. Where dry snow still exists, recent strong southerly winds have likely formed wind slabs. At lower elevations, recent rain events have likely saturated the snowpack which is expected to be isothermal below the surface crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of recent snow now overlies a crust below about 2100 metres (higher on solar aspects) and moist snow below about 1800 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a more widespread rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 160 cm to over 2 metres and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases continue to be reported and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of recent snow now overlies temperature crusts below about 1900 metres and sun crust all the way into the alpine on solar aspects. This precipitation fell as rain below about 1600 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack has entered a daily melt-freeze cycle. Hard crusts form overnight and become moist surface snow during the heat of the day. The exception is north-facing alpine terrain, where dry snow and isolated wind slabs may exist. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but have not been reactive for a few weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack has entered a daily melt-freeze cycle. Hard crusts form overnight and become moist surface snow during the heat of the day. The exception is north-facing alpine terrain, where about 20 cm of dry snow and isolated wind slabs may exist. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets and full-depth avalanches over this basal weakness could be possible with a heavy trigger such as a cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Widespread melt-freeze conditions are expected on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. On all aspects below around 2000 m and higher on sun exposed slopes, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack including the late-March rain crust which is now typically down 60-80 cm. Expect to see another 10-20cm of new snow from Tuesday night sitting on the old snow surfaces above the 1300m elevation band. Moderate alpine wind from the south will have redistributed this new snow and formed additional wind slabs in the alpine and at tree line which may overlie a crust. Large cornices exist primarily on north aspects in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-15cm of new snow falling at upper elevations Tuesday night into Wednesday is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent strong winds from the south have formed new wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong winds and 20-40 cm of new snow will form fresh storm slabs above 1200 m. At lower elevations, rain will weaken the snow and release loose wet avalanches in steep unsupported terrain features. On shaded aspects above 1300 m, the new snow is burying 20-30 cm of old storm snow. Elsewhere, a mixture of crusts and moist snow surfaces exist from recent melt-freeze cycles. The late February persistent weak layer continues to be a concern for triggering large avalanches. This combination of crust and weak facets is now down 100-150 cm. Recent snowpack tests at the May Creek area found moderate sudden results on the layer on a east aspect around 1200 m. The layer could still be triggered by light loads in shallow weak spots.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong winds with light amounts of new snow will form fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain. Rain and warm temperatures up to 1400 m will soften the snow at lower elevations. Crusts may be found at higher elevations, particularly on sun-exposed slopes. The February crust and facet layer was reported to be down 75-90 cm in the Houston Telkwas sled area. The deep persistent weak layer of facets and/or a crust that were buried early in the winter are still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of recent snow now overlies a crust below about 2200 metres (higher on solar aspects) and moist snow below about 1700 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. 90-130 cm of accumulated snow now overlies a more widespread rain crust below 2000 m and sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations</span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought up to 40 cm of snow to upper elevations. This storm snow overlies a rain crust below about 2000 metres and a sun crust on solar aspects at higher elevations. Several other temperature and or solar crusts are likely to exist within the storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the snowfall formed wind slabs on leeward slopes and promoted the growth of large, fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, the February weak layers are down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations. Cornices and wind slabs are also weakened by these warming effects and have the potential to trigger deeply buried weak layers if they release.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region is expected to have entered a period of widespread melt-freeze conditions on all aspects and elevations except for high north facing terrain where the surface snow is expected to remain dry. In high elevation terrain, recent strong southwest winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there are likely several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. A rain crust which was buried on March 21 extends into the alpine is now down 60-80 cm. This crust was the bed surface for several avalanches during the solar cycle at the end of last week. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These deep weak layers appear to have gone dormant but an isolated avalanche or cornice fall still has the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A clear and cold night brought a good surface freeze to the snowpack overnight, but that changed quickly on steep solar aspects where snow was moist by late morning. Solar aspects have a variety of buried crusts, whereas polar aspects above 2100m have an average of 20cm of dry snow sitting on a variety of previous surfaces. Wind slabs are present everywhere in the Alpine except in sheltered features. Not much natural avalanche activity has occurred with these wind slabs, but many areas like ripe for human-triggering. As previously reported the mid-pack remains dense and strong, but the basal layers are very weak consisting of anywhere between 50 and 100cm of facets sitting on the ground. Forecasters still have low confidence for traveling in large Alpine terrain, unless there has been widespread previous avalanching.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. A weather system arriving Tuesday night is expected to bring mix of rain and snow. In the highest elevations within the region there may be as much as 50cm of snow accumulation. This more than likely sits on a widespread crust on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine.  At lower elevations, rain will saturate an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is forecast to develop new storm slabs in the alpine and at treeline. These new storm slabs are developing above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts on solar aspects in the alpine, and all aspects at treeline. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. The biggest problem lately has been large and fragile cornices that have regularly fallen off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have been released with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation or from heavy loading from storm snow. Expect cornices to experience new fragile growth during the next few stormy days.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-15 cm of recent snow now overlies temperature crusts below about 1900 metres and sun crust all the way into the alpine on solar aspects. This precipitation fell as rain below about 1600 metres. Below the new snow interface, storms over the past week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack has entered a daily melt-freeze cycle. Hard crusts form overnight and become moist surface snow during the heat of the day. The exception is north-facing alpine terrain, where dry snow and isolated wind slabs may exist. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but have not been reactive for a few weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack has entered a daily melt-freeze cycle. Hard crusts form overnight and become moist surface snow during the heat of the day. The exception is north-facing alpine terrain, where about 20 cm of recent dry snow and isolated wind slabs may exist. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for a few weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20-30cm of new snow at upper elevations sits on widespread melt-freeze crusts on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. On all aspects below 2000 m and higher on sun exposed slopes, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack. Moderate to strong alpine wind from the south will have redistributed this new snow and formed additional wind slabs in the alpine and at tree line which may overlie a crust. Large overhanging cornices exist primarily on north aspects in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 5 to 15cm of new snow is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent strong winds from the south have formed new wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer seem to have become reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near the Duffey Lakes and Birkenhead Lake.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Touchy wind slabs exist as higher elevations, as Tuesday night's storm delivered 15-20 cm of snow above 1000 m with strong to extreme winds. Extensive wind affect is expected in exposed terrain. An overnight freeze will likely form a crust at lower elevations that will deteriorate with the heat of the day. It may still be possible to trigger a large avalanche on the late February persistent weak layer. This combination of weak facets and crusts is buried 100-150 cm deep. Recent snowpack tests found moderate sudden results on the layer in the May Creek area on an east aspect around 1200 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong winds with light amounts of snow formed fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain on Wednesday. Elevations below about 1200 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle. Hard crusts form overnight and become moist during the heat of the day. Hard crusts may be found at higher elevations, particularly on slopes that were sun-exposed. The February crust and facet layer is 75-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and the deep persistent weak facet layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is forecast to develop new storm slabs in the alpine and at treeline. These new storm slabs are developing above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts on solar aspects in the alpine, and all aspects at treeline. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. The biggest problem lately has been large and fragile cornices that have regularly fallen off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have been released with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation or from heavy loading from storm snow. Expect cornices to experience new fragile growth during the next few stormy days.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is forecast to develop new storm slabs in the alpine and at treeline. These new storm slabs are developing above a mix of old surfaces, that include melt-freeze crusts on solar aspects in the alpine, and all aspects at treeline. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. The biggest problem lately has been large and fragile cornices, that have regularly fallen off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have been released with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation or from heavy loading from storm snow. Expect cornices to experience new fragile growth during the next few stormy days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region is expected to have entered a period of widespread melt-freeze conditions on all aspects and elevations except for high north facing terrain where the surface snow is expected to remain dry. In high elevation terrain, recent strong southwest winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there are likely several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. A rain crust which was buried on March 21 extends into the alpine is now down 60-80 cm. This crust was the bed surface for several avalanches during the solar cycle at the end of last week. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These deep weak layers appear to have gone dormant but an isolated avalanche or cornice fall still has the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A clear and cold night brought a good surface freeze to the snowpack overnight, but that changed quickly on steep solar aspects where snow was moist by late morning. Solar aspects have a variety of buried crusts, whereas polar aspects above 2100m have an average of 20cm of dry snow sitting on a variety of previous surfaces. Wind slabs are present everywhere in the Alpine except in sheltered features. Not much natural avalanche activity has occurred with these wind slabs, but many areas like ripe for human-triggering. As previously reported the mid-pack remains dense and strong, but the basal layers are very weak consisting of anywhere between 50 and 100cm of facets sitting on the ground. Forecasters still have low confidence for traveling in large Alpine terrain, unless there has been widespread previous avalanching.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. The latest storm Tuesday night through Wednesday brought a mix of rain and snow. In the highest elevations within the region there may be as much as 50cm of snow accumulation. This more than likely sits on a widespread crust on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. At lower elevations, rain has saturated an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is forecast to continue developing new storm slabs in the alpine and at treeline on Friday. These new storm slabs are developing above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts on solar aspects in the alpine, and all aspects at treeline. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. The biggest problem lately has been large and fragile cornices that have regularly fallen off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have been released with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation or from heavy loading from storm snow. Expect cornices to experience new fragile growth on Friday.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light new snow amounts have begun to bury melt-freeze crusts that exist on the snow surface on all aspects below about 2200 metres and all the way into the alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, storms from last week brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Moderate to strong southwest winds during and since the storm formed wind slabs on leeward slopes as well as fragile cornices along ridgelines. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as solar radiation and warming temperatures begin to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate rainfall is expected at least up to treeline on Friday. Rain falling on a warm snowpack has the potential to produce loose wet avalanches in any steep terrain. At higher elevations, new snow and wind will form fresh wind slabs and cornices will grow bigger. The snowpack is well settled and transitioning into spring conditions. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but have not been reactive for a few weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate rainfall is expected at least up to treeline on Friday. Rain falling on a warm snowpack has the potential to produce loose wet avalanches in any steep terrain. At higher elevations, new snow and wind will form fresh wind slabs and cornices will grow bigger. The snowpack is well settled and transitioning into spring conditions. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for a few weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">25-40cm of new snow at upper elevations sits on widespread melt-freeze crusts on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. On all aspects below 2000 m and higher on sun exposed slopes, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack. Moderate to strong alpine wind from the south will have redistributed this new snow and formed additional wind slabs in the alpine and at tree line which may overlie a crust. Large overhanging cornices exist primarily on north aspects in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 10 to 20cm of new snow is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent strong winds from the south have formed new wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer seem to have become reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near the Duffey Lakes and Birkenhead Lake.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Touchy wind slabs may still exist at higher elevations, as Wednesday's storm delivered 15-20 cm of snow above 1000 m with strong to extreme winds. Extensive wind affect is expected in exposed terrain. An overnight freeze will likely form a crust at lower elevations that will deteriorate with the heat of the day. A weak layer of facets and crusts is buried 100-150 cm deep. The layer has been unreactive recently, but a heavy trigger such as a cornice fall or intense warming may still be able to trigger it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong winds with light amounts of snow formed fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain on Wednesday. Elevations below about 1300 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle. Hard crusts form overnight and become moist during the heat of the day. Hard crusts may be found at higher elevations, particularly on slopes that were sun-exposed. The February crust and facet layer is 70-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and a deep persistent faceted weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is forecast to continue developing new storm slabs in the alpine and at treeline on Friday. These new storm slabs are developing above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. The biggest problem lately has been large and fragile cornices that have regularly fallen off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 160-200 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have been released with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation or from heavy loading from storm snow. Expect cornices to experience new fragile growth during the next few stormy days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light new snowfall will continue over Thursday night, combining with moderate south winds to form new wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline. These new wind slabs are developing above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. The biggest problem lately has been large and fragile cornices that have been releasing naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have recently produced large avalanches with heavy triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation or from heavy loading from storm snow. Cornices will be building fragile new growth during the next few stormy days.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region is expected to have entered a period of widespread melt-freeze conditions on all aspects and elevations except for high north facing terrain where the surface snow is expected to remain dry. In high elevation terrain, recent strong southwest winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there are likely moist or wet snow sitting on top of several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. A rain crust which was buried on March 21 extends into the alpine is now down 60-80 cm. This crust was the bed surface for several avalanches during the solar cycle at the end of last week. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These deep weak layers appear to have gone dormant but an isolated avalanche or cornice fall still has the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain up to 2300m on Thursday with light flurries above this elevation. There was a very minimal freeze overnight on Wednesday and as a result, the top 10-20cm of the snow is wet. Above 2300m there is a widespread crust on solar aspects up to 2600m. Northern aspects are still holding dry snow but we have certainly transitioned into the time wherein if you want dry snow, you must be on a true north aspect. The windslabs seem to be only found in isolated alpine areas but we are still getting moderate sudden collapse sheers in the basal facets down 150-180cm. Pin wheeling was observed on all aspects up to 2500m so ski quality is taking a turn for the worse. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. The latest series of storms have brought mostly rain and wet snow to the only the uppermost elevations within the region. In these highest elevations within the region there may be as much as 80cm of snow accumulation. This more than likely sits on a widespread crust on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. At lower elevations, rain has saturated an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-40 cm of new snow has formed fresh storm slabs on the surface after Thursday and Friday's snowfall. These new storm slabs developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. In addition to storm slab formation, the new snow has also contributed to fragile new cornice growth. Cornices have been a primary avalanche problem in the past week, with recent reports of cornices falling off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have recently produced large avalanches with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light new snow amounts and moderate winds (mainly from the south) have formed fresh wind slabs on the snow surface at higher elevations. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, last week's storms brought 40-60 cm of snow to the region. Several other crusts as well as moist snow are likely to exist within this storm snow, mainly at lower elevations and on solar aspects. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as warming temperatures continue to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_1681A555">The freezing level on Friday was hovering around 2200m in most areas. Slight cooling overnight coupled with mostly cloudy skies will likely result in the formation of a thin surface crust that will break down during the day on Saturday. At higher elevations, new snow and wind have likely formed small wind slabs and cornices remain large and looming. The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but have not been reactive for a few weeks.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">The freezing level on Friday was hovering around 2200m in most areas. Slight cooling overnight coupled with mostly cloudy skies will likely result in the formation of a thin surface crust that will break down during the day on Saturday. At higher elevations, new snow and wind have likely formed small wind slabs and cornices remain large and looming. The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack.</span><span class="s_3FE45715"> The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for a few weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50cm of new snow at upper elevations sits on widespread melt-freeze crusts that exist on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. On all aspects below 2000 m and higher on sun exposed slopes, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack. Moderate to strong alpine wind from the south will have redistributed the new snow and formed additional wind slabs in the alpine and at tree line. Large overhanging cornices exist primarily on north aspects in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 15-25cm of new snow is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent strong winds from the south have formed new wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer seem to have become reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near Duffey and Birkenhead Lakes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-15 cm of new snow with light to moderate southerly winds are forecast for Saturday.  This will form small wind slabs in lee features. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds earlier in the week. A weak layer of facets and crusts are buried 100-150 cm down. The layer has been unreactive recently, but a heavy trigger such as a cornice fall or intense warming may still have the potential to trigger it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">5-10 cm of new snow with light to moderate southerly winds are forecast for Saturday. This will form small wind slabs in lee features. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds earlier in the week.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> Elevations below about 1300 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle. The February crust and facet layer is 70-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and a deep persistent faceted weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 20-40 cm of new snow has formed fresh storm slabs on the surface after Thursday and Friday's snowfall. These new storm slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. In addition to storm slab formation, the new snow has also contributed to fragile new cornice growth. Cornices have been a primary avalanche problem in the past week, with recent reports of cornices breaking off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have recently produced large avalanches with large triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfall combined with moderate winds (mainly from the southwest) to form new wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline. These new wind slabs have been developing above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. In some areas the new snow may hide some lingering wind slabs that are left from the last stormy period. Cornices have been a primary avalanche problem in the past week, with recent reports of cornices breaking off naturally with loading from wind, or due to warming from direct sun or daytime heating. The February weak layers are down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers have recently produced large avalanches with heavy triggers like cornice falls, and they may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A series of Pacific frontal systems have passed through the region in past few days accumulating 15-25cm of moist new snow tree line and above. In high elevation terrain, recent moderate southwest winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there are likely moist or wet snow sitting on top of several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. A rain crust which was buried on March 21 extends into the alpine is now down 60-80 cm. This crust was the bed surface for several avalanches during the solar cycle at the end of last week. At elevations above around 2100m, the February persistent weak layers may still be lingering down around 100-150cm and weak basal facets may still be lingering in shallow snowpack areas. These deep weak layers appear to have gone dormant but an isolated avalanche or cornice fall still has the potential to step down in the right conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rain continued on friday up to 2500m and continued light flurries above this elevation. There was a very minimal freeze overnight on thursday and as a result, the top 10-30cm of the snow is wet.  Above 2300m there is a widespread crust on solar aspects up to 2600m. Northern aspects are still holding dry snow but we have certainly transitioned into the time wherein if you want dry snow, you must be on a true north aspect and high into the alpine. The windslabs seem to be only found in isolated alpine areas but we are still getting moderate sudden collapse sheers in the basal facets down 150-180cm. Pin wheeling was observed on all aspects up to 2500m so ski quality is taking a turn for the worse. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. The latest series of storms are expected to have brought wet snow to only the uppermost elevations within the region. In these highest elevations there may be as much as 100+cm of new snow accumulation. This more than likely sits on a widespread crust on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. At lower elevations, rain has saturated an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-40 cm of new snow has formed fresh storm slabs on the surface after a series of storms over the end of the week. These new storm slabs developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. In addition to storm slab formation, the new snow has also contributed to fragile new cornice growth. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have been redistributing new snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and these deeply buried weaknesses remain a serious concern as warming temperatures continue to penetrate the snowpack at increasingly higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_1681A555">10-15 cm of new snow and moderate southwesterly winds have created thin wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. Cornices are large, looming, and best avoided. The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, </span><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas</span><span class="s_1681A555">. The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but these deep persistent weaknesses have not been reactive for several weeks. However, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, like a cornice, could trigger this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_A8FEC758">10 cm of new snow with strong, southerly winds have created small wind slabs in lee features below alpine ridgetops. A surface crust up to 2300 m. will break down with daytime warming. Cornices remain large, looming, and are best avoided. The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas. The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for several weeks. However, a large trigger, like a cornice, or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50cm of new snow from the last week at upper elevations sits on widespread melt-freeze crusts that exist on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. On all aspects below 2000 m and higher on sun exposed slopes, there may be multiple crust layers in the upper snowpack. Moderate to strong alpine wind from the south will have redistributed the new snow and formed additional wind slabs in the alpine and at tree line. Large overhanging cornices exist primarily on northerly aspects in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Anywhere from 15-25cm of new snow is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent moderate winds from the south have formed new wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer seemed to have become reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) earlier in the week at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near Duffey and Birkenhead Lakes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_A8FEC758">10-15 cm of new snow on Saturday with light to moderate southerly winds may have created small wind slabs on lee features below ridgetops. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds earlier in the week. A weak layer of facets and crusts are buried 100-150 cm down. The layer has been unreactive recently, but rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, such as a cornice, may still have the potential to trigger it.</span></p><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_1681A555">5-10 cm of new snow on Saturday with light southerly winds may have created small wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds earlier in the week. Elevations below roughly 1300 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely isothermal. The February crust and facet layer is 70-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and a deep persistent faceted weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-40 cm of new snow has formed fresh storm slabs on the surface after a series of storms over the end of the week. These new storm slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. In addition to storm slab formation, the new snow has also contributed to fragile new cornice growth. Below the new snow, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have been redistributing new snow from the past few days into wind slabs on a range of aspects in the alpine and at treeline. These new wind slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. Below the new snow, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A series of Pacific frontal systems have passed through the region in the latter half of last week accumulating 15-25cm of moist new snow tree line and above. In high elevation terrain, recent moderate southerly winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there is likely moist or wet snow sitting on top of several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Last night saw up to 7cm of new snow across the forecast region. Higher temperatures than expected today quickly settled that new snow. In general, the snowpack lost 2cm in height, but lower elevations likely lost more than that. Late afternoon heat made for moist snow up to 2300m, and higher on solar aspects. Despite the warm weather, snow was wind blown in the alpine. Pockets of windslabs will continue to grow as the winds keep up. The new slabs will be somewhat random in terms of aspect and location. Winds appeared to be variable. A few cornice collapses were noted today with cornice growth ongoing.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack observations have been very limited and confidence is low. The latest series of storms are expected to have brought wet snow to only the uppermost elevations within the region. In these highest elevations there may be as much as 100+cm of new snow accumulation. This more than likely sits on a widespread crust on all aspects and elevations except for north facing terrain in the alpine. At lower elevations, rain has saturated an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-40 cm of new snow has blanketed upper elevations of the region after a series of storms over the end of the week. The new snow sits above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. Yet another deep release was reported in the region on Saturday. This activity, although growing more sporadic, is keeping these layers an ongoing concern. They may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have redistributed new snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and early April, keeping these layers an ongoing concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Since Saturday morning, 10-17 cm of new snow has fallen at treeline and above. This new snow sits on a very hard crust up to 1400m (on north aspects) and up to 1700m (on south aspects). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate southwesterly winds have created wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. Cornices are large, looming, and best avoided. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but these deep persistent weaknesses have not been reactive for several weeks. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, like a cornice, could trigger this layer.</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">On Saturday into Sunday, 5-15cm of new snow fell above treeline with southerly winds. Small wind slabs have formed in lee features below alpine ridgetops. The new snow fell on a firm crust up to 2100m (on north aspects) and 2400m (on south aspects), and may slide easily on this layer.&nbsp; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cornices remain large, looming, and are best avoided. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for several weeks. That said, a large trigger like a cornice, or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</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">Recent snow in the last few days built wind slabs, primarily on northerly aspects at alpine and treeline elevations. They should stabilize quickly with warm temperatures but isolated wind slabs behind ridges and similar terrain may linger. Expect multiple crusts in the upper snowpack, especially on southerly facing (sunny) slopes. Thin crusts with facets above are possible; southerly aspects are complex and hard to forecast. Personally, I'd try to avoid them until corn season. Finally cornices are large and remain a concern: yesterday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Anywhere from 15-25cm of new snow is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Recent moderate winds from the south have formed new wind slabs in the alpine and have added load to cornices. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer seemed to have become reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) earlier in the week at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near Duffey and Birkenhead Lakes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Small amounts of new snow (up to 8cm) fell on Saturday with light to moderate southerly winds. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds earlier in the week, or melt-freeze crusts below 1400m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer of facets and crusts from late February are buried 100-120 cm down. The layer has been unreactive recently and has a variable distribution. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, such as a cornice, may still have the potential to trigger it.</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">Small amounts of new snow (3-5cm) fell on Saturday. Winds were light to moderate (south through northeast) and may have created small wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds earlier in the week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Elevations below roughly 1300 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely isothermal. The February crust and facet layer is 70-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and a deep persistent faceted weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all 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">30-40 cm of new snow blanketed the region after a series of storms over the end of last week. The new snow buried a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain an ongoing concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds redistributed new snow from the past few days into wind slabs on a range of aspects in the alpine and at treeline. These wind slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also developed along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In high elevation terrain, recent moderate southerly winds and new snowfall has formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there is likely moist or wet snow sitting on top of several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-15cm of snow over the past 24hr from convective flurries.  On solar aspects there are a few different crusts in the upper snowpack down 10-30cm as a result of the warm temperatures.  These crusts can be found up to 2700m on solar aspects and 2100m and below on all aspects.  On more northern aspects the recent snow has seen some isolated wind affect along ridgelines in the alpine but generally, the winds have been light.  Watch for isoalted windslabs along ridgelines.  Deep down the basal facets are still lurking producing moderate sudden collapse sheers.  Despite it starting to look like spring, the snowpack in the alpine is still very much winter like.  Remember any slope that hasnt released still has the potential to run on these basal facets resulting in a large avalanche.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Saturday's cold stormy weather brought snow to the mountains as low as 800m. It's still winter up high! Sunday was a calmer and dryer day but isolated lingering wind slabs remain a concern. At lower elevations, rain has saturated an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of new snow has added to the 30-40 cm of recent snow that blanketed upper elevations of the region late last week. The recent snow sits above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. Yet another deep release was reported in the region on Saturday. This activity, although growing more sporadic, is keeping these layers an ongoing concern. They may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have redistributed new snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and early April, keeping these layers an ongoing concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Since Saturday morning, 10-25 cm of new snow has fallen at treeline and above. The sun on Monday made snow surfaces moist and should stabilize quickly after an overnight refreeze. This new snow sits on a very hard crust up to 1400m (on north aspects) and up to 1700m (on south aspects).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate southwesterly winds have created wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. Cornices are large, looming, and best avoided.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but these deep persistent weaknesses have not been reactive for several weeks. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, like a cornice, could trigger this layer.</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">Over the past few days, 10-25cm of new snow fell above treeline with southerly winds. Small wind slabs have formed in lee features below alpine ridgetops. The new snow fell on a firm crust up to 2100m (on north aspects) and 2400m (on south aspects), and may slide easily on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cornices remain large, looming, and are best avoided.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for several weeks. That said, a large trigger like a cornice, or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</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">Recent snow in the last few days built wind slabs, primarily on northerly aspects at alpine and treeline elevations. They should stabilize quickly with warm temperatures but isolated wind slabs behind ridges and similar terrain may linger. Expect multiple crusts in the upper snowpack, especially on southerly facing (sunny) slopes. Thin crusts with facets above are possible making southerly aspects complex and harder to forecast. Cornices are large and remain a concern: yesterday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. Sunshine and solar radiation can quickly weaken snow on solar facing slopes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Anywhere from 15-25cm of new snow is sitting on a widespread melt-freeze crust that exists on all aspects and elevations except for high elevation north facing terrain. Previous moderate winds from the south formed wind slabs in the alpine and added load to cornices. Cornices remain but windslabs have likely bonded. On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer remain reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near Duffey and Birkenhead Lakes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Small amounts of new snow (up to 10cm) fell in the past few days with light to moderate southerly winds. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds last week, or melt-freeze crusts below 1400m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sunny breaks and warmer temperatures on Monday has likely left a supportive temperature crust on all aspects up to treeline. North facing alpine slopes reportedly have up to 10cm dry powder, on a firm crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A weak layer of facets and crusts from late February are buried 100-120 cm down. The layer has been unreactive recently and has a variable distribution. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, such as a cornice, may still have the potential to trigger it.</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">Small amounts of new snow (3-5cm) fell in the past three days. Winds were light to moderate (south through northeast) and may have created small wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Elevations below roughly 1300 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely isothermal. The February crust and facet layer is 70-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and a deep persistent faceted weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all 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">5-15 cm of new snow added to the 30-40 cm of recent snow from a series of storms over the end of last week. The recent snow buried a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain an ongoing concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds redistributed new snow from the past few days into wind slabs on a range of aspects in the alpine and at treeline. These wind slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also developed along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In exposed high elevation terrain, recent moderate southerly winds and new snowfall have formed wind slabs in leeward features. At lower elevations and on sun exposed slopes, there is likely moist or wet snow sitting on top of several well bonded crust layers in the upper snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">An additional 10cm of new snow at Treeline overnight. This sits on a supportive crust on solar aspects and on all aspects below 2100m. On sheltered polar aspects above 2100m recent snow falls now sit at 25 to 30cm, which sluffs easily with ski cutting in steep terrain. Isolated pockets of wind slab were observed in the Alpine. Surface snow was moist by late morning on direct solar aspects at 2500m, and at lower elevations moist snow was observed on all aspects. The basal facets are still lurking and have produced moderate sudden collapse shears in recent stability tests. Despite it starting to look like spring, the snowpack in the Alpine is still very much winter like. Remember any slope that hasn't yet released has the potential to fail deep in the snowpack resulting in a large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Saturday's cold stormy weather brought snow to the mountains as low as 800m. Temperatures have warmed slightly but freezing level near 1200m Sunday and Monday means it's still winter up high! Anywhere from 5 to 15 cm of snow fell within the region on Sunday &amp; Monday. With mostly light winds there may be pockets of isolated wind slabs at higher elevations. The depth of recent new snow taper with elevation. At lower elevations, rain has saturated an already wet snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow is 30-50 cm including the snow that fell late lat week. The recent snow sits above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. Yet another deep release was reported in the region on Saturday. This activity, although growing more sporadic, is keeping these layers an ongoing concern. They may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have redistributed new snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and early April, keeping these layers an ongoing concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Since Saturday morning, 15-30 cm of new snow has fallen at treeline and above. The sun on Monday &amp; Tuesday made snow surfaces moist and unstable during the day, but it should stabilize quickly after an overnight refreeze. This new snow sits on a very hard crust up to 1400m (on north aspects) and up to 1700m (on south aspects).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Moderate southwesterly winds have created wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. Cornices are large, looming, and best avoided.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">The December facets and November rain crust are buried deep, but these deep persistent weaknesses have not been reactive for several weeks. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, like a cornice, could trigger this layer.</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">Over the past few days, 15-30cm of new snow fell above treeline with southerly winds. </span><span class="s_1681A555">The sun on Monday &amp; Tuesday made snow surfaces moist and unstable during the day, but it should stabilize quickly after an overnight refreeze (in most areas forming a crust on all aspects up to 2300m).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cornices remain large, looming, and are best avoided.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid snowpack is well settled and continues to transition into a spring snowpack, becoming isothermal at treeline in some areas and below treeline in most areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, but this deep persistent weakness has not been reactive for several weeks. That said, a large trigger like a cornice, or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The forecast snow and wind on Wednesday is expected to create fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. Expect multiple crusts in the upper snowpack, especially on southerly facing (sunny) slopes. Thin crusts with facets above are possible making southerly aspects complex and harder to forecast. Cornices are large and remain a concern: Saturday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. Solar radiation is a common cause of cornice failure and can also quickly trigger loose wet avalanches when new snow sees the sun for the first time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The forecast snow and wind on Wednesday is expected to create fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">On sun exposed slopes and at lower elevations, several crusts likely exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. Both the mid February persistent weak layers and November deep persistent weak layer remain reactive to heavy loads (cornice falls and/or large explosives triggers) at upper elevations in the northern part of the region near Duffey and Birkenhead Lakes. </span><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large and remain a concern: Saturday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. Solar radiation is a common cause of cornice failure and can also quickly trigger loose wet avalanches when new snow sees the sun for the first time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Small amounts of new snow (up to 10cm) fell at higher elevations in the past few days with light to moderate southerly winds. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds last week, or melt-freeze crusts below 1400m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Sunny breaks and warmer temperatures on Sunday &amp; Monday has likely left a supportive temperature crust on all aspects up to treeline. North facing alpine slopes reportedly have up to 10cm dry powder, on a firm crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">A weak layer of facets and crusts from late February are buried 100-120 cm down. The layer has been unreactive recently and has a variable distribution. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, such as a cornice, may still have the potential to trigger it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Small amounts of new snow (3-10cm) fell in the past three days. Winds were light to moderate (south through northeast) and may have created small wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. The new snow will likely be sitting on hard surfaces created by strong winds last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Elevations below roughly 1300 m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely isothermal. The February crust and facet layer is 70-90 cm deep in the Houston Telkwas sled area and a deep persistent faceted weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow is now 30-60 cm including the snow from the end of last week. The recent snow buried a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain an ongoing concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds redistributed new snow from the past few days into wind slabs on a range of aspects in the alpine and at treeline. These wind slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also developed along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow and wind will create fresh wind slabs on lee features at treeline and above. The new snow will be prone to sliding in steep terrain where it is sitting on a crust; especially when daytime warming causes it to transition from dry to moist snow. </span><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No significant new snow last night, only a light dusting in the southern part of the forecast region. Cold dry snow still exists in the high alpine and northern aspects. A significant melt freeze crust is on all aspects up to 2300m, and higher on solar aspects. The cloud cover and cooler temps today helped keep the crust frozen and supportive everywhere except for the valley bottoms. Moist snow by mid afternoon. Tests today revealed no significant shears at treeline elevations, however expect to still find the Dec facets near the bottom of the snow and potentially reactive to human triggering in thin areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-25 mm of precipitation is forecast to fall as snow above roughly 1200 m and as rain below. This means snow in the alpine, rain/snow at treeline, and rain below treeline. Strong southeast winds are expected to accompany the storm and create fresh wind slabs on lee features in the alpine which may be reactive to human triggers. The mix of rain and snow at treeline elevations may create the possibility of loose wet avalanches. Below treeline, rain has saturated an already wet, isothermic snowpack. Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow is 30-50 cm including the snow that fell late lat week. The recent snow sits above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. Yet another deep release was reported in the region on Saturday. This activity, although growing more sporadic, is keeping these layers an ongoing concern. They may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have redistributed new snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and early April, keeping these layers an ongoing concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moist new snow falling on the weekend has been redistributed by moderate southerly winds at upper elevations. This sits on a well developed crust layer that formed up to 1400m on all aspects except south where it formed up to 1700m. The snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Below 1300m the snowpack may be moist or wet through its entire thickness. In the alpine cornices continue to grow large and ever more overhanging. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-30cm of moist new snow accumulating over the weekend above treeline has been redistributed by southerly winds. Cornices remain large, looming, and are best avoided. The mid snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Expect the entire thickness of the snowpack to be moist or wet at lower elevations. At upper elevations, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, however there still is uncertainty to this layer's reactivity. That being said, a heavy load like a cornice fall or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</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">15 cm of new snow with moderate to strong winds from a variety of directions have created fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. Numerous crusts exist in the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Cornices are large and remain a concern: Saturday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. Expect small loose dry avalanches in steep terrain where the new snow is sitting on a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The forecast snow and wind on Wednesday is expected to create fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">On sun solar aspects and at lower elevations, numerous crusts exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. </span><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large and remain a concern: Saturday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10cm of new snow has fallen at higher elevations in the past few days and has now been redistributed by moderate to strong east and southeast winds. At upper elevations the new snow is likely sitting on a hard wind crust created by strong winds last week. At the tree line elevation, warming and re freezing earlier in the week has likely has created a melt freeze crust. Below tree line the surface snow is likely a mix crusts at the upper end of the elevation band to moist or wet snow throughout the entire thickness of the snowpack at the lower portions of the elevation band.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust buried late February is buried 100-120cm. This layer has been unreactive recently and has a variable distribution. That said, rapid warming of the snowpack or a large trigger, such as a cornice, may still have the potential to trigger it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 5-10cm of new snow has fallen in the previous few days. Variable light to moderate wind switching from south to east has redistributed this new snow at upper elevations. This new snow is likely sitting on a hard wind crust created by strong winds last week. Elevations below roughly 1300m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely moist or wet throughout its entire thickness. A persistent weak layer buried late February may be found down approximately 70-100cm and a deep persistent weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow is now 30-60 cm including the snow from the end of last week. The recent snow buried a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts at treeline and below and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain an ongoing concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds redistributed new snow from the past few days into wind slabs on a range of aspects in the alpine and at treeline. These wind slabs have developed above a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts below about 1900 metres and on solar aspects in the alpine. Fragile new cornice growth also developed along ridgelines over the course of the week. Below the new snow, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. The February weak layers are now down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow and shifting wind directions have created fresh wind slabs on a variety of aspects at Treeline and above. The new snow will be prone to sliding in steep terrain where it is sitting on a crust. </span><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 0 and 5cm of new snow at Treeline in the past 25hrs. Isolated pockets of wind slab have been observed in the Alpine on lee and cross-loaded terrain features. The snowpack is settling with the recent warm temperatures. Buried crust are found on all aspects up to 2300m, with numerous layers of crust on solar aspects up to at least 2700m. Moist snow at lower elevations by mid-afternoon. Basal layers remain weak and are still a concern in larger terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-25 mm of precipitation is forecast to fall as snow above roughly 1200 m and as rain below on Wednesday. This means snow in the alpine, rain/snow at treeline, and rain below treeline. Strong southeast winds are expected to accompany the storm and create fresh wind slabs on lee features in the alpine which may be reactive to human triggers. The mix of rain and snow at treeline elevations may create the possibility of loose wet avalanches. Below treeline, rain has saturated an already wet, isothermic snowpack. Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab is now 20-30 cm deep, and the snow arrived with east or southeast winds. The wind is forecast to change to the west, and this may result in reverse loading. This new now is sitting on the 30-50 cm of recent snow from the past week. The new and recent snow are covering a mix of old surfaces, including several crusts on all aspects at treeline and below, and on solar aspects in the alpine. Cornices continue to be reported to be large and fragile, and the have released naturally on a regular basis. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. Yet another deep release was reported in the region on Saturday. This activity, although growing more sporadic, is keeping these layers an ongoing concern. They may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong winds have redistributed new snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations. Fragile new cornice growth also occurred along ridgelines over the course of the week. The new snow has buried melt-freeze crusts on all aspects below about 2200 metres and in the high alpine on solar aspects. Isolated surface hoar may be found below the new snow on shaded aspects at high elevations. Below the new snow interface, a number of storm snow and crust layers that formed over mid to late March appear to be well bonded. At higher elevations, t</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">he February crust/facet layer is now down around 130-150 cm and t</span><span class="s_3FE45715">he deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These layers were active during a storm in mid-March and produced some very large avalanches. Occasional deep releases were also reported in late March and early April, keeping these layers an ongoing concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of new snow fell at upper elevations Wednesday night. Thursday during the day the precipitation fell as rain up to 2000m making the snow surface moist or wet. This adds to moist new snow from the previous weekend and all sits on a well developed crust layer that formed up to 1400m on all aspects except south where it formed up to 1700m. The snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Below 1300m the snowpack may be moist or wet through its entire thickness. In the alpine cornices continue to grow large and ever more overhanging. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-30cm of moist new snow falling throughout the last week above treeline has been redistributed by south and southeast winds. Cornices remain large and continue to become more overhanging. The middle of the snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Expect the entire thickness of the snowpack to be moist or wet at lower elevations. At upper elevations, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, however there still is uncertainty to this layer's reactivity. That being said, a heavy load like a cornice fall or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</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">15-25 cm of new snow with moderate to strong winds from a variety of directions have created fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. Numerous crusts exist in the upper snowpack, especially on solar aspects. Cornices are large and remain a concern: Saturday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. Expect small loose dry avalanches in steep terrain where the new snow is sitting on a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Relatively light amounts of recent snow have created wind slabs in the immediate lee of exposed terrain features at treeline and above. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">On sun solar aspects and at lower elevations, numerous crusts exist in the upper snowpack which are generally well bonded. </span><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large and remain a concern: Saturday's fatal accident near Lions Bay illustrates the danger of them breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10cm of new snow has fallen at higher elevations earlier in the week and has now been redistributed by moderate to strong east and southeast winds. At upper elevations the new snow is likely sitting on a hard wind crust created by strong winds last week. At the tree line elevation, warming and re freezing earlier in the week has likely has created a melt freeze crust. Below tree line the surface snow is likely a mix crusts at the upper end of the elevation band to moist or wet snow throughout the entire thickness of the snowpack at the lower portions of the elevation band.</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">Approximately 5-10cm of new snow has fallen earlier in the week. Variable light to moderate wind switching from south to east has redistributed this new snow at upper elevations. This new snow is likely sitting on a hard wind crust created by strong winds last week. Elevations below roughly 1300m are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely moist or wet throughout its entire thickness. A persistent weak layer buried late February may be found down approximately 70-100cm and a deep persistent weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab is 20-30 cm deep and arrived with east or southeast winds in most areas. The winds are forecast to change to the west, and this may result in some reverse loading and new wind slabs on several aspects. This new snow is sitting on another 30-60 cm of recent snow from the past week. The recent snow buried a mix of old surfaces that include melt-freeze crusts on all aspects at treeline and below, and on solar aspects in the alpine. Cornices are reported to be large and fragile, and reports of natural cornice falls continue on a regular basis. The February weak layers are now down about 170-220 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain an ongoing concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and east winds have developed new wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline. These wind slabs are expected to continue to develop, and may result in reverse loading when the winds change and become westerly. Below the new snow, expect to find a series of crusts on solar aspects due to the recent diurnal melt-freeze cycle before the most recent storm. Cornices are reported to be large and fragile and continue to fall off naturally on a regular basis. The February weak layers are now down about 120-150 cm and the deep mid-December facet layer and November rain crust both still linger near the bottom of the snowpack. These deep weak layers produced large avalanches with cornice falls and other heavy triggers in late March and early April. They remain a concern and may be more likely to fail on southerly aspects during periods of strong solar radiation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow and shifting wind directions have created fresh wind slabs on a variety of aspects at Treeline and above. The new snow will be prone to sliding in steep terrain where it is sitting on a crust. </span><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another 5-10 cm last night and this morning. By mid morning it was already moist below treeline, and by mid day it was moist up to 2200m on all aspects. The underlying crusts are evident on all aspects up to 2100m. By 2200m they are more prevalent on solar aspects. In terms of thickness, below treeline has a 30-40cm crust and the treeline crust is 5-15cm depending on aspect. The weak basal layers are still found with probing and are as widespread as always. The heat really hasn't had much affect in the alpine in terms of stabilizing the mid to lower layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's approximately 20-30 cm of new snow at elevations above 1200 m, with plenty of rain-soaked snow below. The new snow and accompanying southeast winds have set up slab avalanche conditions, particularly on the downwind (northerly and northeasterly) side of ridges and summits. Cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">Recent snow and wind have formed wind slabs in the alpine on a variety of aspects caused by shifting wind directions. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches on facets at the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent snow and wind have formed wind slabs in the alpine on a variety of aspects caused by shifting wind directions. Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on facets at the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of moist new snow fell at upper elevations Wednesday night. Thursday during the day the precipitation fell as rain up to 2000m making the snow surface moist or wet. Subsequent overnight cooling has created thin surface crusts up to 2100m. All this adds to moist new snow from the previous weekend and sits on a well developed crust layer that formed up to 1400m on all aspects except south where it formed up to 1700m. The snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Below 1300m the snowpack may be moist or wet through its entire thickness. In the alpine cornices continue to grow large and ever more overhanging. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moist new snow falling last week above tree line has been redistributed by south and southeast winds. Cornices remain large and continue to become more overhanging. The middle of the snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Expect the entire thickness of the snowpack to be moist or wet at lower elevations. At upper elevations, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, however there still is uncertainty to this layer's reactivity. That being said, a heavy load like a cornice fall or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">We've had 20-40 cm of recent storm snow above 1500m. Winds were moderate to strong from a variety of directions and have created fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">On Sunday the sun will come out in full force - it's a good time to remember that cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail (especially when warmed by the sun). </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">The fatal accident near Lions Bay a week ago illustrates the danger of cornices breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. </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">Relatively light amounts of recent snow (5-15 cm in the past two days) and moderate southerly winds have created wind slabs in the immediate lee of exposed terrain features at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">On Sunday the sun will come out in full force - it's a good time to remember that cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail (especially when warmed by the sun). The fatal accident near Lions Bay a week ago illustrates the danger of cornices breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow at upper elevations from last week has been redistributed east and southeast winds. This may be sitting on a variety of old surfaces including hard wind crusts in exposed terrain and sun crusts on solar aspects. At the tree line elevation, warming and re freezing earlier in the week has likely has created melt freeze crusts. Below tree line the surface snow is likely a mix of crusts at the upper end of the elevation band to moist or wet snow throughout the entire thickness of the snowpack at the lower portions of the elevation band.</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">New snow falling last week has been redistributed by south and east wind at upper elevations. This is likely sitting on a hard wind crust in exposed alpine areas and sun crust on aspects facing the sun. Elevations below 1300m roughly are experiencing a daily melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely moist or wet throughout its entire thickness. A persistent weak layer buried late February may be found down approximately 70-100cm and a deep persistent weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent snow and wind have formed wind slabs in the alpine on a variety of aspects caused by shifting wind directions. Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on facets at the bottom of the snowpack.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Recent snow and wind have formed wind slabs in the alpine on a variety of aspects caused by shifting wind directions. Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on facets at the bottom of the snowpack.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This region experienced a wide variation in snowfall amounts on Thursday - most areas saw 5-10 cm of wet heavy snow above 1600m; however, the Rossland Range was the 'bulls eye' for enhanced convective snowfall and received upwards of 35cm!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snow and shifting wind directions created fresh wind slabs on a variety of aspects at Treeline and above. The new snow will be prone to sliding in steep terrain where it is sitting on a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail.</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">Only a skiff of new snow over the past 24hrs.  Of note the winds were howling (aka strong) out of the SW at higher elevations.  Widespread snow transport was observed in alpine terrain and as a result new windslabs were forming at higher elevations on lee aspects.  Temperatures remained somewhat cool but we did see some moist snow later in the afternoon on solar aspects.  On Thursday the warm temps had moist snow up to 2400m on all aspects.  As a result, surface crusts should be expected in most areas making the skiing challenging. Dry powder snow is pretty much only likely in high alpine areas on North aspects.  On solar aspects, crusts are bing observed up to 2700m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Over the past two days there's been approximately 20-30 cm of new snow at elevations above 1200 m, with plenty of rain-soaked snow below. The new snow and accompanying southeast winds have set up slab avalanche conditions, particularly on the downwind (northerly and northeasterly) side of ridges and summits. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On Sunday the sun will come out in full force - it's a good time to remember that cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail (especially when warmed by the sun). Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on facets at the bottom of the snowpack. Convective showers and moderate southwesterly winds have formed small wind slabs on lee features below ridgetops. Solar radiation is a common trigger for loose wet avalanching in steep terrain, especially when new snow gets heated by the sun for the first time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on facets at the bottom of the snowpack. Convective showers and moderate southwesterly winds have formed small wind slabs on lee features below alpine ridgetops. Solar radiation is a common trigger for loose wet avalanching in steep terrain, especially when new snow gets heated by the sun for the first time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of moist new snow fell at upper elevations Wednesday night. Thursday during the day the precipitation fell as rain up to 2000m making the snow surface moist or wet. Subsequent overnight cooling has created thin surface crusts up to 2100m. All this adds to moist new snow from the previous weekend and sits on a well developed crust layer. The snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Below 1300m the snowpack may be moist or wet through its entire thickness. In the alpine cornices continue to grow large and ever more overhanging. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moist new snow falling last week above tree line has been redistributed by south and southeast winds. Cornices remain large and continue to become more overhanging. The middle of the snowpack is generally well settled and continues to transition into a spring melt/freeze regime. Expect the entire thickness of the snowpack to be moist or wet at lower elevations. At upper elevations, the bottom third of the snowpack is composed of weak facets, however there still is uncertainty to this layer's reactivity. That being said, a heavy load like a cornice fall or rapid warming of the snowpack could potentially trigger this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">We've had 20-30 cm of settling storm snow above 1500m. Winds were moderate to strong from a variety of directions and have created fresh wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">On Sunday the sun will come out in full force - it's a good time to remember that cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail (especially when warmed by the sun). The fatal accident near Lions Bay a week ago illustrates the danger of cornices breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Relatively light amounts of recent snow (10-20 cm in the past three days) have created wind slabs in the immediate lee of exposed terrain features at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">On Sunday the sun will come out in full force - it's a good time to remember that cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail (especially when warmed by the sun). The fatal accident near Lions Bay a week ago illustrates the danger of cornices breaking off, and the large avalanches they can trigger.</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 at upper elevations from last week has been redistributed by winds switching from southwest to east and back again. This may be sitting on a variety of old surfaces including hard wind crusts in exposed terrain and sun crusts on solar aspects. At the tree line elevation, warming and refreezing earlier in the week has created melt freeze crusts. Below tree line the surface snow is likely a mix of crusts at the upper end of the elevation band to moist or wet snow throughout the entire thickness of the snowpack at the lower portions of the elevation band.</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">New snow falling last week has been redistributed by south and east wind at upper elevations. This is likely sitting on a hard wind crust in exposed alpine areas and sun crust on aspects facing the sun. Lower elevations are experiencing a melt-freeze cycle and the snowpack is likely moist or wet throughout its entire thickness. A deep persistent weak layer is still lingering near the bottom of the snowpack in all areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on facets at the bottom of the snowpack. Convective showers and moderate southwesterly winds have formed small wind slabs on lee features below ridgetops. Solar radiation is a common trigger for loose wet avalanching in steep terrain, especially when new snow gets heated by the sun for the first time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555"> Cornices are large, looming, and the primary concern due to their potential to trigger large avalanches failing on sugary facets near the bottom of the snowpack. Convective snow showers and moderate southwesterly winds have formed small wind slabs below alpine ridgetops. Solar radiation is a common trigger for loose wet avalanching in steep terrain, especially when new snow gets heated by the sun for the first time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">This region experienced a wide variation in snowfall amounts on Thursday - most areas saw 5-10 cm of wet heavy snow above 1600m; however, the Rossland Range was the 'bulls eye' for enhanced convective snowfall and received upwards of 35cm! An additional 5-10cm of snow fell above 1500m on Friday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The snow and shifting wind directions created fresh wind slabs on a variety of aspects at Treeline and above. The new snow will be prone to sliding in steep terrain where it is sitting on a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Cornices are large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail.</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">A few cm of snow overnight and throughout the day on Saturday.  This came with strong winds and cool temps and prompted a return to winter.  This snow is overlying widespread crusts on on aspects up to 2200m and on solar aspects up to 2700m.  New windslabs are being encountered in Alpine terrain or N through east aspects as a result of strong winds over the past few days.  Solar aspects have also been blow down to the previous crust in alpine terrain.  100-140cm of settled snow is overlying the weak basal facets.  Moderate to hard sheers persist in these basal facets and are sudden collapse in nature.  There is no hit of the snowpack starting to go isothermal in most areas.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Over the past three days there's been 10-40 cm of new snow at elevations above 1200 m, with plenty of rain-soaked snow below. The new snow and accompanying southeast winds have set up slab avalanche conditions, particularly on the downwind (northerly and northeasterly) side of ridges and summits. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Storm slab and wind slab instabilities are expected to settle rapidly with temperatures near zero. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_DDF6C5E8">On Sunday the sun will come out in full force - it's a good time to remember that cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail (especially when warmed by the sun). Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Between 30 and 45cm of new snow has fallen in the past few days. I'd expect reactive storm slabs to exist in wind-exposed terrain or in places where the recent storm snow has a weak bond with a crust which formed in late November and can be found around 60cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Another feature in the snowpack is a 3-5 cm thick crust which was formed around Halloween and can be found approximately 100cm down at treeline elevations. This layer is generally thought to be stubborn to trigger; however, it may be worth investigating if your travel plans involve large triggers on big, steep, unsupported terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 200+cm in the alpine, 100-180cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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 within this region and 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_A8FEC758">Last week, the November 23rd crust formed as temperatures cooled and the rain-soaked snow surface froze. Since then, 20-60cm of snow has fallen at treeline and above with moderate to strong southwest winds, creating storm slabs sitting on a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Two other layers have been reported in the snowpack: 1) The Halloween crust (down 100cm at treeline elevations) and 2) The November 10th surface hoar / facets (down 80cm at treeline elevations). We have very little information on how reactive these layers are. In fact, we currently have very limited snowpack observations within this entire region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 150+cm in the alpine, 100-150cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of accumulated storm snow has fallen on the crust that formed last week. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 10 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. Reports indicate that the recent storm snow may have a poor bond to the crust. Ridgetop winds are likely redistributing the new snow above treeline and possibly forming wind slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 60-80 cm while a deeper snowpack exists in the alpine. The snowpack remains highly variable in regards to aspect and elevation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack remains highly variable with very little information regarding snowpack structure within the region. Average snowpack depths at upper elevations range from 60-110 cm with scoured snow surfaces on southwesterly slopes and deeper pockets of wind slab on northeasterly slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts that were buried near the end of November approximately 40 cm and 70 cm down. Deeper in the snowpack a third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo and has been identified as a potential sliding interface where snowpack testing North of the region (Kananaskis Country) is proving hard but sudden collapse results. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm new snow now sits on top of a rain crust (or multiple crusts) that formed during the recent wet weather. Strong (southerly) winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths are typically around 150 cm in sheltered treeline locations, although deeper (and shallower) spots certainly exist on account of the strong winds.</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">Approximately 30-40 cm new snow now sits on top of a rain crust that formed during the recent wet weather. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong southerly winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Stubborn wind slabs have formed near ridge crests and lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Treeline snow depths are approximately 100 cm throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent accumulated storm snow amounts are from 100-130cm and sit on a supportive 5-10 cm thick crust that was buried a week ago. The new snow seems to be settling quickly, however; deeper deposits of wind slab may be found on leeward slopes. Digging deeper in the snowpack exists a crust/facet combo buried at the end of October. This crust may exist anywhere from 90 cm-150 cm down. Recent snowpack test results are showing hard compression tests with sudden collapse results. I would keep this on my radar through the weekend to see how the snowpack adjusts to the new load. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine snow surfaces are likely wind affected with the average snowpack depths 80 cm -140 cm at treeline elevations, and up to 160 cm in the alpine. Approximately 30-50 cm of recent snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. Reports indicate that these crusts extend well into the alpine and seem to be supportive to rider traffic. Below these crusts is a well settled mid pack that sits on the late October crust close to the base of the snowpack at all elevations. This late October &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been very reactive to rider triggers producing large avalanches.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Between 30 and 45cm of new snow has fallen in the past few days. I'd expect reactive storm slabs to exist in wind-exposed terrain or in places where the recent storm snow has a weak bond with a crust which formed in late November and can be found around 60cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Another feature in the snowpack is a 3-5 cm thick crust which was formed around Halloween and can be found approximately 100cm down at treeline elevations. This layer is generally stubborn to trigger; however, I'd be increasingly cautious of it in the north of the region where it may remain reactive. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 200+cm in the alpine, 100-180cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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 within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Up to 40cm of new snow has fallen in the past few days. At higher elevations, southerly winds (gusting strong at times) likely redistributed the new snow, forming wind slabs on lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Below the recent storm snow you may find a couple of crusts which formed as a result of last week's rain. That said, little is known about the reactivity of these crusts or the elevation bands at which you're likely to find them. A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which formed around November 11th and can be found approximately 120cm down at treeline elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 200+cm in the alpine, 100-180cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks. We currently have very limited snowpack observations within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">20 - 40cm of new snow has fallen in the past week. At higher elevations, south through west winds (gusting strong at times) redistributed the new snow, forming wind slabs on lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Below the recent storm snow you'll likely find a couple of widespread crusts which formed as a result of last week's rain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Late November's rain really shrunk the snowpack and has transitioned much of the snowpack from dry to moist snow. The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 100-170cm in the alpine, 50-100cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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 within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the alpine the winds have blown the available snow around and in some places exposed the crust, and in others, lee areas have been filled in. From our experiences, the Nov 26th crust is widespread up to 2600m. We haven't been above that elevation, but its thought the crust extends well into the alpine. The blown in areas are wind slabs of various densities. Some areas are very soft slabs, and others are dense and more reactive to skier triggering. Treeline is a similar story, however the crust is consistently buried below 50cm of snow. Total snow height at treeline is 130-140cm The crust is very solid and currently bridging the weaker lower layers. Interestingly, today's snow pit had moist snow from ground up to the base of the November crusts. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">50-70 cm of new snow overlies a crust at treeline elevations. Winds were moderate from the south east, resulting in reactive slabs, especially on lee features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Travel in many places is rugged below treeline, with many open creeks, alder and other early season hazards, although things should be improving with recent new snow. Expect snow depths of around 20 cm at 800 m and around 160 cm at 1200 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_1681A555">Friday night's storm delivered anywhere from 10-25 cm of new snow. Total amounts of snow over the past few days varies from 30-70 cm, with even deeper deposits at higher elevations. In most areas the new snow sits above crusts left over from the warm rainy weather in late November. Some snowpack tests indicate a weak bond between the storm snow and the crusts, which warrants extra caution in big, steep, unsupported terrain. The average snow depth is over 200 cm in the alpine, 100-180 cm at treeline, and decreases rapidly below treeline where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storms delivered 20-40 cm, with deeper wind deposits at higher elevations. The new snow sits above various crusts and moist snow left over from the warm weather in late November. Two deeper layers have been reported including the November 10 surface hoar layer down 80 cm and the Halloween crust down 100 cm. Information on the reactivity of these layers is limited. The average snow depth is over 150 cm in the alpine, 80-150 cm at treeline, and decreases rapidly below treeline where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of accumulated storm snow has fallen on the crust that formed a week ago. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 10 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. Lots of uncertainty exists with the new snow sticking to the crust. Winds are likely redistributing the new snow above treeline and possibly forming wind slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 60-80 cm while a deeper snowpack exists in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack remains highly variable with very little information regarding snowpack structure within the region. Average snowpack depths at upper elevations range from 60-110 cm with scoured snow surfaces on southwesterly slopes and deeper pockets of wind slab on northeasterly slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts that were buried near the end of November approximately 40 cm and 70 cm down. Deeper in the snowpack a third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo and has been identified as a potential sliding interface where snowpack testing North of the region (Kananaskis Country) is proving hard but sudden collapse results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm new snow now sits on top of a rain crust (or multiple crusts) that formed during the wet weather at the end of November. Strong (southerly) winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main areas of concern are lee (northerly) and cross-loaded features in the alpine and treeline elevation bands. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths are typically around 150 cm in sheltered treeline locations, although deeper (and shallower) spots certainly exist on account of the strong winds.</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">Approximately 30-50 cm of new snow now sits on top of a rain crust that formed during the wet weather in late November. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On Saturday, moderate southeast winds in the south (Coquihalla) were reported, whilst moderate southwest winds were reported in the north (Duffey lake zone). The take home message is that southerly winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Stubborn wind slabs have formed near ridge crests and lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Treeline snow depths are approximately 110 cm throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent accumulated storm snow amounts are from 100-130 cm and seem to be settling quickly with average snowpack depths 100-150 cm at treeline elevations. Deeper deposits of wind slab may be found on leeward slopes. This storm snow now sits above a 5-10 cm thick crust that was buried a week ago. Digging down 90-160 cm exists a crust/facet combo buried at the end of October. Recent snowpack test results are showing hard compression tests with sudden collapse results. I would keep this on my radar through the weekend to see how the snowpack adjusts to the new load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine snow surfaces are likely wind affected with average snowpack depths 80 cm -140 cm at treeline elevations, and up to 160 cm in the alpine. Approximately 30-50 cm of recent snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. Reports indicate that these crusts extend well into the alpine. Below these crusts exists a well settled mid pack overlying the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This late October &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been reactive to rider triggers producing large avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday night's storm delivered anywhere from 5-25 cm of new snow. Total amounts of snow over the past few days varies from 30-60 cm, with even deeper deposits at higher elevations. In most areas the new snow sits above crusts left over from the warm rainy weather in late November. Some snowpack tests indicate a weak bond between the storm snow and the crusts, which warrants extra caution in big, steep, unsupported terrain. The average snow depth is over 200 cm in the alpine, 100-180 cm at treeline, and decreases rapidly below treeline where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall amounts vary throughout the region with roughly 20 cm in the north and up to 60 cm in the southeast of the region near Blue River. At higher elevations, southerly winds likely redistributed the new snow and formed wind slabs on lee features. Below the recent storm snow you may find crusts that formed during the rain events in late November. Little is known about depth, distribution, or reactivity of these crusts. Reports suggest the snow depth is over 200 cm in the alpine, 100-150 cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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">30 - 50cm of new snow has fallen in the past week. At higher elevations, south through west winds (gusting strong at times) redistributed the new snow, forming wind slabs on lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Below the recent storm snow you'll likely find a couple of widespread crusts which formed as a result of last week's rain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Late November's rain really shrunk the snowpack and has transitioned much of the snowpack from dry to moist snow. The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 100-170cm in the alpine, 50-100cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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 within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-20cm of recent snow over the past 36hrs with only light winds at the upper elevations.  Windslabs continue to build in the upper snowpack along immediate lees as well as gullied terrain and there have also been a number of loose dry avalanches up to sz 1.  The nov crust is now down 60-80cm and although we are seeing no results on this layer, we are closely watching it for future development.  The oct crust is now down close to 100-120cm and is producing moderate to hard sheers in a weaker facet layer below the crust.  Lots of snow is currently available for transport so winds will be critical to watch over the next 24hrs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Significant amounts of storm snow fell over the past two days, with 50-80 cm of new snow accumulating. That said, the snow appears to be bonding well to a crust (down 70-90cm at treeline elevations) and stabilizing rapidly. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">During the storms, instabilities have generally been short-lived and limited to layers down 20-30cm in the storm snow, or specific lee (northerly) features which saw rapid loading due to south (east) winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Travel has improved below treeline, however, there are still open creeks, alder and other early season hazards. Expect snow depths of around 50 cm at 800 m and around 200 cm at 1200 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed by northwest winds. Roughly 30-70 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Reports suggest the snow is bonding to the crusts so far, but there's potential for this layer to develop into a bigger problem in the near-future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed by westerly winds. Roughly 20-40 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Two deeper layers may be found in the snowpack, including the November 10 surface hoar and the Halloween crust (80 to 100 cm deep). The late November crust is the most likely of these layers to develop into a problem in the near future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50 cm of accumulated storm snow has fallen on the crust that formed a week ago. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 10 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. Lots of uncertainty exists with the new snow sticking to the crust. Winds are likely redistributing the new snow above treeline and possibly forming wind slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 60-80 cm while a deeper snowpack exists in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack remains highly variable with very little information regarding snowpack structure within the region. Average snowpack depths at upper elevations range from 60-110 cm with scoured snow surfaces on southwesterly slopes and deeper pockets of wind slab on northeasterly slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts that were buried near the end of November approximately 40 cm and 70 cm down. Deeper in the snowpack a third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo and has been identified as a potential sliding interface where snowpack testing North of the region (Kananaskis Country) is proving hard but sudden collapse results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of snow from late last week now sits on top of a rain crust (or multiple crusts) that formed during the wet weather at the end of November. Strong (southerly) winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main areas of concern are lee (northerly) and cross-loaded features in the alpine and tree line elevation bands. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths are typically around 150 cm in sheltered tree line locations, although deeper (and shallower) spots certainly exist on account of the strong winds.</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">Approximately 30-50 cm of new snow now sits on top of a rain crust that formed during the wet weather in late November. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Southerly winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Stubborn wind slabs have formed near ridge crests and lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Tree line snow depths are approximately 110 cm throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent accumulated storm snow amounts are from 100-130 cm and seem to be settling quickly with average snowpack depths 100-150 cm at treeline elevations. Deeper deposits of wind slab may be found on leeward slopes. This storm snow now sits above a 5-10 cm thick crust that was buried a week ago. Digging down 90-160 cm exists a crust/facet combo buried at the end of October. Recent snowpack test results are showing hard compression tests with sudden collapse results. I would keep this on my radar through the weekend to see how the snowpack adjusts to the new load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Alpine snow surfaces are likely wind affected with average snowpack depths 80 cm -140 cm at treeline elevations, and up to 160 cm in the alpine. Approximately 30-50 cm of recent snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. Recent snowpack tests have shown sudden planar results at this crust interface. These crusts are widespread and extend well into the alpine. Below these crusts exists a well settled mid pack overlying the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This late October &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been reactive to rider triggers. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed by northwest winds. Roughly 30-70 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Reports suggest the snow is bonding to the crusts so far, but there's potential for this layer to develop into a bigger problem in the near-future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold weather has maintained the low density snow from last week's storms, with the exception of wind affected terrain at higher elevations. Fresh snow amounts vary throughout the region with roughly 20 cm in the north and up to 60 cm in the southeast of the region near Blue River. Below the recent storm snow you may find crusts that formed during the rain events in late November. Little is known about depth, distribution, or reactivity of these crusts. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, 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">30 - 50cm of new snow has fallen in the past week. At higher elevations, south through west winds (gusting strong at times) redistributed the new snow, forming wind slabs on lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Below the recent storm snow you'll likely find a couple of widespread crusts which formed as a result of late November's rain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 100-170cm in the alpine, 50-100cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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 within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few additional cm of new snow overnight and generally light winds except above 2900m where some snow transport was observed. So far the upper snowpack is continuing to settle and we are not seeing any results on the Nov CRs. A weak layer of facetted crystals is being observed below the Halloween crust that is continuing to produce moderate to hard results deeper in the snowpack. In alpine terrain you should expect to encounter pocket of windslabs 30-50cm thick along ridgelines, below cliff faces and along cross loaded slopes. Use caution in these areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Late last week through to Saturday we saw significant storm snow totals, on the order of 80-100cm in the North Shore mountains. That said, all the new snow appears to be bonding well to a crust (down 80-100cm at tree line elevations) and stabilizing rapidly. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Travel has improved below tree line, but there are still open creeks, alder and other early season hazards. Expect snow depths of around 60 cm at 800 m and around 200 cm at 1200 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed into fresh wind slabs by northwest winds. Roughly 30-70 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Most reports suggest the snow is bonding to the crusts so far, but there's potential for this layer to develop into a problem in the future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed into fresh wind slabs by northwest winds. Roughly 20-40 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Two deeper layers may be found in the snowpack, including the November 10 surface hoar and the Halloween crust (80 to 100 cm deep). The late November crust is the most likely of these layers to develop into a problem in the future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50 cm of accumulated storm snow has fallen on the crust that formed a week ago. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 10 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. Lots of uncertainty exists with the new snow sticking to the crust. Winds are likely redistributing the new snow above treeline and possibly forming wind slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 60-80 cm while a deeper snowpack exists in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack remains highly variable with very little information regarding snowpack structure within the region. Average snowpack depths at upper elevations range from 60-110 cm with scoured snow surfaces on southwesterly slopes and deeper pockets of wind slab on northeasterly slopes. Below the surface exists a series of crusts that were buried near the end of November approximately 40 cm and 70 cm down. Deeper in the snowpack a third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo and has been identified as a potential sliding interface where snowpack testing North of the region (Kananaskis Country) has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of snow from late last week now sits on top of a rain crust (or multiple crusts) that formed during the wet weather at the end of November. Strong (southerly) winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">For the most part, the riding in the region consists of 20-30cm of low density snow that is right-side up (the snow gets more dense as you go deeper into the snowpack). The main areas of concern are lee (down wind) north facing and cross-loaded features in the alpine and tree line elevation bands. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths are typically around 150 cm in sheltered tree line locations, although deeper (and shallower) spots certainly exist on account of the strong winds.</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">Approximately 30-50 cm of snow from last week sits on top of a rain crust that formed during the wet weather in late November. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Southerly winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Stubborn wind slabs have formed near ridge crests and lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Tree line snow depths are approximately 110 cm throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are roughly 100-150 cm at treeline elevations. This means that our recent accumulated storm snow (100-130 cm) forms the vast majority of our existing snowpack. Strong winds (mainly southwest) over the course of the storm developed deep deposits of wind slab on leeward slopes. The recent snow seems to be settling quickly and sits above a 5-10 cm thick crust that was buried a week ago. The crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. Recent snowpack test results are showing hard compression tests with sudden collapse results on this interface. The strength of these two deep weak layers will be an increasing concern as the snowpack is forced to adjust under continued loading and forecast rapid warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. Alpine snow surfaces are likely wind affected. Below the surface, approximately 30-50 cm of recent snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend well into the alpine. Recent snowpack tests have shown sudden results at these crust interfaces. Below these crusts, we have a well settled midpack overlying the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This late October &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed into fresh wind slabs by northwest winds. Roughly 30-60 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Reports suggest the snow is bonding to the crusts so far, but there's potential for this layer to develop into a problem in the future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold weather has preserved low density snow from last week's storms, with the exception of wind affected terrain at higher elevations. Recent snowfall amounts vary throughout the region, with roughly 20 cm in the north and up to 60 cm in the southeast of the region near Blue River. Below the recent storm snow you may find crusts that formed during rain events in late November. Little is known about depth, distribution, or reactivity of these crusts. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, 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">30 - 50cm of new snow has fallen in the past week. At higher elevations, south through west winds (gusting strong at times) redistributed the new snow, forming wind slabs on lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Below the recent storm snow you'll likely find a couple of widespread crusts (2 to 5 cm thick) which formed as a result of late November's rain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 100-170cm in the alpine, 50-100cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline 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 within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Pockets of wind slab ranging from 30 to 50cm thick are present in Alpine areas in lee and cross-loaded features. At the moment these slabs do not extend far down-slope, but this will change as winds increase. The November crust layers are buried between 50 and 70cm at Treeline and do not appear particularly active, but are certainly worth keeping an eye on. The basal layers of the snowpack are made up of a mix of crusts from October and facets. These layers continue to show moderate to hard results in snowpack stability tests. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Late last week through to Saturday we saw significant storm snow totals, on the order of 80-100cm in the North Shore mountains. That said, all the new snow appears to be bonding well to a crust (down 80-100cm at tree line elevations) and stabilizing rapidly. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Travel has improved below tree line, but there are still open creeks, alder and other early season hazards. Expect snow depths of around 60 cm at 800 m and around 200 cm at 1200 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is about to experience a big change with a week of warm sunny weather ahead. Intense warming is expected on steep south-facing slopes, while dry snow may persist on north-facing slopes. Snow from last week's storms has been redistributed into fresh wind slabs by northwest winds. Roughly 40-80 cm of recent snow sits above crusts from the warm weather in late November. Most reports suggest the snow is bonding to the crusts so far, but there's potential for this layer to become reactive with the intense warming. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow from last week's storms is settling and getting redistributed into fresh wind slabs by northwest winds. Roughly 20-40 cm of recent snow sits above various crusts from the warm weather in late November. Two deeper layers may be found in the snowpack, including the November 10 surface hoar and the Halloween crust (80 to 100 cm deep). The late November crust is the most likely of these layers to develop into a problem in the future. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent winds have been redistributing loose snow at higher elevations and forming wind slabs on leeward slopes and terrain features. Below the surface, 40-60 cm of accumulated storm snow now sits above the crust that formed a week ago. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 25 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. The bond of our recent storm snow to this crust is expected to be strengthening gradually and it has produced hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Below this interface, the snowpack is moist to ground. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 60-80 cm while a deeper snowpack exists in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from 60-110 cm. Snow surfaces have been scoured on southwesterly slopes and deeper pockets of wind slab likely exist on northeasterly slopes. Below the surface, the two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 40 cm and 70 cm down. Deeper in the snowpack a third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo and has been identified as a potential sliding interface. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 40-60 cm of snow from late last week now sits on top of a rain crust (or multiple crusts) that formed during the wet weather at the end of November. The snow appears to be bonding well to the crust with no avalanche activity reported recently on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up high, the main concern has been winds (first from the south, and more recently from the north) that have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. The take-home message is that wind slabs can be found on many aspects at higher elevations - including some southerly aspects, which is an unusual pattern. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Other than steep south facing slopes, much of the riding in the region consists of 20-30cm of low density snow that is right-side up (the snow gets more dense as you go deeper into the snowpack). </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">Approximately 30-50 cm of snow from last week sits on top of a rain crust that formed during the wet weather in late November. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Southerly winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Stubborn wind slabs have formed near ridge crests and lee features, primarily in the south of the region (Coquihalla area). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Tree line snow depths are approximately 110 cm throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are roughly 100-150 cm at treeline elevations. This means that our recent accumulated storm snow (100-130 cm) forms the vast majority of our current snowpack. Strong winds (mainly southwest) over the course of the storm developed deep deposits of wind slab on leeward slopes. The recent snow seems to be settling quickly and sits above a 5-10 cm thick crust that was buried just over a week ago. The crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. Recent snowpack test results have shown hard but sudden results on this interface. The strength of these two deep weak layers will be an increasing concern as the snowpack is forced to adjust to forecast rapid warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons.) Wind effect from recent strong southwest to northwest winds extended down into treeline elevations and resulted in fairly extensive wind slab formation. Below the wind-affected surface, approximately 30-50 cm of recent snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Recent snowpack tests have shown sudden results at these crust interfaces. Below these crusts, we have a well settled midpack overlying the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is about to experience a big change with a week of warm sunny weather ahead. Intense warming is expected on steep south-facing slopes, while dry snow may persist on north-facing slopes. Snow from last week's storms has been redistributed into fresh wind slabs by northwest winds. Roughly 40-80 cm of recent snow sits above crusts from the warm weather in late November. Most reports suggest the snow is bonding to the crusts so far, but there's potential for this layer to become reactive with the intense warming. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is about to experience a big change with a week of warm sunny weather ahead. Widespread melting is expected, with the most intense warming on steep south-facing slopes. Warming could potentially impact deeper layers including a combination of crusts that formed during rain events in November. Little is known about the depth, distribution, or reactivity of these crusts. Wind slabs formed at higher elevations over the past week and will likely continue to be reactive. Snow depths decrease rapidly below treeline, 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">30 - 50cm of new snow has fallen in the past week. At higher elevations, north west winds redistributed the snow, forming wind slabs on down wind (lee) features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">Below the recent storm snow you'll likely find a couple of widespread crusts (2 to 5 cm thick) which formed as a result of late November's rain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_A8FEC758">The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 100-170cm in the alpine, 50-100cm at tree line, and decreasing rapidly below tree line 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 within this region and it is critical to supplement this information with your own observations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent NW winds have started to create windslabs on lee features and extent down the slope. Some wind pressed snow was observed on the windward aspects. Evidence of moderate wind loading was observed on cross loaded features in the alpine. The November crust layers are buried between 50 and 70cm. The basal layers of the snowpack are made up of a mix of crusts from October along with facets. These layers continue to show moderate to hard results in snowpack stability tests. The upper snowpack will change and become denser when the warm weather rolls in creating a slab on top of the November raincrust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Late last week through to Saturday we saw significant storm snow totals, on the order of 80-100cm in the North Shore mountains. That said, all the new snow appears to be bonding well to a crust (down 80-100cm at tree line elevations) and stabilizing rapidly. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Travel has improved below tree line, but there are still open creeks, alder and other early season hazards. Expect snow depths of around 60 cm at 800 m and around 200 cm at 1200 m.</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">Intense warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Isolated wind slabs may be found behind ridges and ribs. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed during November's rainfall. On the whole these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span><span class="s_1681A555" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recently formed wind slabs are gaining strength, but can still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks. Intense warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent shifting winds have been redistributing loose snow at higher elevations, crossloading and forming wind slabs on a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. Below the surface, 40-60 cm of accumulated storm snow now sits above the crust that formed a week ago. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 30 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. The bond of our recent storm snow to this crust is expected to be strengthening and it has produced hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Below this interface, the snowpack is moist to ground. The average snowpack depth at treeline is 60-80 cm while a deeper snowpack exists in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from about 50-100 cm. Shifting winds over the past few days have extended wind slab formation to a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. Below the surface, the two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Dramatic warming will cause widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the mornings. The 40-60 cm of storm snow that fell last week is rapidly settling and bonding well to the late November rain crusts. Up high, shifting winds (first from the south, and more recently from the north) have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Dramatic warming will cause widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the mornings. The 30-50 cm of storm snow that fell last week is rapidly settling above the late November rain crust. The crust is reported to be thick (15 cm) below treeline and thin (2 cm) in the alpine. Southerly winds have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas. Stubborn wind slabs have formed near ridge crests and lee features, primarily in the south of the region (Coquihalla area). Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths in the region range from approximately 140 to 190 cm at treeline elevations. Recent strong winds (mainly southwest) have redistributed surface snow into deep deposits of wind slab on leeward slopes. A layer of large surface hoar that was recently observed in the Shames area is now buried about 15 cm below the surface. Information on the distribution and reactivity of this layer is limited. Below it, storm snow received over last week is gradually settling above a 5-10 cm thick crust (November 23) down roughly 70-100cm. Another layer of surface hoar (November 11) continues to be observed down approximately 140 cm in the Bear Pass area, showing some signs of improved bonding. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. Below it, the basal snowpack is a mix of weaker, sugary snow. Both the late October crust and basal snowpack remain ongoing concerns as they continue to produce hard but sudden snowpack test results. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons.) Wind effect from recent strong southwest to northwest winds penetrated down into treeline elevations and resulted in fairly extensive wind slab formation. Below the wind-affected surface, approximately 30-50 cm of recent snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although recent snowpack tests have shown hard results at these crust interfaces, observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled midpack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Isolated wind slabs may be found behind ridges and ribs. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed during November's rainfall. On the whole these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense warming is melting upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried weak layers which formed during November's rainfall. We have limited information about the nature of these buried crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dramatic warming will cause widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the mornings. 30 - 50 cm of new snow has fallen in the past week. At higher elevations, northwest winds redistributed the snow, forming wind slabs on downwind (lee) features. Below the recent storm snow you'll likely find a couple of widespread crusts (2 to 5 cm thick) which formed as a result of late November's rain. The depth of the snowpack varies greatly with elevation. Recent reports suggest the average depth is 100-170 cm in the alpine, 50-100 cm at treeline, and decreasing rapidly below treeline where the primary hazards are rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Overnight alpine winds have continued to reverse load south aspects and strip the northwest sides. Windslabs are now on most aspects and extending below ridgelines. They are also found near the bottoms of large alpine cliffs. Treeline has seen little change as temperatures and winds have remained steady. At both elevations, the crusts are the main concern. However, limited avalanche activity suggests the crusts are still intact and generally well bonded.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm weather is melting the snow surface all the way to the top of the highest mountains. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the morning. The 80-100 cm of storm snow that fell last week is rapidly settling and bonding to a buried crust. Travel has improved below treeline, but there are still open creeks, alder, and other early season hazards. Expect snow depths around 200 cm at 1200 m and 60 cm at 800 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Isolated wind slabs may be found behind ridges and ribs. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed during November's rainfall. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. There has been the odd isolated exception, and a cautious approach is a good idea while temperatures are skyrocketing. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> Intense warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers. Recently formed wind slabs are gaining strength, but may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the surface at higher elevations on Thursday. Below the surface, recent shifting winds redistributed loose snow at higher elevations, crossloading and forming wind slabs on a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. Below this wind effect, roughly 30-60 cm of storm snow now sits above the crust that was buried on November 26. The buried crust is supportive and approximately 30 cm thick. It extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. The bond of our recent storm snow to this crust is expected to be strengthening and it has produced hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Below this interface, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 80-120 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from about 50-100 cm. Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the surface at higher elevations on Thursday. Below the surface, shifting winds over the past few days extended wind slab formation to a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dramatic warming and clear skies have caused widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight but they will melt quickly in the mornings. Surface hoar is growing at and near treeline in shady locations and during the nights, but it may melt with the warm temperatures. The 40-60 cm of storm snow that fell last week is rapidly settling and generally bonding well to the late-November rain crusts. At high elevations, shifting winds (first from the south, and more recently from the north) have blown snow around in exposed areas creating drifts and scoured areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures are rapidly settling the snowpack. Expect widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the mornings. Lingering wind slabs may be found in the alpine, but are trending towards being unreactive. The snow has formed a strong bond to the late November rain crust which is now 30-50 cm deep. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths in the region range from approximately 140 to 190 cm at treeline elevations. Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the wind-affected surface at higher elevations on Thursday. A layer of large surface hoar that was recently observed in the Shames area is now buried about 15 cm below the surface. Information on the distribution and reactivity of this layer is limited. Below it, storm snow received over last week is gradually settling above a 5-10 cm thick crust (November 23) down roughly 70-100cm. Another layer of surface hoar (November 11) continues to be observed down approximately 140 cm in the Bear Pass area, showing some signs of improved bonding. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. Below it, the basal snowpack is a mix of weaker, sugary snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons.) Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the wind-affected surface at higher elevations on Thursday. Below the surface, Approximately 30-50 cm of storm snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled midpack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers and has produced recent sudden snowpack test results. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed in November and October. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. There has been the odd isolated exception, and a cautious approach is a good idea while temperatures are skyrocketing. Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense warming is melting upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried weak layers which formed during November's rainfall. We have limited information about the nature of these buried crusts, but tests in the south of the region suggest they are bonding reasonably well there.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_384D933F"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dramatic warming will cause widespread melting of the surface snow, especially on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the mornings. The warm weather has settled the snowpack and likely improved the bond to the 30-50 cm deep rain crust from late November. Some wind affected snow exists at higher elevations, and could potentially still be reactive above this crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind slabs are most noticeable near ridgeline and extending down the slope on most aspects due to the recent winds. Today was warm and sunny, thus making the snow moist on solar aspects and turning into a crust once the sun went away. The November crusts are still a concern, mostly in shallow areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm weather is melting the snow surface to the top of the highest mountains. Crusts may form overnight, but will melt quickly in the morning. The 80-100 cm of storm snow that fell last week is rapidly settling and bonding to a buried crust. Travel has improved below treeline, but there are still open creeks, alder, and other early-season hazards. Expect snow depths around 200 cm at 1200 m and 60 cm at 800 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming temperatures will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed during November's rainfall. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated wind slabs may still be found behind ridges and ribs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures up high will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recently formed wind slabs are gaining strength, but may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the surface at higher elevations over the past two days. Below the surface, recent shifting winds redistributed loose snow at higher elevations, crossloading and forming wind slabs on a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. Below this wind effect, roughly 30-60 cm of storm snow is expected to be bonding well to the underlying crust that was buried on November 26. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top elevations on all aspects. Below this capping crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 80-120 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from about 50-100 cm. Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the surface at higher elevations over the past two days. Below the surface, recent shifting winds extended wind slab formation to a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and clear skies have caused melting of the surface snow on south-facing slopes at higher elevations. Crusts may form overnight and may re-melt during the day. Surface hoar up to 10 mm and near-surface faceting have been noted at and near treeline in shady locations. The recent snow from last week is settling and generally bonding well to the late-November rain crusts. Lingering wind slabs on all aspects may be found in the alpine but are trending towards being unreactive.&nbsp; Cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperature and clear skies have caused melting of the surface snow on solar aspects, which have been freezing into a crust during the nights. In shady slopes, surface hoar to 20 mm and near-surface faceting have been observed around treeline and in the alpine. Lingering wind slabs on all aspects may be found in the alpine but are trending towards being unreactive. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures.&nbsp; </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent snow has formed a strong bond to the late November rain crust which is now 30-50 cm deep. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths in the region remain below seasonal, with recent heavy wind effect creating variable depths of around 110 to 190 cm at treeline elevations in the Shames area. Solar and temperature crusts now exist on the majority of the the surface and surface hoar was observed developing on sheltered aspects above the valley cloud in the Bear Pass area on Thursday. Another layer of large surface hoar that was recently observed in the Shames area is now buried about 15 cm below the surface. Information on the distribution and reactivity of this layer is limited. Below it, storm snow received last week is gradually settling above a 5-10 cm thick crust (November 23) down roughly 70-100cm. Another layer of surface hoar (November 11) continues to be observed down approximately 140 cm in the Bear Pass area, showing some signs of improved bonding. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. Below it, the basal snowpack is a mix of weaker, sugary snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons.) Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the wind-affected surface at higher elevations on Thursday. Below the surface, Approximately 30-50 cm of storm snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled midpack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. It also continues to produce sudden snowpack test results. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed in November and October. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming is melting upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried weak layers which formed during November's rainfall. We have limited information about the nature of these buried crusts, but tests in the south of the region suggest they are bonding reasonably well there.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and clear skies have caused melting of the surface snow on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight but should melt quickly in the mornings. The warm weather has settled the snowpack and may be improving the bond to the 30-50 cm deep rain crust from late November, but there are still limited observations of this layer. Lingering wind slabs may exist at higher elevations but are trending towards being unreactive. Cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind slabs are most noticeable near ridgeline and extending down the slope on most aspects due to the recent winds. Today was warm and sunny, thus making the snow moist on solar aspects and turning into a crust once the sun went away. The November crusts are still a concern, mostly in shallow areas.  Surface hoar is developing in lower elevations.  This will be yet another layer to pay attention to. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm weather is melting the snow surface to the top of the highest mountains, particularly on southerly aspects. Surface crusts may form overnight but will melt quickly in the morning. The upper snowpack is well-settled and bonding to a buried crust. Below treeline there are still open creeks, alder, and other early-season hazards. Expect snow depths around 200 cm at 1300 m and 60 cm at 800 m.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming temperatures will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, on isolated steep sunny slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed during November's rainfall. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated wind slabs may still be found behind ridges and ribs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures up high will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recently formed wind slabs are gaining strength, but may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on some surfaces over the past few days. In shaded higher elevation terrain where surface snow remained cold and unconsolidated, recent shifting winds redistributed loose snow forming stiff wind slabs on a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried on November 26. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 80-120 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on some surfaces over the past few days. In shaded higher elevation terrain where surface snow remained cold and unconsolidated, recent shifting winds redistributed loose snow forming stiff wind slabs on a wide range of aspects at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from about 50-100 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and clear skies have created surface crusts on south-facing slopes at higher elevations. Moderate wind speeds from the south may have produced new localized wind slabs on northerly lee features.  Wind slabs are expected to be found in areas without surface crusts, where loose snow was available to be transported by the wind.  Surface hoar up to 10 mm and near-surface faceting have been noted at and near treeline in shady locations.  The snow from last week is settling and generally bonding well to the late-November rain crusts.  Cornices may be weakening with the continuing warm air temperatures.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and clear skies have created surface crusts on south-facing slopes at higher elevations. Moderate wind speeds from the south may have produced new localized wind slabs on northerly lee features.  Wind slabs are expected to be found in areas without surface crusts, where loose snow was available to be transported by the wind.  In shady slopes, surface hoar to 20 mm and near-surface faceting have been observed around treeline and in the alpine.  Cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures.  The recent snow has formed a strong bond to the late November rain crust which is now 30-50 cm deep. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 5mm of rain fell in the Skeena corridor on Friday night. At higher elevations I suspect snow fell and was shifted by strong winds into wind slabs in lee terrain. In the Bear Pass area where temperatures were cooler, around 15cm of new snow fell down to near valley bottom. These accumulations overlie melt freeze crusts and possibly surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another layer of large surface hoar that was recently observed in the Shames area is now buried about 15 cm below the surface. Information on the distribution and reactivity of this layer is limited. Below it, storm snow received last week is gradually settling above a 5-10 cm thick crust (November 23) down roughly 70-100cm. Another layer of surface hoar (November 11) continues to be observed down approximately 140 cm in the Bear Pass area, showing some signs of improved bonding. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The base of the snowpack is reported to be a mix of facets and melt-freeze crusts.</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">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons.) Solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on the wind-affected surface at higher elevations on Thursday. Below the surface, Approximately 30-50 cm of storm snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. It also continues to produce sudden snowpack test results. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed in November and October. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming is melting upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried weak layers which formed during November's rainfall. We have limited information about the nature of these buried crusts, but tests in the south of the region suggest they are bonding reasonably well there.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong winds from the west and northwest at higher elevations may be forming new wind slabs in southerly and easterly lee features.  These wind slabs may sit above lingering wind slabs from the past week.  The warm air temperatures and clear skies from the past few days have caused melting of the surface snow on south-facing slopes. Crusts may form overnight but should melt quickly in the mornings if clear skies prevail.  Surface hoar to 30 mm has been observed along with near-surface faceting in the top 20 cm of the snowpack.  Beneath this, the warm weather has settled the snowpack and may be improving the bond to the 30-50 cm deep rain crust from late November, but there are still limited observations of this layer. On ridges, cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Significant surface hoar growth in low areas in the last 36-48 hours. It is found up to 2100m, and in some cases it is very large(20-30mm). Luckily the warmer temperatures above haven't allowed it to grow in the alpine or treeline areas. The warmth has also settled the treeline and alpine snow considerably. Non-polar aspects have settled snow, while steep solar aspects have moist snow and/or sun crusts in steeper areas by mid afternoon. The various crusts seem to be hanging in there with limited degradation in the last while. An alpine snow pit today had test results showing a good bond among the various layers. Wind prone areas still have a wind slab that may react to a skier's/rider's weight.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm weather has melted the snow surface to the top of the highest mountains, particularly on southerly aspects. Surface crusts may form overnight but will melt quickly in the morning. The upper snowpack is well-settled and bonding to a buried crust. Below treeline there are still open creeks, alder, and other early-season hazards. Expect snow depths around 200 cm at 1300 m and 60 cm at 800 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On steep sunny slopes the warming temperatures will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed during November's rainfall. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated wind slabs may still be found behind ridges and ribs, primarily on north through east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</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">On steep sunny slopes, warm temperatures up high will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers. Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recently formed wind slabs are gaining strength, but may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks primarily on north through south east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Stiff wind slabs exist on a wide range of aspects on alpine and exposed treeline slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, I suspect light amounts of low-density snow intermingle with surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried on November 26. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 80-120 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stiff wind slabs exist on a wide range of aspects in alpine and exposed treeline terrain. On sheltered treeline and below treeline slopes, I suspect light amounts of low-density snow intermingle with surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from about 50-100 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and clear skies have created surface crusts on south-facing slopes at higher elevations. The crusts may break down over the day with sunny conditions.  Moderate wind speeds from the south may have produced localized wind slabs on northerly lee features.  Surface hoar up to 10 mm and near-surface faceting have been noted in shady locations.  The snow from last week is settling and generally bonding well to the late-November rain crusts.  Cornices may be weakening with the continuing warm air temperatures.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm air temperatures and sunny skies have created surface crusts on southerly slopes, which may melt with warm air temperatures and under sunny skies.  North slopes were also affected in areas where cloudy skies prevailed on Sunday, due to the greenhouse effect.  It appears that this mostly occurred in the northern half of the region.  For the southern half of the region, northerly slopes likely remained cold.  Moderate wind speeds from the south may have produced localized wind slabs on northerly lee features. In shady slopes, surface hoar to 20 mm and near-surface faceting have been observed around treeline and in the alpine.&nbsp; Cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures. The recent snow has formed a strong bond to the late November rain crust, which is now 30-50 cm deep. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Friday and Saturday night about 10mm total precipitation fell in the Skeena corridor. Given the mild temperatures, I suspect most of that precipitation fell as rain. At alpine elevations snow likely fell and moderate to strong winds are expected to have formed wind slabs in lee terrain. In the Bear Pass area where temperatures were cooler, around 30cm of new snow fell. These accumulations overlie melt freeze crusts and possibly surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 70-100cm below the surface you'll likely find a 5-10 cm thick crust which was buried on November 23. Another layer of surface hoar (November 11) continues to be observed down approximately 140 cm in the Bear Pass area, showing some signs of improved bonding. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep. </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">With the recent temperature inversion, solar and temperature crusts are expected to have formed on sun-exposed slopes, while stiff, stubborn wind slabs linger in lee alpine terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 30-50 cm of storm snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. It also continues to produce sudden snowpack test results. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons.) </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On steep sunny slopes the warming temperatures will melt and weaken upper snowpack layers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried crust layers which formed in November and October. On the whole, these crusts have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated wind slabs may still be found behind ridges and ribs, primarily on north through east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</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">Daytime warming is melting and weakening upper snowpack layers, particularly on steep sunny slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming also has the potential to wake up more deeply buried weak layers which formed in October and November. The late November crust is down 60-75cm and snowpack tests in the south of the region suggest the snow is bonding reasonably well there.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate winds from the west and northwest may have formed wind slabs in southerly and easterly lee features. These may sit above lingering slabs from last week. The warm air temperatures and clear skies from the past few days have caused melting of the surface snow on south-facing slopes near treeline and above. Crusts may form overnight but should melt quickly in the mornings if clear skies prevail. Dry snow is generally found on shady slopes and below treeline, which may produce sluffing in steep terrain. Surface hoar to 30 mm has been observed along with near-surface faceting in the top 20 cm of the snowpack. Beneath this, the snowpack has settled and may be improving the bond to the 30-50 cm deep rain crust from late November. However, there are still limited observations of this crust layer. On ridges, cornices may be weakening with the warm air temperatures.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The story will be quite the same this week.  Surface hoar growth continues and can be found up to 2100m.  Steep solar aspects will have moist snow when the sun shines on it, especially on Monday with the high freezing level.  This moist snow will then turn into a crust once the sun disappears.  The upper snowpack continues to settle considerably with the warm temperatures.  There is no big concern at the moment for the November rain crusts.  Variable wind slabs can be found in the alpine and into treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm weather has melted the snow surface to the top of the highest mountains, particularly on southerly aspects. Surface crusts may form overnight but will melt quickly in the morning with sunny skies. The upper snowpack is well-settled and bonding to a buried crust. Below treeline there are still open creeks, alder, and other early-season hazards. Expect snow depths around 200 cm at 1300 m and 60 cm at 800 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming has only had effects on steep sunny slopes. With decreasing temperatures and some thin cloud, the sun's effects will be minimal. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Crusts from late November have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated wind slabs may still be found behind ridges and ribs, primarily on north through east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</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 slabs from last week are gaining strength and haven't shown signs of propagating (spreading across the slope) recently. That said, some wind slabs may still be found in the lee of ridges and terrain breaks, primarily on north through south east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Stiff wind slabs sit on a wide range of aspects on alpine and exposed treeline slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, I suspect light amounts of low-density snow intermingle with surface hoar and surface facets.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 80-120 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Stiff wind slabs sit on a wide range of aspects in the alpine and exposed treeline terrain. Windward slopes&nbsp; have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock and sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes from the sun and recent warm temperatures. Sheltered treeline and below treeline slopes may have a light dusting of low-density snow that intermingle with surface hoar and surface facets. This is what I call a mixed bag!!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack. Snowpack testing in the adjacent Kananaskis Country forecast region has yielded hard but sudden results on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at upper elevations in the region range from about 50-100 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have created a spring-like, melt-freeze cycle on all aspects with the overnight crust breaking down quickly due to the ongoing sunny warm weather. Surface hoar and surface facets may still exist in shaded areas on north aspects. The upper snowpack is well settled and bonding well to the late-November rain crusts although faceting has been noted around these crusts. The lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent alpine inversion and warm temperatures have created a variety of surfaces across the region depending on aspect. On southerly aspects, a spring-like surface crust has formed but will breakdown quickly with warm temperatures and high freezing levels expected to continue. On shaded north aspects, surface hoar and surface facets have formed, however at least in the Duffey Lake area, these were moistened and melted by cloudy skies and warm temperatures on Sunday. The upper snowpack is and well settled and appears to have bonded well to the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results on small facets associated with this layer. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The past couple of days brought up to 15 mm total precipitation in the Skeena corridor. Given the mild temperatures, I suspect most of that precipitation fell as rain. At alpine elevations snow likely fell and moderate to strong winds are expected to have formed wind slabs in lee terrain. In the Bear Pass area where temperatures were cooler, around 30cm of new snow fell. These accumulations overlie melt freeze crusts and possibly surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 70-100cm below the surface you'll likely find a 5-10 cm thick crust which was buried on November 23. Another layer of surface hoar (November 11) continues to be observed down approximately 140 cm in the Bear Pass area, showing some signs of improved bonding. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 90-160 cm deep.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow surfaces are highly variable throughout the region. Solar and temperature crusts have formed on sun-exposed slopes, while stiff, stubborn wind slabs linger in lee alpine terrain. Surface hoar and surface facets have formed below treeline up to 1500 m </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 30-50 cm of storm snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. It also continues to produce a variety of resistent to sudden snowpack test results.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. (Depths of up to 210 cm have been reported from the Howsons)</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Daytime warming has only had effects on steep sunny slopes. With decreasing temperatures and some thin cloud, the sun's effects will be minimal. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Crusts from late November have been showing reasonable bonding in snowpack and slope tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated wind slabs may still be found behind ridges and ribs, primarily on north through east aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</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">Daytime warming has only had effects on steep sunny slopes. With decreasing temperatures and some thin cloud, the sun's effects will be minimal. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late November crust is down 60-75cm and snowpack tests suggest the snow is bonding well.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack is shallow--look out for early season hazards like open creeks and tree stumps.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On southerly aspects, warm daytime temperatures have melted the snow surface resulting in crust formation overnight.  These crusts will likely breakdown quickly with sunny weather and warm temperatures expected to continue for the next few days. In shaded areas and on northerly aspects the surface consists of surface hoar up to 30 mm with faceted snow in the top 20 cm. The late-November crust is now buried 30-50 cm and is 15-25 cm thick.  Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of crust. Below this layer the lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Quite a bit of wind slab on all aspects in the alpine and trending to treeline. This wind slab can be quite hard and mostly breakable. Isolated sun crust on steep solar aspects. Surface hoar is growing and is found up to 2100m. The November rain crusts will be present for the season and are 30-50cm down from the surface but are not a big concern at the moment. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm weather has melted the snow surface to the top of the highest mountains. Surface crusts may form overnight but will melt quickly in the morning with continued warm temperatures and sunny skies. The upper snowpack is well-settled and bonding to a buried crust. Below treeline there are still open creeks, alder, and other early-season hazards. Expect snow depths around 200 cm at 1300 m and 30 cm at 800 m.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that dont receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-90cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that dont receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Stiff wind slabs sit on a wide range of aspects on alpine and exposed treeline slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, I suspect light amounts of low-density snow intermingle with surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 80-120 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Stiff wind slabs sit on a wide range of aspects in the alpine and exposed treeline terrain. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock and sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes from the sun and recent warm temperatures. Sheltered treeline and below treeline slopes may have a light dusting of low-density snow that intermingle with surface hoar and surface facets. This is what I call a mixed bag!!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack approximately 50-100 cm down and recent snowpack tests done on this layer are showing hard results. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have created a spring-like, melt-freeze cycle on all aspects with the overnight crust becoming moist in the afternoon on sun exposed slopes. On north aspects the surface crust is 1-2 cm thick with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Beneath the surface crust the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets above the late-November rain crust. Recent snowpack test have found hard, sudden compression test results on the facets just above the crust, which is now buried between 60-100 cm at treeline elevations. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent alpine inversion and warm temperatures have created a variety of surfaces across the region depending on aspect. On southerly aspects, a spring-like surface crust has formed but may become moist in the afternoon on steep, sun-exposed slopes. On shaded north aspects a thin surface crust has formed with dry snow below. The upper snowpack is and well settled and overlies the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results on small sugary, snow crystals (facets) associated with this layer. However these facets were noted to be showing signs of &quot;rounding&quot; or gaining strength. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recently, the region has received up to 20 mm of rain and some new snow at high alpine elevations. The alpine and treeline has seen significant wind effect on all aspects including wind slab and wind pressed snow. Snow surfaces are highly variable and consist of rain crusts, moist snow and new dry storm snow at elevations above 1700 m. Below the surface sits a well-settled snowpack overlying several layers of interest. Down 70-100 cm you'll likely find a 5-10 cm thick crust which was buried on November 23 and in some areas, a feathery surface hoar layer down 50-60 cm producing moderate snowpack test results. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 100-200 cm deep and exists region wide.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are highly variable throughout the region. Solar and temperature crusts have formed on sun-exposed slopes, while stiff, stubborn wind slabs linger in lee alpine terrain. Feathery surface hoar and surface facets have formed below treeline up to 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 30-50 cm of snow now overlies two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has been reactive to rider and remote triggers. It also continues to produce a variety of resistant to sudden snowpack test results.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that dont receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-90cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that dont receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-75cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surfaces varies widely depending on aspect and elevation. On south aspects a surface crust has formed but may become moist in the afternoon on steep, sun-exposed slopes. On more northerly aspects, widespread feathery, surface hoar crystals up to 30 mm in length have been observed below treeline as well as in sheltered areas at treeline. In the alpine the surface consists of sugary, faceted snow crystals and hard, wind scoured snow. Below the surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a series of late-November crusts which is now buried 20-50 cm and is 15-25 cm thick. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of this crust. Below this layer the lower snowpack is strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack will not really change until something happens with the weather.  Quite a bit of wind slab on all aspects in the alpine and trending to treeline. This wind slab can be quite hard and mostly breakable. Isolated sun crust on steep solar aspects. Surface hoar is growing and is found up to 2100m. The November rain crusts will be present for the season and are 30-50cm down from the surface but are not a big concern at the moment. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On sunny, solar aspects a surface crust has formed overnight but will soften with continued warm temperatures and sun exposure in the afternoon. On north aspects however, the snow surface consists of feathery, surface hoar and sugary, faceted snow crystals in shaded areas at upper elevations. Below the snow surface, the upper snowpack is well-settled an sits on the late-November rain crust. This crust is now buried approximately 120 cm at 1300m elevation, and is up to 30 cm thick. Beneath the crust, the lower snowpack is wet to ground. Below treeline the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 30 cm at 800 m elevation to 180 cm at 1220 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-90cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Isolated yet stubborn, small wind slabs may be found on varying aspects in the alpine from Tuesday’s wind event. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist, likely providing decent riding conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 70-110 cm.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Isolated yet stubborn, small wind slabs may be found on varying aspects in the alpine from Tuesday’s wind event. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock and sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist, likely providing decent riding conditions.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 30 cm and 60 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack approximately 50-100 cm down and recent snowpack tests done on this layer are showing hard results. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures have created a spring-like, melt-freeze crust on all aspects which will likely to become moist in the afternoon on steep, sun-exposed slopes. On north aspects this surface crust is 1-2 cm thick, with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Beneath the surface, the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets on the late-November rain crust. Recent snowpack test have found hard, sudden compression test results on the facets just above the crust, which is now buried between 60-100 cm at treeline elevations. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent alpine inversion and warm temperatures across the region have created a spring-like crust on most aspects. With another day of warm temperatures and high freezing level forecasted for Thursday, this crust will likely become moist in the afternoon particularly on steep, sun-exposed slopes. On shaded north aspects the surface crust is thinner with dry snow below. The upper snowpack is and well settled and overlies the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. Recent snowpack tests in the Duffey Lake area have produced hard, resistant compression test results on small sugary, snow crystals (facets) associated with this layer. However these facets were noted to be showing signs of &quot;rounding&quot; or gaining strength. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recently, the region has received up to 20 mm of rain and some new snow at high alpine elevations. The alpine and treeline has seen significant wind effect on all aspects including wind slab and wind pressed snow. Snow surfaces are highly variable and consist of rain crusts, moist snow and new dry storm snow at elevations above 1700 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the surface sits a well-settled snowpack overlying several layers of interest. Down 70-100 cm you'll likely find a 5-10 cm thick crust which was buried on November 23 and in some areas, a feathery surface hoar layer down 50-60 cm producing moderate snowpack test results. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 100-200 cm deep and exists region wide.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are highly variable throughout the region. Solar and temperature crusts have formed on sun-exposed slopes, while stiff, stubborn wind slabs linger in leeward alpine terrain. Feathery surface hoar and surface facets have formed below treeline up to 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 30-50 cm of snow sits on two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has not been reactive to rider and remote triggers since the end of November.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-90cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-75cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface varies widely depending on aspect and elevation. On south aspects a spring-like, melt-freeze crust has formed at all elevations but will likely breakdown by the afternoon particulary on steep, sun-exposed slopes. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (up to 30 mm in length in sheltered areas) have been observed below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the surface consists of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. Below the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a series of late-November crusts which is now buried 20-50 cm and is 15-25 cm thick. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of this crust. Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is mostly stable and will not not change much until  we see a major weather change. Quite a bit of wind slab on all aspects in the alpine and trending to treeline. This wind slab can be quite hard and mostly breakable. Isolated sun crust on steep solar aspects. Surface hoar is growing and is found up to 2100m. The November rain crusts will be present for the season and are 30-50cm down from the surface but are not a big concern at the moment. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A spring-like, melt-freeze crust has formed on most aspects but will likely soften by the afternoon with continued warm temperatures and high freezing levels forecasted for Thursday. In shaded areas on north aspects at upper elevations feathery, surface hoar and sugary, faceted snow may still exist. Below the snow surface, the upper snowpack is well-settled an sits on the late-November rain crust. This crust is now buried approximately 120 cm at 1300m elevation, and is up to 30 cm thick. Beneath the crust, the lower snowpack is wet to ground. Below treeline the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 30 cm at 800 m elevation to 180 cm at 1220 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-80cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Isolated and stubborn, wind slabs may be found on varying aspects in the alpine. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock and sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, very large feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist, likely providing decent riding conditions. These crystals do not pose hazard to us now, but once they get buried by new snow they can form a weak layer that may be reactive later. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 70-110 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Isolated and stubborn, small wind slabs may be found on varying aspects in the alpine. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock and sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, very large feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist, likely providing decent riding conditions. These crystals do not pose hazard to us now, but once they get buried by new snow they can form a weak layer that could become reactive later. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 15-20 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack approximately 50-100 cm down and recent snowpack tests done on this layer are showing hard to no significant results. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Check out this video from our </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/avcansouthrockies/videos/1813686355373518/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">South Rockies Field Team.</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A melt-freeze crust exists on the surface on all aspects. On north aspects this surface crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Beneath the surface, the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets on the late-November rain crust. The most recent snowpack tests from last week have found hard, sudden compression test results on the facets just above the crust, which is now buried between approximately  60 cm at treeline elevations. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent alpine inversion and warm temperatures across the region have created a spring-like crust on most aspects. The exception is shaded north aspects at upper elevations where the snow surface consists of dry, sugary snow (facets). Beneath the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. Recent snowpack tests in the Duffey Lake area have produced hard, resistant compression test results on small sugary, snow crystals (facets) associated with this layer. However these facets were noted to be showing signs of &quot;rounding&quot; or gaining strength. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Thursday the region received another 10-20 mm of rain at most elevations and some new snow at high alpine elevations. With freezing levels dropping the remainder of the precipitation may fall as snow during the forecast period and likely have a poor bond to the old snow surfaces. The alpine and treeline has seen significant wind effect on all aspects including wind slab and wind pressed snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the surface sits a well-settled snowpack overlying several layers of interest. Down 70-100 cm you'll likely find a 5-10 cm thick crust which was buried on November 23 and in some areas, a feathery surface hoar layer down 50-60 cm producing moderate snowpack test results. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 100-200 cm deep and exists region wide.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are highly variable throughout the region. Solar and temperature crusts have formed on sun-exposed slopes, while stiff, stubborn wind slabs linger in leeward alpine terrain. Feathery surface hoar and surface facets have formed below treeline up to 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 30-50 cm of snow sits on two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has not been reactive to rider and remote triggers since the end of November.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm 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">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 30-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small wind slabs may still be lingering in isolated locations on steep alpine faces but are likely stubborn to human trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals) continue to grow larger in shady, sheltered areas where the wind or sun have been unable to destroy this layer which will be the primary concern after the next snowfall builds a slab on top of it. Southerly aspects have surface crusts that may also have surface hoar crystals on slopes that do not receive enough sun to melt the crystals or moist snow on steeper slopes that receive more direct sun.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-75cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface varies widely depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust exists. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-30 mm in length) have been observed below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the surface consists of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. Below the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a series of late-November crusts which is now buried 20-50 cm and is 15-25 cm thick. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of this crust. Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is mostly stable and will not not change much until we see a major weather change. Quite a bit of wind affect on all aspects in the alpine and trending to treeline.  Isolated sun crust on steep solar aspects. Surface hoar is growing and is found up to 2100m. The November rain crusts will be present for the season and are 30-50cm down from the surface but are not a big concern at the moment. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A spring-like, melt-freeze crust has formed on all aspects although feathery, surface hoar and sugary, faceted snow may still exist in shaded areas on north aspects at upper elevations. Below the snow surface, the upper snowpack is well-settled an sits on the late-November rain crust. This crust is now buried approximately 120 cm at 1300m elevation, and is up to 30 cm thick. Beneath the crust, the lower snowpack is wet to ground. Below treeline the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 30 cm at 800 m elevation to 180 cm at 1220 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 5-10cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-80cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 2-5cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load to create problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new, low density snow now sits on a variety of old snow surfaces exist throughout the region. Isolated wind slabs may be found on easterly aspects in the alpine. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock and sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes. In sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, very large feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist, likely providing decent riding conditions. These crystals do not pose hazard to us now, but once they get buried by new snow they can form a weak layer that may be reactive later. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30-60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 70-110 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of wind slab may be found on easterly aspects in the alpine, while windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock. Sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes and in sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, very large feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist. These crystals do not pose hazard to us now, but once they get buried by new snow they can form a weak layer that could become reactive later. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 15-20 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack approximately 50-100 cm down and recent snowpack tests done on this layer are showing hard to no significant results. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Check out this video from our </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/avcansouthrockies/videos/1813686355373518/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">South Rockies Field Team.</span></a><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 the melt-freeze crust that formed at all aspects and elevations. On north aspects this surface crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Beneath the surface, the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets on the late-November rain crust. Recent snowpack tests from earlier this week have found hard, sudden compression test results on the facets just above the crust, which is now buried between approximately 60 cm at treeline elevations. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</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 the crust that formed on all aspects with the exception of shaded north aspects at upper elevations where the old snow surface consisted of dry, sugary snow (facets). Beneath the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. Snowpack tests in the Duffey Lake area early in the week produced hard, resistant compression test results on small sugary, snow crystals (facets) associated with this layer. However these facets were noted to be showing signs of &quot;rounding&quot; or gaining strength. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 mm of precipitation fell as a rain and saturated the snowpack up to 800 m on Thursday. On Friday, the freezing levels dropped and the new snow is currently building storm slabs on all aspects and elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the surface sits a well-settled snowpack overlying several layers of interest. Down 70-100 cm you'll likely find a 5-10 cm thick crust which was buried on November 23 and in some areas, a feathery surface hoar layer down 50-60 cm producing moderate snowpack test results. The widespread crust/facet interface that was buried at the end of October can now be found 100-200 cm deep and exists region wide.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow surfaces are highly variable throughout the region. Solar and temperature crusts have formed on sun-exposed slopes, while stiff, stubborn wind slabs linger in leeward alpine terrain. Feathery surface hoar and surface facets have formed below treeline up to 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 30-50 cm of snow sits on two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has not been reactive to rider and remote triggers since the end of November. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm 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">The 5-10cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 30-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 5-10cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-75cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 5 cm of new snow has fallen on a variety of old snow surfaces dependent on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-30 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. Below the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a series of late-November crusts which is now buried 20-50 cm and is 15-25 cm thick. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of this crust. Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist and well settled.</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">Beneath the new storm snow lies a widespread melt-freeze crust on all aspects and elevations. On north aspects the crust is likely quite hard while on southerly aspects and at lower elevations the crust may still be moist. Below the snow surface, the upper snowpack is well-settled an sits on the late-November rain crust. This crust is now buried approximately 120 cm at 1300m elevation, and is up to 30 cm thick. Beneath the November crust, the lower snowpack is wet to ground. Below treeline the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 30 cm at 800 m elevation to 180 cm at 1220 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 5-15cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load or slab properties to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab,(perhaps Sunday) you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-80cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 5-10cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load or slab properties to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 40-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of up to 10cm of new, low density snow now sit on a variety of old snow surfaces that exist throughout the region. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust and/or rock. Sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes. In sheltered terrain at and below treeline, very large feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist. These crystals do not pose a hazard to us now, but once they get buried by new snow they can form a weak layer that may be reactive later. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30 to 60cm below the surface you'll likely find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30cm thick and extends from 1600m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations in the region range from 70 to 110cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of wind slab may be found on easterly aspects in the alpine, while windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock. Sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes and in sheltered treeline and below treeline terrain, very large feathery surface hoar and surface facets (sugary snow) exist. These crystals do not pose hazard to us now, but once they get buried by new snow they can form a weak layer that could become reactive later. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 15-20 cm down. A third crust from the end of October exists as a &quot;facet/crust&quot; combo near the base of the snowpack approximately 50-100 cm down and recent snowpack tests done on this layer are showing hard to no significant results. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Check out this video from our </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/avcansouthrockies/videos/1813686355373518/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">South Rockies Field Team.</span></a><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 covers the melt-freeze crust that formed on all aspects and elevations. On north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the surface, the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets on the late-November rain crust. Snowpack tests found hard, sudden compression test results on the facets just above the crust, which is now down approximately 50 cm at tree line elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</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 10cm of new snow covers a crust that formed on almost all aspects: the exception being shaded north aspects at upper elevations, where the old snow surface consisted of dry, sugary snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower down, the snowpack is well settled and overlies the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. Snowpack tests in the Duffey Lake area produced hard, sudden test results associated with this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 15 to 40cm of storm snow Friday evening into Saturday morning, and new snow fall continues to fuel storm slab development as of Saturday afternoon. These new storm slabs rest on a rain saturated snowpack between valley bottom and 800m. Above 800m the new storm snow rests on settled old snow, or a variable melt freeze crust. In some areas a feathery surface hoar layer down 50 to 60cm was producing moderate snowpack test results. Down 70 to 100cm lies a 5 to 10cm thick crust which was buried on November 23rd. There is a second crust that is associated with facets that was buried at the end of October, look for this widespread interface down around 100 to 200cm below the surface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5cm of new snow fell Friday night into Saturday accompanied by moderate to strong southwest wind. This new snow rests on a wide variety of old surfaces including solar and temperature crusts on sun-exposed slopes and stiff, stubborn wind slabs in leeward alpine terrain. Feathery surface hoar and surface facets previously formed below treeline from valley bottom up to around 1500m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 30 to 50cm of snow sits on two crusts that were buried near the end of November. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Although snowpack tests have previously shown hard results at these crust interfaces, more recent observations have been limited. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust near the base of the snowpack. This &quot;crust/facet combo&quot; layer is widespread and has not been reactive to rider and remote triggers since the end of November. These rain crusts will likely be with us all winter but may not pose a problem until we see a significant change in the weather.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths now total 80-140 cm at treeline elevations and up to 160 cm 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">The 5-15cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load or slab properties to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 30-60cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 5-10cm of new snow on Friday fell on a wide variety of surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. There is not yet significant new snow load to create big problems, however, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the smorgasbord of surfaces out there. When we receive significant new snow and it settles into a cohesive slab, (perhaps Sunday) you can bet there will be avalanches. I would be most concerned about areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A major feature in the snowpack is a crust which was formed by rain in late November. It is down approximately 60-75cm at treeline elevations and snowpack tests suggest the snow is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below treeline, the snowpack depth decreases rapidly. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 5 cm of new snow has fallen on a variety of old snow surfaces, depending on aspect and elevation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-30 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a series of late-November crusts, now buried 20-50 cm and 15-25 cm thick. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of this crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Our snowpack is looking a little worse for wear these days. The winds, temperatures and lack of snow have left a variety of surface layers- none of which are conducive to good skiing. Valley bottom has decomposing surface hoar that is covered with a dusting of snow from the past 24-36 hours. Treeline is a widespread wind slab surface covering the crusts from late november. The alpine is also severely wind affected and on any windward aspect its blown to gravel or the old crusts. The good news is that most trouble layers have temporarily glued themselves together and aren't posing a huge avalanche risk.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust exists on all aspects and elevations. How well the incoming new snow bonds to this crust will be a critical determinant of avalanche danger on Sunday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, the upper snowpack is well-settled and bonding well to the late-November rain crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 30 cm at 800 m elevation to 180 cm at 1220 m. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 15-25cm of new snow accumulating Friday through Sunday evening now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </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 10-15cm of new snow accumulating Friday through Sunday evening now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 40-60cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region was hit hard by wind over the weekend, but there may be protected areas where up to 10cm of new low density snow survived. At or just below the surface there is a wide range of conditions. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust and/or rock. Sun and temperatures crusts have formed on south through west facing slopes. In sheltered terrain at and below treeline, large feathery surface hoar and sugary facets exist. Roughly 30 to 60cm below the surface you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30cm thick and extends from 1600m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline in the region range from 70 to 110cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of wind slab may be found on easterly aspects in the alpine, while windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock. Sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes.&nbsp; In sheltered terrain at and below treeline very large feathery surface hoar and sugary facets are on the surface.&nbsp; The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 15 to 20cm below the surface. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack.&nbsp; Recent testing on this crust did not produce significant results.&nbsp; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Check out this video from our </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/avcansouthrockies/videos/1813686355373518/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">South Rockies Field Team.</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow covers the melt-freeze crust that formed on all aspects and elevations in early December. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate winds from the south (west) have redistributed snow, creating isolated soft slabs on downwind slopes and behind ridges (north through east aspects). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the surface, the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets on the late-November rain crust, which is now down approximately 60 cm at tree line elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</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">10-20cm of new snow covers crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in early December. On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south of the region (Coquihalla), moderate southerly winds have redistributed the storm snow, creating wind slabs on northerly aspects behind ridge crests and rib features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower down, the snowpack is well settled and overlies the late November rain crust, now 20-50 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snow depths are approximately 1 m throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 60cm of storm snow over the weekend accompanied by winds out of the southwest, west, northwest, and even a bit of southeast. This has likely led to the development of a cohesive slab, especially in wind exposed features. These new storm and wind slabs rest on a rain saturated snowpack between valley bottom and 800m. Above 800m, the new storm snow rests on settled old snow, or a melt freeze crust that is 3 to 15cm thick. Below this crust the mid-pack is strong, but there are reports of a feathery surface hoar layer down 50 to 60cm in sheltered locations. There is a second prominent crust that is associated with facets that was buried at the end of October, look for this widespread interface down around 100 to 200cm below the surface. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The inland region picked up 5 to 15cm of new snow over the weekend accompanied by wind that was largely out of the west, but there were periods of southeast wind recorded too.  This new snow rests on a wide variety of old surfaces including small facets, crusts on solar aspects and stubborn old wind slabs near ridge crest.  In protected areas below 1500m the new snow may be sitting on previously formed feathery surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts formed near the end of November are found approximately 30 to 50cm below the surface.  These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine.  Previous snowpack tests produced hard results on these crusts, but we have not seen any recent information about their sensitivity to triggering.  Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust which is down near the ground.  The October crust is widespread and has not been reactive to human triggering since the end of November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are between 80 and 140cm at treeline, with up to 160cm 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">15-25cm of new snow accumulating Friday through Sunday evening sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 50-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of new snow accumulating Friday through Sunday evening sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">UPDATE: MONDAY DECEMBER 17th @ 9am:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some areas saw 20-30 cm of new snow in Sunday night's storm, with moderate to strong winds. Snow drifts as deep as 60cm have been reported. This new snow has fallen on a variety of old snow surfaces, depending on aspect and elevation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a series of late-November crusts, now buried 20-50 cm and 15-25 cm thick. Recent snowpack tests have produced hard, resistant compression test results within the layers of this crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another windy day on Sunday, but this has led to little change in the snowpack. The winds, temperatures and lack of snow have left a variety of surface layers- none of which are conducive to good skiing. Valley bottom has decomposing surface hoar that is covered with a dusting of snow from the past 48 hours. Treeline is a widespread wind slab surface covering the crusts from late november. The alpine is also severely wind affected and on any windward aspect its blown to gravel or the old crusts. In general, there is not much out there for avalanche problems at the moment.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-25cm of snow from the weekend now sits on a widespread melt-freeze crust, which exists on all aspects and elevations. How well the incoming new snow bonds to this crust will be a critical determinant of avalanche danger on Monday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the snow surface, the upper snowpack is well-settled and bonding well to the late-November rain crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 40 cm at 800 m elevation to 200 cm at 1220 m. </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 20-40 cm of new snow accumulating through the weekend now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-25cm of new snow accumulating through the weekend now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 40-60cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Monday morning dawned with up to 50 cm of fresh snow; triple what was forecast to fall overnight! Temperatures started cold and finished warmer so the storm snow is &quot;upside down&quot;.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Prior to Sunday's storm, at or just below the surface there is a wide range of conditions. Windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust and/or rock. Sun and temperatures crusts have formed on south through west facing slopes. In sheltered terrain at and below treeline, large feathery surface hoar and sugary facets exist. Roughly 30 to 60cm below the surface you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30cm thick and extends from 1600m to mountain top on all aspects. Below this crust, the snowpack is moist to ground. Average snowpack depths at treeline in the region range from 70 to 110cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of new snow fell by Monday mornining. Isolated pockets of wind slab may be found on easterly aspects in the alpine, while windward slopes have been scoured down to the old rain crust or rock. Sun crusts have formed on southerly slopes.  In sheltered terrain at and below treeline very large feathery surface hoar and sugary facets are on the surface.  The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can now be found approximately 15 to 20cm below the surface. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack.  Recent testing on this crust did not produce significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of new snow covers the melt-freeze crust that formed on all aspects and elevations in early December. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate winds from the south (west) have redistributed snow, creating isolated soft slabs on downwind slopes and behind ridges (north through east aspects). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the surface, the upper snowpack is well settled and overlies a thin layer of facets on the late-November rain crust, which is now down approximately 60 cm at tree line elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The south of the region saw significantly more snow (30-40cm) from Sunday night's storm compared to the north of the region, which received 10-15cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in early December. On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong winds have redistributed the snow, creating wind slabs on down wind (lee) features near ridge crests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower down, the snowpack is well settled and has not been showing any signs of activity on the late November rain crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snow depths are approximately 1.2 m throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 60cm of storm snow over the weekend accompanied by winds out of the southwest, west, northwest, and even a bit of southeast. This has likely led to the development of a cohesive slab, especially in wind exposed features. These new storm and wind slabs rest on a rain saturated snowpack between valley bottom and 800m. Above 800m, the new storm snow rests on settled old snow, or a melt freeze crust that is 3 to 15cm thick. Below this crust the mid-pack is strong, but there are reports of a feathery surface hoar layer on or right around this crust in sheltered locations. There is a second prominent crust that is associated with facets buried at the end of October, look for this widespread interface down around 100 to 200cm below the surface. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The inland region picked up 5 to 15cm of new snow over the weekend accompanied by wind that was largely out of the west, but there were periods of southeast wind recorded too. This new snow rests on a wide variety of old surfaces including small facets, crusts on solar aspects and stubborn old wind slabs near ridge crest. In protected areas below 1500m the new snow may be sitting on previously formed feathery surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts formed near the end of November are found approximately 30 to 50cm below the surface. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Previous snowpack tests produced hard results on these crusts, but we have not seen any recent information about their sensitivity to triggering. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust which is down near the ground. The October crust is widespread and has not been reactive to human triggering since the end of November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are between 80 and 140cm at treeline, with up to 160cm 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">15-30cm of new snow accumulating Friday through Sunday evening sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 50-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40cm of new snow accumulating through the weekend sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have surface hoar sitting on top of a hard crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Nelson area and points farther south saw 20-30 cm of new snow in Sunday night's storm, with moderate to strong winds. Snow drifts as deep as 60cm have been reported and we also received word that the upper snow pack is 'upside down' (heavier, denser snow on top of lighter snow).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All this new snow has fallen on a variety of old snow surfaces, depending on aspect and elevation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist 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_AA239A9B">Early Monday morning, we received 25cm of new snow in the valley bottom and 35cm in the alpine.  Some of this snow has started to turn into a slab in the alpine due to wind.  All of this new snow is sitting on a variety of surfaces.  Remember those hard wind slabs we have been talking about; it is a pretty smooth surface for the new snow to slide on, so be cautious under larger or steeper slopes.  Some of this new snow might also be sitting on a sun crust that was formed a week or so ago on steep solar aspects.  Also remember the surface hoar that was formed over this 3 week dry spell; it can be found up to 2100m and can be a sliding surface if the slope is steep and planar.  Lots going on at all elevations, so be cautious on your approach especially with more snow on the way. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Temperatures got quite warm at the tail end of Sunday's storm, with up to 30mm rain falling on 15-20cm snow. Clearing overnight into Monday morning resulted in a widespread melt-freeze surface crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rained-on snow from the weekend is bonding well to the previous melt-freeze crust from early December's warm weather.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 40 cm at 800 m elevation to 200 cm at 1220 m. </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 40-70 cm of new snow accumulating through the past 5 days now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-40cm of new snow accumulating over the past 5 days now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have had previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and/or sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 40-60cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">50-60 cm new snow now rests on a variety of old surfaces. These old surfaces include crusts on south through west facing slopes, wind-scoured slopes and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, large feathery surface hoar crystals. Lower in the snowpack, you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30cm thick and extends from 1600m to mountain top on all aspects. Average snowpack depths at treeline in the region range from 90 to 130cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of recent snow has fallen in conjunction with variable winds. This new snow has fallen on a variety of surfaces including old crusts, wind-scoured surfaces and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, very large feathery surface hoar crystals. The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on this crust did not produce significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of low-density snow fell on Tuesday, accompanied by moderate to strong north west winds. Soft slabs 20-40cm thick were reactive to human traffic.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is now 30-50cm of snow sitting on a melt-freeze crust that formed on all aspects and elevations in early December. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is well settled and consists of several crusts that formed in the early season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The south of the region has seen impressive storm snow totals (50-70cm) since Sunday night, compared to the north of the region, which received 15-25cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in early December. On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong (north) westerly winds have redistributed the new snow, creating deep drifts on down wind (lee) features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower down, the snowpack is well settled and has not been showing any signs of activity on the late November rain crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snow depths are approximately 1.4 m throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 60cm of storm snow over the weekend accompanied by winds out of the southwest, west, northwest, and most recently the east. This will have set up storm slabs in more sheltered areas and wind slabs on a wide variety of aspects in more exposed areas. These new storm and wind slabs may rest on a melt freeze crust (reported to be 3 to 15cm thick), and there are reports there also may be surface hoar resting above this crust in sheltered locations. Below this crust the mid-pack is reported to be generally strong. You can expect to find a second prominent crust, which was buried at the end of October, 100 to 200cm below the surface. This lower layer may have associated facets, particularly in more shallow locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The inland region picked up 5 to 15cm of new snow over the weekend accompanied by wind that was initially out of the west, but has since switched to being out of the southeast. This new snow rests on a wide variety of old surfaces including small facets, crusts on solar aspects and stubborn old wind slabs near ridge crest. In protected areas below 1500m the new snow may be sitting on previously formed feathery surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts formed near the end of November are found approximately 30 to 50cm below the surface. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Previous snowpack tests produced hard results on these crusts, but we have not seen any recent information about their sensitivity to triggering. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust which is down near the ground. The October crust is widespread and has not been reactive to human triggering since the end of November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are between 80 and 140cm at treeline, with up to 160cm 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">30-50cm of new snow accumulating over the past 5 days sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 50-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40cm of new snow accumulating through last weekend sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Nelson area and points farther south have now seen 40-60 cm of new snow since Sunday night, with moderate to strong winds. Deep snow drifts have been reported and we also received word that the upper snow pack is 'upside down' (heavier, denser snow on top of lighter snow).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All this new snow has fallen on a variety of old snow surfaces, depending on aspect and elevation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is moist 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_AA239A9B">Another 5cm overnight brings our recent storm totals to 20-25cm at treeline. In wind prone areas at treeline, we're seeing a small, yet dense wind slab form. So far this is a minor concern, however it will become more significant with the increasing winds. The crusts are all present,  and in various states of decay. In some places they are still intact, and in others they have broken down. The alpine elevations saw moderate winds from all directions today. New windslabs will be present on most aspects as the winds shift to the east. 120cm of snow at treeline &amp; the Nov 27th crust was down 40cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Temperatures got quite warm at the tail end of Sunday's storm, with up to 30mm rain falling on 15-20cm snow. Clearing overnight into Monday morning resulted in a widespread melt-freeze surface crust up to the highest treeline elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since then, we've had 20cm snow by Tuesday afternoon. Some key questions to consider are &quot;How well is the new snow bonding to the old surface?&quot; and &quot;Are there areas with deep wind-loaded pockets?&quot;</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below tree line the snow pack is thin and there are many early season hazards. Snowpack depths range from 40 cm at 800 m elevation to 200 cm at 1220 m. </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 40-70cm of new snow accumulating since last Friday now sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </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">20-50cm of new snow accumulating over the past week sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have had previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and/or sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 40-60cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 50cm new snow now rests on a variety of old surfaces. These old surfaces include crusts on south through west facing slopes, wind-scoured slopes and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, large feathery surface hoar crystals. Lower in the snowpack, you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30cm thick and extends from 1600m to mountain top on all aspects. Average snowpack depths at treeline in the region range from 100 to 140cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern and eastern parts of this region, up to 70 cm of snow has fallen in recent storms, combined with variable winds. In the Elk Valley, the amount of new snow is more like 30 cm. The new snow has fallen on a variety of surfaces including old crusts, wind-scoured surfaces and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, very large feathery surface hoar crystals. The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on this crust did not produce significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is now 30-50cm of snow sitting on a melt-freeze crust that formed on all aspects and elevations in mid-December (December 15th layer). On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below.&nbsp; Below the upper December 15th crust, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm with a thin layer of sugary snow (facets) above.&nbsp; Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The southern part of the region has seen impressive storm snow totals (80-100cm) since Sunday night, compared to the north of the region, which received 25-35cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in mid-December (December 15th layer). On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. Beneath the December 15th layer the snowpack is well settled and has not been showing any signs of activity on the late November rain crust which is now buried 40-50 cm in the northern part of the region and closer to 1 m in the south. Treeline snow depths are approximately 1.4 m throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 20 to 60cm of storm snow last weekend accompanied by winds out of the southwest, west, northwest, and most recently the east. Since then, little additional snow has fallen, but cooler temperatures have kept snow dry and susceptible to being blown around by the wind. Wind slabs may rest on a melt freeze crust (reported to be 3 to 15cm thick), and there are reports there also may be surface hoar resting above this crust in sheltered locations. Below this crust the mid-pack is reported to be generally strong. You can expect to find a second prominent crust, which was buried at the end of October, 100 to 200cm below the surface. This lower layer may have associated facets, particularly in more shallow locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The inland region picked up 5 to 15cm of new snow over the weekend accompanied by wind that was initially out of the west, but has since switched to being out of the southeast. This new snow rests on a wide variety of old surfaces including small facets, crusts on solar aspects and stubborn old wind slabs near ridge crest. In protected areas below 1500m the new snow may be sitting on previously formed feathery surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts formed near the end of November are found approximately 30 to 50cm below the surface. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Previous snowpack tests produced hard results on these crusts, but we have not seen any recent information about their sensitivity to triggering. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust which is down near the ground. The October crust is widespread and has not been reactive to human triggering since the end of November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are between 80 and 140cm at treeline, with up to 160cm 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">30-50cm of new snow accumulating over the last week sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40cm of new snow accumulating through last weekend sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-80cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Tuesday's storm delivered another 20-30 cm of snow to the region, accompanied by moderate to strong, easterly winds. Bringing the storm total to 40-60 cm for the Nelson area and parts further south. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">All this new snow has fallen on a variety of old snow surfaces (December 15th layer), depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. The December 15th layer now buried 30-50 cm has produced easy to moderate, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Below the crust layer the lower snowpack is 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_AA239A9B">8cm of new snow overnight brings our storm snow to about 25-30cm at treeline and up to 40cm in the alpine. The winds have been transporting snow in the alpine all day, so expect wind slab development around ridges and lee features.  It is possible that this wind effected snow extends to tree line as yesterday had winds from all directions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since Monday, the region has received 20-30 cm of storm snow on top of the most recent December 18th melt-freeze crust which formed following Sunday's rain event to upper elevations. Below this crusts lies 20 cm of wet snow which appears to be well bonded to the lower December 16th crust. Below this second crust the snowpack is well settled to ground. Snowpack depths are about 125 cm at 1100 m elevation, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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 40-80cm of new snow accumulating over last week sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 90-120cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </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">30-50cm of new snow accumulating over the past week sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have had previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and/or sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 50cm recent new snow now rests on a variety of old surfaces. These old surfaces include crusts on south through west facing slopes, wind-scoured slopes and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, large feathery surface hoar crystals. Lower in the snowpack, you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30cm thick and extends from 1600m to mountain top on all aspects. Average snowpack depths at treeline in the region range from 100 to 140cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern and eastern parts of this region, up to a 80 cm of snow has fallen in recent storms, combined with variable winds. In the Elk Valley, the amount of new snow is more like 30 cm. The new snow has fallen on a variety of surfaces including old crusts, wind-scoured surfaces and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, very large feathery surface hoar crystals. The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on this crust did not produce significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong northerly winds building wind slabs on lee aspects and scouring windward aspects in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. This has created a highly variable upper snowpack depending on aspect and elevation with areas of both soft and hard snow as well as areas of exposed crust. An average of 30-50cm of storm snow now sits on a melt-freeze crust (December 15th layer) that formed on all aspects and elevations. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Below the upper December 15th crust, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm with a thin layer of facets above. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northerly winds in the alpine and exposed treeline areas, creating wind slabs in some areas and scouring others (particularly in the northern part of the region).The southern part of the region has seen impressive storm snow totals (80-100cm) since Sunday night, compared to northern areas of the region, which received 25-35cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in mid-December (December 15th layer). On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. Beneath the December 15th layer the snowpack is well settled and has not been showing any signs of activity on the late November rain crust which is now buried 50-80 cm in the northern part of the region and well over 1 m in the south. </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 region picked up 20 to 60cm of storm snow last weekend accompanied by winds out of the southwest, west, northwest, and most recently the east. Since then, little additional snow has fallen, but cooler temperatures have kept snow dry and susceptible to being blown around by the wind. Wind slabs may rest on a melt freeze crust (reported to be 3 to 15cm thick), and there are reports there also may be surface hoar resting above this crust in sheltered locations. Below this crust the mid-pack is reported to be generally strong. You can expect to find a second prominent crust, which was buried at the end of October, 100 to 200cm below the surface. This lower layer may have associated facets, particularly in more shallow locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Relatively light recent snow amounts have been accompanied by westerly and northwesterly winds. 20-ish cm below the surface, a highly variable weak layer exists. It comprises of facets in cold areas, crusts on solar aspects, and in protected areas below 1500m, feathery surface hoar. In most places, insufficient snow has fallen above this layer for it to be reactive, but it should be considered in deep snow areas, or where the wind has blown additional snow over the top of it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts, which formed near the end of November, are found approximately 30 to 50cm below the surface. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Previous snowpack tests produced hard results on these crusts, but we have not seen any recent information about their sensitivity to triggering. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust which is down near the ground. The October crust is widespread and has not been reactive to human triggering since the end of November. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths in the region are between 80 and 140cm at treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-50cm of new snow accumulating over the last week sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be very likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 80-110cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40cm of new snow accumulating through last weekend sits on a wide variety of old surfaces including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. As the snow load builds and slab properties develop, it will be important to monitor how the new snow is bonding to the old surfaces. Most concerning would be areas that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where the surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals since Sunday average between 30-60 cm across the region, with the highest amounts in the Nelson area. This new snow has fallen on the &quot;Decemebr 15th crust/surface hoar&quot; layer, a variety of old snow surfaces depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. Recent snowpack tests have produced very easy to hard, sudden results on the December 15th crust/surface hoar layer, indicating a high degree of variability in this layer. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is 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_AA239A9B">The recent storm snow continues to settle.  Some windslabs were observed in Alpine areas up to 25cm thick but these were not that widespread at this time.  The Dec 15th interface is down 30-40cm but a lack of a cohesive slab is preventing widespread activity on this layer.  The key thing to be aware of is the windslabs that are developing and the potential for triggering as you move into more wind affected areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northerly winds have redistributed the recent storm snow scouring windward, northwesterly slopes and loading leeward southerly slopes in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. Approximately 20-30 cm of storm snow sits on top of the most recent December 18th melt-freeze crust which formed following Sunday's rain event to upper treeline elevations. Below this crusts lies 20 cm of wet snow which appears to be well bonded to the lower December 16th crust. Below this second crust the snowpack is well settled to ground. Snowpack depths are about 125 cm at 1100 m elevation, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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">Stormy weather over the past week has brought 50-80cm of new snow to the region. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface becomes critical as the overlying snow gradually consolidates into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be more likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 90-120cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </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">Stormy weather over the past week has brought 30-50cm of new snow top the region. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface becomes critical as the overlying snow gradually consolidates into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 50 to 80 cm recent new snow now rests on a variety of old surfaces. These old surfaces include crusts on south through west facing slopes, wind-scoured slopes and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, large feathery surface hoar crystals. Lower in the snowpack, you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m to mountain top on all aspects. Average snowpack depths at treeline in the region range from 100 to 140 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern and eastern parts of this region, up to 100 cm of snow has fallen in recent storms, combined with variable winds. In the Elk Valley, the amount of new snow is more like 40 cm. The new snow has fallen on a variety of surfaces including old crusts, wind-scoured surfaces and, in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, very large feathery surface hoar crystals. The two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on this crust have not produced significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong northerly winds building wind slabs on lee aspects and scouring windward aspects in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. This has created a highly variable upper snowpack depending on aspect and elevation with areas of both soft and hard snow as well as areas of exposed crust. An average of 30-50cm of storm snow now sits on a melt-freeze crust (December 15th layer) that formed on all aspects and elevations. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm with a thin layer of facets above. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northerly winds in the alpine and exposed treeline areas, creating wind slabs in some areas and scouring others (particularly in the northern part of the region).The southern part of the region has seen impressive storm snow totals (80-100cm) since Sunday night, compared to northern areas of the region, which received 25-35cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in mid-December (December 15th layer). On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. Beneath the December 15th layer the snowpack is well settled. The late November rain crust is now buried 50-80 cm in the northern part of the region and well over 1 m in the south. </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 region picked up 20 to 60 cm of storm snow last weekend accompanied by winds out of the southwest, west, northwest, and most recently the east. Since then, little additional snow has fallen, but cooler temperatures have kept snow dry and susceptible to being blown around by the wind. Wind slabs may rest on a melt-freeze crust (reported to be 3 to 15 cm thick), and there are reports of surface hoar resting above this crust in sheltered locations. Below this crust the mid-pack is reported to be generally strong. You can expect to find a second prominent crust, which was buried at the end of October, 100 to 200 cm below the surface. This lower layer may have associated facets, particularly in shallow locations around Stewart and the northern parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface has been dramatically affected by winds that initially came from the west but have shifted to the east. The winds have scoured and redistributed the recent snow in exposed terrain. 20-ish cm below the surface, a highly variable weak layer exists. It comprises of facets in cold areas, crusts on solar aspects, and in protected areas below 1500 m, feathery surface hoar. In most places, insufficient snow has fallen above this layer for it to be reactive, but it should be considered in deep snow areas, or where the wind has blown additional snow over the top of it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts, which formed near the end of November, are found 30 to 50 cm below the surface. These crusts are widespread and extend into the alpine. Previous snowpack tests produced hard results on these crusts, but we have not seen any recent information about their sensitivity to triggering. Below these crusts, a well settled mid-pack overlies the late October crust which is down near the ground. The October crust is widespread and has not been reactive to human triggering since the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stormy weather over the past week has brought 40-60cm of new snow to the region. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface becomes critical as the overlying snow gradually consolidates into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be more likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 80-110cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stormy weather over the past week has brought 20-40cm of new snow to the region. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface becomes critical as the overlying snow gradually consolidates into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be more likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals since Sunday average between 40-80 cm across the region, with the highest amounts in the Nelson area. This new snow has fallen on the &quot;Decemebr 15th crust/surface hoar layer&quot;, a variety of old snow surfaces depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. Recent snowpack tests have produced very easy to hard, sudden and resistant results on the December 15th crust/surface hoar layer, indicating a high degree of variability and uncertainty in this layer. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-15cm new snow with the deeper areas being in the eastern region (Hwy 40).  Windslabs being found in Alpine terrain along ridgelines and in cross loaded areas but they do not extend far downslop. At treeline a surface hoar layer is being found widespread up to 2200m down 30cm but a lack of a cohesive slab over this layer is preventing it being a problem...yet.  Facets are building over the november crusts but we are still generally only getting hard to no results on this layer.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northerly winds have redistributed the recent storm snow scouring windward, northwesterly slopes and loading leeward southerly slopes in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. A thin sun crust can also be found on solar aspects. Approximately 20-30 cm of storm snow sits on top of the most recent December 18th melt-freeze crust. Below this crusts lies 20 cm of well settled snow above the December 16th crust. Below this second crust the snowpack is well settled to ground. Snowpack depths are about 135 cm at 1100 m elevation, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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">Stormy weather over the past week has brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Additionally, any steep solar aspects where surface hoar may be sitting on sun crust should be considered areas where this weak layer may be more likely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 90-120cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 30-50cm of new snow top the region. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is critical where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November remains a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth decreases rapidly below tree line. Look out for early season hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open creeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures are preserving 50 to 80 cm of fresh snow from the past week. The snow has been deposited into stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes crusts on south through west facing slopes and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is highly variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed a stiff slab above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Lower in the snowpack, you should be able to find a hard crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust is approximately 30 cm thick and extends from 1600 m up to the mountain tops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures are preserving fresh snow from the past week, with up to 80 cm in southern and eastern parts of the region and 50 cm in the Elk Valley. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes old crusts, wind scoured surfaces, and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is highly variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed a stiff slab above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on these crusts have not produced significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong northerly winds scouring windward, north to west aspects and building wind slabs on leeward, south to east aspects in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. This has created a highly variable upper snowpack with areas of both soft and hard snow as well as areas of exposed crust, depending on aspect and elevation. An average of 30-50cm of storm snow now sits on a melt-freeze crust (December 15th layer) that formed on all aspects and elevations. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm with a thin layer of facets above. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northerly winds in the alpine and exposed treeline areas, creating wind slabs in some areas and scouring others (particularly in the northern part of the region).The southern part of the region has seen impressive storm snow totals (80-100cm) since Sunday night, compared to northern areas of the region, which received 25-35cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in mid-December (December 15th layer). On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. Beneath the December 15th layer the snowpack is well settled. The late November rain crust is now buried 50-80 cm in the northern part of the region and well over 1 m in the south. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Great conditions reports from the north of the region on the Mountain Information Network (MIN) </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-conditions-reports/1606" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">, as well as from the southern part of the region, </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-conditions-reports/1563" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><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">Strong outflow winds have dramatically affected the surface snow, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Sheltered areas may still have 20 to 50 cm of powder from previous storms, but winds have come from a variety of directions and affected much of the terrain. Wind slabs may rest on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust (reported to be 3 to 15 cm thick) and in some sheltered locations soft feathery surface hoar crystals above the crust. The mid-pack is reported to be generally strong below this crust, with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late October crust can be found deep in the snowpack. This deep crust has been been associated with weak sugary snow and may still be a concern in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by recent winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind affect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in the western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10 to 30 cm of powder from previous storms. Roughly 20 cm below the surface, a highly variable weak layer exists. It comprises of facets in cold areas, crusts on solar aspects, and in protected areas below 1500 m, feathery surface hoar. In most places, insufficient snow has fallen above this layer for it to be reactive, but it should be considered in deep snow areas, or where the wind has blown additional snow over the top of it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 40-60cm of new snow to the region. Cold temperatures since the storm have generally slowed consolidation of the new snow, with the exception of wind-affected areas. The new snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line and sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 80-110cm at treeline elevations. Although an isolated incident, one avalanche report from Friday suggests this layer can be coaxed into reacting in steep, variable snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 20-40cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds (most recently from the north) have redistributed the new snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation in wind-sheltered areas. The new snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas will be those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Snowpack tests suggest the snow above is currently bonding well to it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals over the past week average between 50-90 cm across the region. This new snow has fallen on the &quot;December 15th crust/surface hoar layer&quot;, a variety of old snow surfaces depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. Recent snowpack tests have produced very easy to hard, sudden and resistant results on the December 15th crust/surface hoar layer, indicating a high degree of variability and uncertainty in this layer. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures and clear skies are leading to surface facetting. Wind slabs are found in the Alpine on all aspects and in open areas at Treeline immediately below ridge-crests in lee and cross-loaded terrain. The Dec 15th surface hoar layer is found down 20 to 30cm at elevations below 2200m, but the lack of an overlying slab means that this layer of concern is not yet active. The November crusts are beginning to facet and are producing generally hard results in stability tests.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northerly winds have redistributed the recent storm snow scouring windward, northwesterly slopes and loading leeward southerly slopes in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. A thin sun crust can also be found on steep solar aspects. Approximately 20-30 cm of storm snow sits on top of the most recent December 18th melt-freeze crust, which has been unreactive in recent snowpack tests. Below this crusts lies 20 cm of well settled snow above the December 16th crust. Below this second crust, a third, 20 cm thick, late November crust is now buried 40-50 cm. The lower snowpack well settled and moist to ground. Snowpack depths are about 135 cm at 1100 m elevation, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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">Stormy weather early last week brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Shifting winds over recent days have redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have worked to inhibit slab formation in wind-sheltered areas. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent </span><span class="s_3FE45715">snow</span><span class="s_3FE45715"> lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, particularly in sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 90-120cm at tree line elevations. Recent snowpack tests as well as an isolated avalanche report from the North Monashees suggests it may be coaxed into reacting in steep, variably loaded terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 30-50cm of new snow to the region. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Shifting winds over recent days have redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have worked to inhibit slab formation in wind-sheltered areas. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, particularly in sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November remains a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface shows good signs of bonding in the Purcells, but has indicated some reactivity in steep, variably loaded features in adjacent regions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures are preserving 50 to 70 cm of fresh snow from the past week. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed a stiff slab above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar. The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures are preserving fresh snow from the past week, with up to 80 cm in southern and eastern parts of the region and 50 cm in the Elk Valley. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. The main question in the snowpack surrounds the layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes old crusts, wind scoured surfaces, and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed a stiff slab above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar. Two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on these crusts have not produced significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by strong northerly winds scouring windward, north to west aspects and building wind slabs on leeward, south to east aspects in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. This has created a highly variable upper snowpack with areas of both soft snow and hard wind slab, as well as areas of exposed crust depending on aspect and elevation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">An average of 20-40cm of settled storm snow now sits on a melt-freeze crust (December 15th layer) that formed on all aspects and elevations. On high north aspects this crust is thin with dry, sugary snow crystals (facets) below. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm with a thin layer of facets above. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northerly winds in the alpine and exposed treeline areas, creating wind slabs in some areas and scouring others. The southern part of the region has seen impressive storm snow totals (80-100cm) since Sunday night, compared to northern areas of the region, which received 25-35cm. This new snow sits on crusts of variable thickness that formed on almost all aspects in mid-December (December 15th layer). On steep southerly aspects the crust is supportive, whereas on northerly aspects the crust is quite thin and variable. Beneath the December 15th layer the snowpack is well settled. The late November rain crust is now buried 50-80 cm in the northern part of the region and well over 1 m in the south. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Great conditions reports from the north of the region are posted on the Mountain Information Network (MIN) </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-conditions-reports/1606" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">, as well as from the southern part of the region, </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map?panel=mountain-conditions-reports/1563" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><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">Strong outflow winds dramatically affected the surface snow, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Sheltered areas may still have 20-40 cm of powder from previous storms, but winds have come from a variety of directions and affected much of the terrain. Wind slabs rest on a variety of old surfaces, including a thick melt-freeze crust and in some sheltered locations soft feathery surface hoar crystals above the crust. The snowpack is reported to be generally strong below this crust, with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late October crust can be found deep in the snowpack. This deep crust has been been associated with weak sugary snow and could possible be triggered in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in the western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. Roughly 20 cm below the surface, a variable weak layer exists comprising of facets, crusts on solar aspects, and in protected areas below 1500 m, feathery surface hoar. In most places, insufficient snow has fallen above this layer for it to be reactive, but it should be considered in deep snow areas or where the wind has blown additional snow over the top of it. The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 40-60cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have worked to inhibit slab formation in wind-sheltered areas. The storm snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, particularly in sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span><span class="s_E6FD2046" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 80-110cm at treeline elevations. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack tests as well as an isolated avalanche report from the North Monashees suggests it may be coaxed into reacting in steep, variably loaded terrain features.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 20-40cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds (most recently from the north) have redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation in wind-sheltered areas. The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas are those that have seen previous surface hoar development, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Recent observations show this crust gradually breaking down, making it a less well-defined failure plane for avalanching.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals over the past week average between 50-90 cm across the region. This new snow has now settled to 30-80 cm and overlies the &quot;December 15th crust/surface hoar layer&quot;, a variety of old snow surfaces depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals (10-60 mm in length) have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. In the alpine the old surface consisted of sugary snow (facets) and hard, wind scoured snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack tests have produced very easy to hard, sudden and resistant results on the December 15th crust/surface hoar layer indicating a high degree of variability and uncertainty in this layer. Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 70-100 cm and has been producing hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much changing in the snowpack at the moment, except more profound faceting due to the persistent cold temperatures. Wind slabs are found in the Alpine on all aspects and in open areas at Treeline immediately below ridge-crests in lee and cross-loaded terrain. The Dec 15th surface hoar layer is found down 20 to 30cm at elevations below 2200m, but the lack of an overlying slab means that this layer of concern is not yet active. The November crusts are beginning to facet and as they continue to become weaker, this layer will become problematic.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northerly winds have redistributed the recent storm snow scouring windward, northwesterly slopes and loading leeward southerly slopes in the alpine and exposed treeline areas. A thin sun crust can also be found on steep solar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 15-30 cm of settled storm snow sits on top of the most recent December 18th melt-freeze crust, which has been unreactive in recent snowpack tests. Below this crusts lies 20 cm of well settled snow above the December 16th crust. Below this crust, a third crust, the 20 cm thick late-November crust, is now buried 40-50 cm. The lower snowpack well settled and moist to ground. Snowpack depths are about 135 cm at 1100 m elevation, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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 week's storm brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region. Recent shifting winds (primarily from the north) have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. The storm snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack, found approximately 90-120cm deep at tree line elevations. Recent snowpack tests as well as an avalanche report from the North Monashees suggest it may be coaxed into reacting in steep, variably loaded terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 30-50cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds (most recently from the northwest) have redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. The storm snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, particularly in sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November remains a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface shows good signs of bonding in the Purcells, but has indicated some reactivity in steep, variably loaded features in adjacent regions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures are preserving 50 to 70 cm of fresh snow from the past week. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed a stiff slab above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar. The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures are preserving fresh snow from the past week, with up to 80 cm in southern and eastern parts of the region and 50 cm in the Elk Valley. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. The main question in the snowpack surrounds the layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes old crusts, wind scoured surfaces, and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has blown extra snow above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on these crusts has not produced significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong outflow winds dramatically affected the surface snow, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Sheltered areas may still have 20-40 cm of powder from previous storms, but winds have come from a variety of directions and affected much of the terrain. Wind slabs rest on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust. In some sheltered locations, soft feathery surface hoar crystals may sit above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is reported to be generally strong below this crust, with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late October crust can be found deep in the snowpack. This deep crust has been been associated with weak sugary snow and could possible be triggered in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in the western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface, but in most places insufficient snow has fallen for it to be reactive. The layer comprises of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 40-60cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds (most recently from the northwest) have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. The storm snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, particularly in sheltered openings at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 80-110cm at treeline elevations. Recent snowpack tests as well as an avalanche report from the North Monashees suggest it may be coaxed into reacting in steep, variably loaded terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's stormy weather brought 20-40cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds (most recently from the northwest) have redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation in wind-sheltered areas. The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development in advance of the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. Recent observations show this crust gradually breaking down, making it a less well-defined failure plane for avalanching.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm snow has now settled to 30-80 cm of soft slab overlying the &quot;December 15th crust/surface hoar layer&quot; - a variety of old snow surfaces depending on aspect and elevation. On solar aspects a thin melt-freeze crust has been buried. On northerly aspects, feathery, surface hoar crystals have been buried below treeline as well as protected areas at treeline. And in the alpine, the old surface of of sugary snow (facets) and hard wind-scoured snow lies below the storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowpack tests have produced very easy to hard, sudden and resistant results on this December 15th crust/surface hoar layer indicating a high degree of variability in this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the December 15th layer, the late November crust is now buried 60-100 cm and has been producing hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of new snow now covers the variable old surface consisting of; wind-scoured northwesterly slopes, areas of hard and soft wind slab on alpine lee slopes and exposed treeline areas, as well as a thin sun crust on steep solar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 2-5 cm of new snow overlies 15-30 cm of old storm snow on top of the most recent December 18th melt-freeze crust, which has been unreactive in recent snowpack tests. Below this crusts lies 20 cm of well settled snow above the December 16th crust. Below this crust, a third crust, the 20 cm thick late-November crust, is now buried 40-50 cm. The lower snowpack well settled and moist to ground. Snowpack depths are about 135 cm at 1100 m elevation, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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 week's storm brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly north winds have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a range of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. Cold has also worked to decrease cohesion and reactivity in older wind slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack, found approximately 90-120cm deep at tree line elevations. Recent evidence from adjacent regions suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 30-50cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly northwest winds have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs in lee terrain at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. Cold has also worked to decrease the cohesion and reactivity of older wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November remains a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface shows good signs of bonding in the Purcells, but has indicated some reactivity in steep, variably loaded alpine features in adjacent regions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures are preserving roughly 50 cm of low density snow from last week's storms. The snow is being deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered areas at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed stiff slabs above the layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures are preserving fresh snow from the past week, with up to 60 cm in southern and eastern parts of the region and 30 cm in the Elk Valley. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. The main question in the snowpack surrounds the layer sitting beneath the new snow. The layer includes crusts on solar aspects and large feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has blown extra snow above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two crusts that were buried near the end of November can be found lower in the snowpack. A third crust from the end of October exists near the base of the snowpack. Recent testing on these crusts has not produced significant results.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40cm below the surface you'll likely find a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. Recent snowpack tests have ranged from no results, to moderate to hard resistant results on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th layer lies at least 10 cm of sugary facets and the late November crust, which is now buried 70-100 cm with a thin layer of facets above. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable amounts of settled and facetted storm snow (up to 100cm around the Coquihalla and closer to 40cm in the Duffey area) overlie a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. Recent snowpack tests have ranged from no results, to moderate to hard resistant results on this layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th layer the snowpack is 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">Strong outflow winds dramatically affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Sheltered areas may still have 20-40 cm of powder from previous storms, but winds have come from a variety of directions and affected much of the terrain. Wind slabs rest on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust. In some sheltered locations, soft feathery surface hoar crystals may sit above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is reported to be generally strong below this crust, with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late October crust can be found deep in the snowpack. This deep crust has been been associated with weak sugary snow and could possible be triggered in shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in the western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface, but in most places insufficient snow has fallen for it to be reactive. The layer comprises of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar crystals in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 40-60cm of new snow to the region. Shifting winds (predominantly from the north) have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. Cold has also worked to decrease the cohesion and reactivity of older wind slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow lies over a wide variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), hard crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered openings at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 80-110cm at treeline elevations. Recent evidence suggests it may be coaxed into reacting in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 20-40cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly northwest winds since the storm redistributed loose snow at the surface into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures inhibited slab formation elsewhere. The cold has also worked to break down the cohesion and reactivity of older wind slabs. The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of the greatest importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development in advance of the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface has shown some signs of reactivity limited to steep, variably loaded alpine features in adjacent regions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm snow has now settled into a 30-80 cm soft slab. This slab overlies the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar everywhere else which seems most pronounced in sheltered treeline terrain and below. The bond at this variable interface is of critical importance, especially in areas where the overlying slab is deep and well-consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late November crust is now buried 60-100 cm and has been producing hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much changing in the snowpack at the moment, except more profound faceting due to the persistent cold temperatures. Wind slabs are found in the Alpine on all aspects and in open areas at Treeline immediately below ridge-crests in lee and cross-loaded terrain. The Dec 15th surface hoar layer is found down 20 to 30cm at elevations below 2200m, but the lack of an overlying slab means that this layer of concern is not yet active. The November crusts are beginning to facet and as they continue to become weaker, this layer will become problematic.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A light dusting of snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 15-30 cm below the surface you'll likely find the December 18th melt-freeze crust, which has been unreactive in recent snowpack tests. That said, I'd keep an eye on this crust as new snow accumulates overtop. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be strong and well settled. Snowpack depths are about 135 cm at the 1100 m elevation with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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 week's storm brought 50-80 cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly northerly winds have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs at higher elevations. In sheltered areas cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation. The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), sun crust, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline or sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 90-120cm deep. Recent evidence from adjacent regions suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 30-50cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly northwest winds have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs in lee terrain at higher elevations while cold temperatures have inhibited slab formation elsewhere. Cold has also worked to decrease the cohesion and reactivity of older wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), sun crust and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November remains a major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 60-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface shows good signs of bonding in the Purcells, but has indicated some reactivity in steep, variably loaded alpine features in adjacent regions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures are preserving roughly 50 cm of low density snow from last week's storms. The snow is being deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer buried 50 cm below the surface. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has formed stiff slabs above the layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures are preserving fresh snow from the past week, with up to 60 cm in southern and eastern parts of the region and 30 cm in the Elk Valley. The snow has been deposited into harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but remains low density in sheltered areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the layer sitting beneath the recent snow. The layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The distribution of the layer, as well as the properties of the snow above it, is variable. The most suspect areas are where the wind has blown extra snow above this layer and on slopes with preserved surface hoar.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Thursday morning, up to 15cm of new snow is expected to have fallen. Strong southwest winds are forecast to shift these accumulations into much deeper deposits in high elevation lee terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40cm below the surface you'll likely find a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer hasn't produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th layer, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Thursday morning, up to 15cm of new snow is expected to have fallen. Strong southwest winds are forecast to shift these accumulations into much deeper deposits in high elevation lee terrain. The new snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and loose faceted snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable amounts of snow (up to 100cm around the Coquihalla and closer to 40cm in the Duffey area) overlie a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. As of late, this layer hasn't produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but it could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th 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">Strong outflow winds dramatically affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Sheltered areas may still have 30 cm of powder from previous storms, but winds have come from a variety of directions and affected much of the terrain. Wind slabs rest on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust. In some sheltered locations, soft feathery surface hoar crystals may sit above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is reported to be generally strong below this crust, with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October crust can be found deep in the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around the crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface, but in most places insufficient snow has fallen for it to be reactive. The layer comprises of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 40-60cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly northerly winds have since redistributed this storm snow into wind slabs at higher elevations. In sheltered ares cold temperatures have largely prevented this snow from consolidating into a slab. The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), sun crust, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered open areas at and below treeline or sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity at this interface but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-110cm deep. Recent evidence suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 20-40cm of new snow to the region. Predominantly northwest winds since the storm redistributed loose snow at the surface into wind slabs on a variety of aspects at higher elevations while cold temperatures inhibited slab formation elsewhere. The cold has also worked to break down the cohesion and reactivity of older wind slabs. The storm snow lies over a variety of old surfaces, including large surface hoar (weak, feather-like crystals), crusts formed by sun or wind, and sugary facets. The bond at this old snow interface is of the greatest importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development in advance of the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below tree line.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface has shown some signs of reactivity limited to steep, variably loaded alpine features in adjacent regions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Thursday morning, up to 15cm of low density snow is expected to have fallen. Moderate west winds are forecast to shift these accumulations into deeper deposits in high elevation lee terrain. The new snow overlies recently buried surface hoar, although at this point not much is known about the size or distribution of this potential weak layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 75cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered treeline terrain and below. The bond at this variable interface is of critical importance, especially in areas where the overlying slab is deep and well-consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late November crust is now buried 60-100 cm and has been producing hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack continues to facet with the persistently cold temperatures. Wind slabs are found in Alpine areas on all aspects, and in isolated spots at Treeline. Below 2200m a buried layer of surface hoar (down 20 to 30cm) remains a layer of note, but due to the current lack of an overlying slab this layer has not been active. Deeper in the snowpack the November and october crust layers are being monitored, but are not currently active.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">By Thursday morning, up to 20cm of new snow is expected to have fallen. Strong southwest winds are forecast to shift these accumulations into much deeper deposits in high elevation lee terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 30 cm below the surface you'll likely find a couple of melt-freeze crusts which were buried in mid-December. These layers haven't produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is thought to be strong and well settled. Snowpack depths are about 135 cm at the 1100 m elevation with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 60-100cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 100-140cm deep. Recent evidence from the North Columbia region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Low density new snow is beginning to accumulate and bury a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is down approximately 30-50cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline and any area where the surface hoar may have formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 60-100cm deep. Recent reports show this layer to be unreactive at this time. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wednesday night and through the day on Thursday approximately 30 cm of low density snow fell with generally light winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This overlies roughly 50 cm of old storm snow from last week that formed harder wind slabs in exposed terrain near ridge top, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer now buried 80 cm below the surface. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow fell overnight Wednesday and during the day on Thursday and overlies up to 60 cm of old storm snow in southern and eastern parts of the region and 30 cm in the Elk Valley. Wind has formed harder wind slabs in exposed terrain, but low density storm snow remains in sheltered areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has produced whumpfing as well as moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/63f1a6b2-9795-4cdf-a45a-06f7a8e4a5e1" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please post your own reports!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of Thursday afternoon the region has picked up 10 to 30 cm of new snow accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the south/southwest. Snowfall is expected to continue through Thursday night. The new snow covers a medley of old surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th layer, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of Thursday afternoon the storm has produced about 25 cm in the north of the region and around 40 cm in the south. Winds have largely been out of the southwest throughout the storm. The new storm snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and loose faceted snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable amounts of snow (up to 100 cm around the Coquihalla and closer to 40 cm in the Duffey area) overlie a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. As of late, this layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but it could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th 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">Strong outflow winds have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Sheltered areas may still have 30 cm of powder from previous storms, but winds have come from a variety of directions and affected much of the terrain. Wind slabs rest on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. In some sheltered locations, soft feathery surface hoar crystals may sit above this crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is reported to be generally strong below this crust, with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October crust can be found deep in the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around the crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own reports!</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">10-15cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 40-60cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-110cm deep. Recent reports from the southwest end of this region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 5cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 20-40cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface has shown some signs of reactivity limited to steep, variably loaded alpine features in the adjacent North Columbia region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of Thursday afternoon the storm has produced 10 to 20 cm of low density snow which has been accompanied by light to moderate wind out of south, southwest and even a bit of of southeast. The new snow overlies recently buried surface hoar, although at this point not much is known about the size or distribution of this potential weak layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 30 and 85 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered treeline terrain and below. The bond at this variable interface is of critical importance, especially in areas where the overlying slab is deep and well-consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late November crust is now buried 60-100 cm and has been producing hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sorry to sound like a broken record but... the snowpack continues to facet with the persistently cold temperatures. Wind slabs are found in Alpine areas on all aspects, and in isolated spots at Treeline. Below 2200m a buried layer of surface hoar (down 20 to 30cm) remains a layer of note, but due to the current lack of an overlying slab this layer has not been active. Deeper in the snowpack the November and october crust layers are being monitored, but are not currently active.  The facetting is weakening the upper snowpack and we are starting to see more loose dry avalanches occurring.  Ice climbers within gullied terrain should be particularly aware of this concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 to 50 cm of storm snow has fallen as of Thursday afternoon. The new snow is reportedly upside down, meaning that wet heavy snow sits over light fluffy (lower density) snow. The storm snow covers a medley of old surfaces which include stubborn old wind slabs and wind scoured crusts in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 80 cm below the surface you'll likely find a couple of melt-freeze crusts which were buried mid-December. These layers may come to life as continued snowfall adds to the load. This would be most likely to occur in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is thought to be strong and well settled. The snowpack depth is about 150 cm at 1000 m, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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">25-50cm of low density new snow from the past 2 days has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 60-100cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 100-140cm deep. Recent evidence from the North Columbia region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm low density new snow has accumulated and buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. Another layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is down approximately 30-50cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline and any area where the surface hoar may have formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 60-100cm deep. Recent reports show this layer to be unreactive at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Thursday night 10-15 cm of storm snow fell on top of 25 cm of very low density storm snow and has been modified by winds creating an &quot;upside-down&quot; storm slab layer with stiffer snow on top of softer snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This upside-down storm snow layer overlies roughly 50 cm of old storm snow from last week that formed into stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain near ridge top, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-December layer is now buried 80 cm below the surface. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of snow fell overnight with generally light winds however but some areas of the region (Crowsnest Pass) saw strong winds while others (Elk valley) saw lower snowfall amounts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In wind exposed areas this new snow overlies variable wind slabs up to 80 cm thick in some areas.  In sheltered areas, 30-60 cm of unconsolidated old storm snow has been covered.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has produced whumpfing as well as moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/63f1a6b2-9795-4cdf-a45a-06f7a8e4a5e1" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please post your own reports!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm delivered 15 to 35 cm of new snow accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the south/southwest. The new snow covers a medley of old surfaces which include stubborn old wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 to 60 cm below the surface you'll likely find a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th layer, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm produced about 25 cm of storm snow in the north of the region and around 40 cm in the south. Winds have largely been out of the southwest throughout the storm. The new storm snow covers a medley of surfaces which include stubborn wind slabs and wind-scoured exposed crust in the alpine, and loose faceted snow as well as isolated surface hoar in sheltered areas at treeline and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable amounts of snow (up to 100 cm around the Coquihalla and about 20 to 50 cm in the Duffey area) overlie a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. As of late, this layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but it could come to life with the additional load of new snowfall, especially in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the December 15th 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">The Arctic high remains in place and strong outflow winds have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. Winds have come from a variety of directions over the past several days and have built wind slabs in much of the alpine and exposed treeline terrain. These wind slabs rest on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. In some sheltered locations, soft feathery surface hoar crystals may exist on top of this crust. In non-wind affected terrain, 30-40 cm of unconsolidated snow overlies the mid-December crust layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around this basal crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own observations to the MIN!</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">20-30cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 40-60cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-110cm deep. Recent reports from the southwest end of this region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 20-40cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface has shown some signs of reactivity limited to steep, variably loaded alpine features in the adjacent North Columbia region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm produced 10 to 25 cm of low density snow which was accompanied by light to moderate wind out of south, southwest and even a bit of of southeast. The new snow overlies recently buried surface hoar, although at this point not much is known about the size or distribution of this potential weak layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 25 and 80 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The bond at this variable interface is of critical importance, especially in areas where the overlying slab is deep and well-consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late November crust is now buried 60 to 100 cm below the surface and has been producing hard, resistant results in recent snowpack tests. Beneath this crust the lower snowpack is strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">21cm storm snow overnight at Burstall with 30cm overnight at Aster lake. Storm snow tapers to 15cm at lower elevations. This new snow fell with light winds out of the north and as a result we are seeing some reverse loading in a few areas in the Alpine. Watch for new windslabs and storm slabs 20-30cm deep in alpine areas and at treeline in steeper terrain. These slabs will be slow to settle out with the cooler temps. Down 40-50cm in the snowpack is the December 15th surface hoar layer being found up to 2250m. A lack of a cohesive slab overlying this layer has prevented it being a problem but we can expect it to develop over the next few days as the snow settles. Pay attention where this layer is and isnt as you travel. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursday's storm produced 30 to 55 cm of storm snow. The new snow is reportedly upside down, meaning that wet heavy snow sits over light fluffy (lower density) snow. The storm snow covers a medley of old surfaces which include stubborn old wind slabs and wind scoured crusts in the alpine, and soft unconsolidated snow in sheltered areas at treeline and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30 to 90 cm below the surface you'll likely find a couple of melt-freeze crusts which were buried mid-December. These layers may come to life as continued snowfall adds to the load. This would be most likely to occur in areas where loose facets exist above the crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the snowpack is thought to be strong and well settled. The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, with many early season hazards present at lower elevations. </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">35-65cm of low density new snow from the past 3 days has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 60-100cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 100-140cm deep. Recent evidence from the North Columbia region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm low density new snow has accumulated and buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. Another layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is down approximately 40-70cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline and any area where the surface hoar may have formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 70-110cm deep. Recent reports show this layer to be unreactive at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Since Thursday, 20-35 cm of storm snow fell on top of 25 cm of previous very low density storm snow. Winds (at times strong from the south west) have modified the snow pack, creating an &quot;upside-down&quot; storm slab layer with stiffer snow on top of softer snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This upside-down storm snow layer overlies roughly 50 cm of old storm snow from last week that formed into stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain near ridge top, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-December layer is now buried 60-80 cm below the surface. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow has fallen over the past 2 days, with generally light winds. That said, some areas of the region (Crowsnest Pass) saw strong east winds while others (Elk valley) had lower snowfall amounts. In wind exposed areas this new snow overlies variable wind slabs up to 80 cm thick in some areas. In sheltered areas, 30-60 cm of unconsolidated old storm snow has been covered.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has produced whumpfing as well as moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/63f1a6b2-9795-4cdf-a45a-06f7a8e4a5e1" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please post your own reports!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 50 to 70 cm of storm snow with wind out the southwest, south and southeast that was strong at times. All of this new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline. As temperatures begin to warm late Sunday the storm snow will likely settle into a more cohesive slab. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but could come to life as the overlying slab becomes more cohesive as temperatures warm. Beneath the December 15th layer, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday night's storm produced about 30 cm in the north of the region and almost 40 cm in the south. That brings the total from the two successive storms to approximately 50 to 80 cm. The bulk of the wind during the storms was out of the southwest, south and southeast but there were periods of northeast and easterly winds too. All of this new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline. Wind slabs are common in wind exposed terrain, but it's thought the snow is largely unconsolidated in protected areas. As temperatures begin to warm the storm snow will likely settle into a more cohesive slab. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust buried mid-December exits throughout the region. This crust is down around 30 to 60 cm in the Duffey. Around the Coquihalla it's about 100 cm below the surface. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but it could come to life as the overlying slab gains cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally 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">Cold temperatures and strong winds (from the south east, and more recently from the west) have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In non-wind affected terrain, 30-40 cm of unconsolidated (aka faceted or 'sugary') snow overlies the mid-December crust layer. This snow has been sluffing in steep terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around this basal crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own observations to the MIN!</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">30-50cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 50-70cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-120cm deep. A report from last week in the southwest end of this region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-25cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 30-50cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface has shown some signs of reactivity limited to steep, variably loaded alpine features in the adjacent North Columbia region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 25 to 50 cm of low density storm snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the east, southeast, south and southwest. The new snow overlies 3 to 5 mm surface hoar, but we don't know much about the distribution of this weak layer yet.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The bond at this variable interface is of critical importance, especially in areas where the overlying slab is deep and well-consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is thought to be strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_C144F7B2"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another 10 to 15cm of new snow overnight brings the storm snow total to 40 to 50cm. This snow is mostly still low density in nature except in the high Alpine and in wind prone areas. Expect to find slabs on all aspects in the Alpine that have either been recently formed, or formed earlier in the storm and are now buried. At Treeline and below the Dec 15th surface hoar layer is buried between 40 and 60cm deep and is failing in loose dry avalanches, but not yet as a slab due the lack of an overlying cohesive layer. With increased winds this could change. Recent snowpits are showing that the November crusts are faceting, but these layers have not been active as an avalanche problem. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 40 to 80 cm of snow over the last few days. Friday night's storm started as rain before turning to snow overnight. The brief period of rain followed by snow and cooling temperatures is thought to have helped the snowpack to settle and stabilize.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface you'll likely find a couple of melt-freeze crusts which were buried mid-December. This interface has been dormant and has not produced any recent avalanche activity. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be strong and well settled. The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, 220 cm at 1250 m. Many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-70cm of low density new snow from last week has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 60-100cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 100-140cm deep. Recent evidence from the North Columbia region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm low density new snow has accumulated and buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. Another layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is down approximately 40-70cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance where the overlying storm snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development prior to mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline and any area where the surface hoar may have formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 70-110cm deep. Recent reports show this layer to be unreactive at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On Friday into Saturday, 20-35 cm of storm snow fell on top of 25 cm of previous very low density storm snow. Winds (at times strong from the south west) have modified the snow pack, creating an &quot;upside-down&quot; storm slab layer with stiffer snow on top of softer snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This upside-down storm snow layer overlies roughly 50 cm of old storm snow from last week that formed into stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain near ridge top, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-December layer is now buried 60-80 cm below the surface. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow fell on Thursday into Saturday morning, with generally light winds. That said, some areas of the region (Crowsnest Pass) saw strong east winds while others (Elk valley) had lower snowfall amounts. In wind exposed areas this new snow overlies variable wind slabs up to 80 cm thick in some areas. In sheltered areas, 30-60 cm of unconsolidated old storm snow has been covered.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has produced whumpfing as well as moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/63f1a6b2-9795-4cdf-a45a-06f7a8e4a5e1" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please post your own reports!</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 50 to 70 cm of storm snow with wind out the southwest, south and southeast that was strong at times. All of this new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline. Warming temperatures will likely allow the storm snow to settle into a more cohesive slab. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but could come to life as the overlying slab becomes more cohesive as temperatures warm. Beneath the December 15th layer, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Friday night's storm produced about 30 cm in the north of the region and almost 40 cm in the south. That brings the total from the two successive storms to approximately 50 to 80 cm. The bulk of the wind during the storms was out of the southwest, south and southeast but there were periods of northeast and easterly winds too. All of this new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline. Wind slabs are common in wind exposed terrain, but it's thought the snow is largely unconsolidated in protected areas. As temperatures begin to warm on Monday the storm snow will likely settle into a more cohesive slab. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust buried mid-December exits throughout the region. This crust is down around 30 to 60 cm in the Duffey. Around the Coquihalla it's about 100 cm below the surface. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity, but it could come to life as the overlying slab gains cohesion.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally 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">Cold temperatures and strong winds (from the south east, and more recently from the west) have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In non-wind affected terrain, 20-40 cm of unconsolidated (aka faceted or 'sugary') snow overlies the mid-December crust layer. This snow has been sluffing in steep terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around this basal crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own observations to the MIN!</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">30-50cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 50-70cm.The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-120cm deep. A report from last week in the southwest end of this region suggests it may be reactive in steep, variably loaded terrain features in the alpine. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 30-50cm. The bond at this old snow interface is of critical importance in areas where the overlying snow has consolidated into a slab. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before the storm, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at tree line elevations. This interface has shown some signs of reactivity in the adjacent North Columbia region limited to steep, variably loaded alpine features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 25 to 50 cm of low density storm snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the east, southeast, south and southwest. The new snow overlies 3 to 5 mm surface hoar, but we don't know much about the distribution of this weak layer yet.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The bond at this variable interface is of critical importance, especially in areas where the overlying slab is deep and well-consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is thought to be strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent HST is slowly settling with the cooler temps. Windslabs developing in open alpine areas on all aspects but still not reactive to skier traffic. North area of the forecast region (Tent and Commonwealth) seems to have seen more widespread winds but this seem to be localized to this area. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 40 to 80 cm of snow over the last few days. Friday night's storm started as rain before turning to snow overnight. The brief period of rain followed by snow and cooling temperatures is thought to have helped the snowpack to settle and stabilize. Forecast warm temperatures on Monday should allow the old storm snow to further settle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface you'll likely find a couple of melt-freeze crusts which were buried mid-December. This interface has been dormant and has not produced any recent avalanche activity. Below this, the snowpack is thought to be strong and well settled. The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, 220 cm at 1250 m. Many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-70cm of low density new snow from last week has buried a layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. This new snow is expected to start to consolidate into a slab once forecast warmer temperatures take effect, but so far the upper snow has been remained light and soft. Of much greater concern from an avalanche point of view is a weak layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, a sun crust and/or sugary facets, and is now down approximately 60-100cm.The bond at this interface is highly variable. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 100-140cm deep. Treeline snow depths are in the region of 200 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm low density new snow has accumulated and buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. Another layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is down approximately 40-70cm and has been reported at elevations up to 2400 m.&nbsp; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 70-110cm deep. Recent reports show this layer to be unreactive at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At the end of last week, 20-35 cm of storm snow fell on top of 25 cm of previous very low density storm snow. Winds (at times strong from the south west) have modified the snow pack, creating an &quot;upside-down&quot; storm slab layer with stiffer snow on top of softer snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">This upside-down storm snow layer overlies roughly 50 cm of old storm snow from last week that formed into stiff wind slabs in exposed terrain near ridge top, but remains low density in sheltered areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-December layer is now buried 40-60 cm below the surface. The layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow fell on Thursday into Saturday morning, with generally light winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has consistently shown its reactivity, even on small features below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. Cooler north and east facing features remain cold and dry. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Thursday and Friday two successive storms produced 50 to 70 cm of snow with wind mainly out of the south. The new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline, but avalanche activity on this interface continues to decrease as time and warm temperatures allow the old storm snow to settle and gain cohesion. Wind effect in the alpine has been widely reported but wind slab activity has been limited.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. Cooler north and east facing features remain cold and dry. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Thursday and Friday two successive storms produced 50 to 80 cm of snow with wind mainly out of the south. The new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline, but avalanche activity on this interface continues to decrease as time and warm temperatures allow the old storm snow to settle and gain cohesion. Wind effect in the alpine has been widely reported but wind slab activity has been limited to the usual suspect places as per the activity discussion above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust buried mid-December exits throughout the region. This crust is down around 30 to 60 cm in the Duffey. Around the Coquihalla it's about 100 cm below the surface. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally 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 about 5cm of new snow fell as we woke up to a new year. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures and strong winds (from a wide range of directions) have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. Cornices have also been noted at ridge tops, lee (downwind) to strong north east winds last week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In non-wind affected terrain, 20-40 cm of unconsolidated (aka faceted or 'sugary') snow overlies the mid-December crust layer. This snow has been sluffing in steep terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around this basal crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on recent conditions check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own observations to the MIN!</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">30-50cm of low density new snow from last week has buried a layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. This new snow is expected to start to consolidate into a slab once forecast warmer temperatures take effect, but so far the upper snow has been remained light and soft. Of greater concern is a weak layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, a sun crust and/or sugary facets, and is now down approximately 50-70cm.The bond at this interface is highly variable. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-120cm deep. Treeline snow depths are in the region of 200 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 30-50cm. This layer is most prevalent in sheltered locations at treeline and below. Until recently, the snow above both of these weak layers has been soft and unconsolidated. Forecast warmer temperatures are expected to make the upper snow more dense, which could increase the likelihood of triggering on these layers. A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at treeline elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 25 to 50 cm of low density storm snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the east, southeast, south and southwest. The new snow overlies 3 to 5 mm surface hoar, but we don't know much about the distribution of this weak layer yet.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion. This interface has hit the tipping point for human triggering as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above. Warming temperatures will likely make it more volatile on Tuesday. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is thought to be strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Another cold night led to surface facetting. Previous storm snow is settling slowly. Alpine areas have a wide variety of wind slab conditions, including bullet-proof hard slab, recently formed soft slabs and buried wind slabs. At Treeline elevations expect isolated slabs, primarily around ridge-crests. Forecasters continue to track the Dec 15th surface hoar, but due to the lack of an overlying slab this layer has not been overly reactive.....yet. In the lower 1/3 of the snowpack the November and October rain crusts are facetting and remain on the radar for future potential avalanche problems.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 40 to 80 cm of snow over the last week. On Monday temperatures warmed dramatically. As of 14:00 on January 1st the Deeks Peak weather station (1280 m) was reporting +2.5 c, Mt. Strachan (1420 m) was reporting +4 c. These warm temperatures combined with Friday night's rain event should allow the entire snowpack to settle and stabilize. Forecast warm temperatures through the week should allow for further settlement.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind effect in the alpine has been widely reported but wind slab activity has been limited to isolated terrain features with one or more of the following characteristics; steep, unsupported and/or convex. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, 220 cm at 1250 m. Many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40-70cm of low density new snow from last week has buried a layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. This new snow is expected to start to consolidate into a slab once forecast warmer temperatures take effect, but so far the upper snow has been remained light and soft. Of much greater concern from an avalanche point of view is a weak layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, a sun crust and/or sugary facets, and is now down approximately 60-80cm.The bond at this interface is highly variable. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 100-140cm deep. Treeline snow depths are in the region of 200 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm low density new snow has accumulated and buried a recently formed layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. Another layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is down approximately 40-70cm and has been reported at elevations up to 2400 m. The likelihood of triggering avalanches on either of these layers is related to how dense the upper snowpack is. In areas where the upper snowpack has settled into a firmer slab, the weak layers below are more likely to be triggered. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 70-110cm deep. Recent reports show this layer to be unreactive at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-December layer (with variable distribution, but commonly found between 1600m and 1800m) is now buried 40-70 cm below the surface. This layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations, winds (at times strong from the south west) have modified the snow pack, creating an &quot;upside-down&quot; slab layer with stiffer snow on top of softer snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow fell on at the end of last week. Since then, strong winds from a wide range of directions have blown snow around: In the south of the region winds were from the south west; whereas in the north the winds were from the north east. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has consistently shown its reactivity, even on small features below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. By Tuesday the upper 5 cm of the snowpack had started to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Thursday and Friday two successive storms produced 50 to 70 cm of snow with wind mainly out of the south. The new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline, but avalanche activity on this interface continues to decrease as time and warm temperatures allow the old storm snow to settle and gain cohesion. Wind effect in the alpine has been extensive but reported wind slab avalanche activity has ceased.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. By Tuesday the upper 5 cm of the snowpack had started to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Thursday and Friday two successive storms produced 50 to 80 cm of snow with wind mainly out of the south. The new snow rests on a variety of old surfaces including crust on solar aspects, old wind slabs, facets and isolated surface hoar below treeline, but avalanche activity on this interface continues to decrease as time and warm temperatures allow the old storm snow to settle and gain cohesion. Wind effect in the alpine has been widely reported but wind slab activity has slowed to a trickle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust buried mid-December exits throughout the region. This crust is down around 30 to 60 cm in the Duffey. Around the Coquihalla it's about 100 cm below the surface. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally 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 about 10cm of new snow has fallen in the new year. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures and strong winds (from a wide range of directions) have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. Cornices have also been noted at ridge tops, lee (downwind) to strong north east winds last week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In non-wind affected terrain, 20-40 cm of unconsolidated (aka faceted or 'sugary') snow overlies the mid-December crust layer. This snow has been sluffing in steep terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary snow may exist around this basal crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on conditions from last week (which haven't changed too much) check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own observations to the MIN!</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">30-50cm of low density new snow from last week has buried a layer of weak feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. This new snow is expected to start to consolidate into a slab once forecast warmer temperatures take effect, but so far the upper snow has been remained light and soft. Of greater concern is a weak layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, a sun crust and/or sugary facets, and is now down approximately 50-70cm.The bond at this interface is highly variable. The most concerning areas are those that saw pronounced surface hoar development before mid-December, such as sheltered areas at and below treeline, sheltered northerly aspects in the alpine, or anywhere the surface hoar formed on top of a sun crust. Recent snowpack tests show wide ranging reactivity on this weak layer but suggest that it may be most reactive on northerly aspects. A rain crust that formed in late November is now buried 80-120cm deep. Treeline snow depths are in the region of 200 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30cm of low density new snow has buried a recently formed layer of feathery surface hoar and/or sugary facets. A layer buried mid-December that consists of surface hoar, sun crust and/or sugary facets is now down approximately 30-50cm. This layer is most prevalent in sheltered locations at treeline and below. Until recently, the snow above both of these weak layers has been soft and unconsolidated. Forecast warmer temperatures are expected to make the upper snow more dense, which could increase the likelihood of triggering on these layers. A crust which was formed by rain in late November is another major feature in the snowpack and is down approximately 70-100cm at treeline elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week two successive storms produced 25 to 50 cm of low density storm snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the east, southeast, south and southwest. The new snow overlies the late December surface hoar which is 3 to 5 mm in size. We don't know much about the distribution of this weak layer yet. Warming temperatures on Tuesday began to moisten the snow surface on steep southerly aspects. Surface hoar has started to blossom on the surface recently too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion. This interface has hit the tipping point for human triggering as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is thought to be strong and well-settled. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface faceting continues and surface hoar growth in sheltered areas. Minor pin-wheeling in steep solar aspects. Variable wind slab conditions in the Alpine including bullet-proof hard slab, recently formed soft slabs and buried wind slabs. The Dec 15th surface hoar remains a layer of concern, but due to the lack of an overlying slab this layer has not been overly reactive. In the lower third of the snowpack the November and October rain crusts are facetting and remain on the radar for future potential avalanche problems.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 40 to 80 cm of snow over the last week. On Monday and Tuesday temperatures warmed dramatically. On Tuesday the Deeks Peak weather station (1280 m) got up to +8.7 C, Mt. Strachan (1420 m) topped out at +6.5 C. These warm temperatures combined with Friday night's rain event should allow the entire snowpack to settle and stabilize. Forecast warm temperatures through the week should allow for further settlement.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind effect in the alpine has been widely reported but wind slab activity has been limited to isolated terrain features with one or more of the following characteristics; steep, unsupported and/or convex. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, 220 cm at 1250 m. Many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming is starting to turn dry powder into a cohesive slab in some areas. The main troublemaker in the snowpack at the moment is a layer of feathery surface hoar down 50-70 cm, buried in mid-December. In places this interface exists as a crust/facet combo. It is most prevalent around treeline, but it may be more widespread in some locations. A little more warming, precipitation and/or wind-loading could be all that is needed to turn powder into an easy-to-trigger slab above this touchy interface. It's tricky to predict and even professionals are scratching their heads a bit about exactly when and where this beast will wake up. Its a good time for conservative decision-making.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (about 100-140 cm down), a rain crust from November remains in the back of our minds, but it is considered dormant for now. If you have any recent observations, please share them through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming is starting to turn dry powder into a cohesive slab in some areas. The main troublemaker in the snowpack at the moment is a layer of feathery surface hoar down 40-70 cm, buried in mid-December. In places this interface exists as a crust/facet combo. It is most prevalent around treeline, but has been reported as high as 2400 m. A little more warming, precipitation and/or wind-loading could be all that is needed to turn powder into an easy-to-trigger slab above this touchy interface. It's tricky to predict and even professionals are scratching their heads a bit about exactly when and where this beast will wake up. It’s a good time for conservative decision-making.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (about 70-110 cm down), a rain crust from November remains in the back of our minds, but it is considered dormant for now. If you have any recent observations, please share them through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-December layer (with variable distribution, but commonly found between 1600m and 1800m) is now buried 40-70 cm below the surface. This layer includes crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below treeline, and has been producing moderate, sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations, winds (at times strong from the south west) have modified the snow pack, creating an &quot;upside-down&quot; slab layer with stiffer snow on top of softer snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow fell on at the end of last week. Since then, strong winds from a wide range of directions have blown snow around: In the south of the region winds were from the south west; whereas in the north the winds were from the north east. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main question in the snowpack surrounds the mid-December layer sitting beneath the recent snow. This layer includes crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below treeline, and has consistently shown its reactivity, even on small features below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary snow and a few early season crusts that have not produced significant test results recently.</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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. By Tuesday the upper 5 cm of the snowpack had started to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Thursday and Friday two successive storms produced 50 to 70 cm of snow with wind mainly out of the south. Time and warm temperatures have allowed this snow to settle and bond well with the underlying surface. The exception may be below treeline where there may be isolated pockets of buried surface hoar. Wind effect in the alpine has been extensive but reported wind slab avalanche activity has ceased.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. By Tuesday the upper 5 cm of the snowpack had started to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On December 28th and 29th two successive storms produced 50 to 80 cm of snow. On December 29th and 30th strong to extreme winds out of the southwest, south and southeast created widespread wind effect. Time and warm temperatures have allowed this snow to settle and bond well with the underlying surface. The exception may be with wind slabs in more extreme terrain and isolated pockets of buried surface hoar below treeline. A widespread melt-freeze crust may still be an issue in the northern portion of the region where it's down 50 to 70 cm below the surface, but is likely trending towards dormancy. Around the Coquihalla this interface is now thought to be part of a well bonded mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally 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">Up to 10cm of new snow has fallen in some parts of the region so far in the new year. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cold temperatures and strong winds (from a wide range of directions) have affected the surface snow over the past week, scouring some slopes down to an old crust and forming hard deposits in many other areas. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. Cornices have also been noted at ridge tops, lee (downwind) to strong north east winds last week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In non-wind affected terrain, 20-40 cm of faceted (sugary) snow overlies the mid-December crust layer. This snow has been sluffing in steep terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary faceted snow may exist around this deeply buried crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region, with the most dramatic winds associated with outflow conditions in western parts of the region near coastal inlets. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">For an update on conditions from last week (which haven't changed too much) check out the Mountain Information Network (MIN) report </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/northwest-inland?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/f845dc8a-adda-41aa-82ae-f7c6a33a5147#" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. And please submit your own observations to the MIN!</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">Warming is starting to turn dry powder into a cohesive slab in some areas. The main troublemaker in the snowpack at the moment is a layer of feathery surface hoar down 50-70 cm, buried in mid-December. In places this interface exists as a crust/facet combo. It is most prevalent around treeline, but it may be more widespread in some locations. A little more warming, precipitation and/or wind-loading could be all that is needed to turn powder into an easy-to-trigger slab above this touchy interface. It's tricky to predict and even professionals are scratching their heads a bit about exactly when and where this beast will wake up. It's a good time for conservative decision-making.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (about 80-120 cm down), a rain crust from November remains in the back of our minds, but it is considered dormant for now. If you have any recent observations, please share them through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming, particularly at treeline elevations, could wake up persistent weak layers. The upper snowpack consists of dry snow (becoming moist on sunny slopes) overlying a couple of layers of buried surface hoar (feathery frost crystals). The deeper of these, buried mid-December and down 30-60 cm, is the main concern. A little warming, precipitation and/or wind-loading could be all that is needed to turn powder into a slab above this touchy interface. The buried surface hoar is most prevalent at and below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (about 70-100 cm down), a rain crust from November remains in the back of our minds, but it is considered dormant for now. If you have any recent observations, please share them through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week two successive storms produced 25 to 50 cm of low density storm snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the east, southeast, south and southwest. The new snow overlies the late December surface hoar which is 3 to 5 mm in size. We don't know much about the distribution of this weak layer yet. Warming alpine temperatures on Tuesday began to moisten the snow surface on steep southerly aspects. Surface hoar has started to blossom on the surface recently too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion. This interface has hit the tipping point for human triggering as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two laminated crusts created by twin rain events in late November lay just below the December 15th interface, 60 to 100 cm below the surface. There may be facets above the uppermost crust and sandwiched between the two crusts.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar growth continues with the cold, clear and calm weather. It is not clear yet how widespread this latest surface hoar is. The snowpack has lost a lot of its strength through facetting, especially near the surface. So far none of the crusts or storm interface from last week have woken up, and appear to be hanging in there for the time being. Having said that, it does feel like the the deeper layers could wake up with even a slight change in conditions. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 40 to 80 cm of snow late last week. This week temperatures warmed dramatically. On Tuesday the Deeks Peak weather station (1280 m) got up to +8.7 C, Mt. Strachan (1420 m) topped out at +6.5 C. These warm temperatures combined with last Friday night's rain event have allowed the entire snowpack to settle and stabilize. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, 220 cm at 1250 m. Many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A persistent weak layer buried mid-December is buried 40-70 cm below the surface. This layer can be found in a variety of locations, but most commonly can be found between 1600m and 1800m and consists of crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below tree line. It has been producing sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations, wind has modified the snow pack creating a stiffer snow on top of softer snow condition. The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust has been reported to be unreactive, however it is possible that it may have been the bed surface for a skier triggered avalanche that happened on Thursday (See Avalanche Activity section below for details).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow fell to end 2017. Since then, moderate to strong winds from a wide range of directions have redistributed that snow into wind slabs tree line and above. The main concern in the snowpack is a weak layer buried mid-December, which consists of a crust on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below tree line. This layer has consistently shown to be reactive to human triggers. The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary faceted snow and a early season crusts. </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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. By Tuesday the upper 5 cm of the snowpack had started to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Thursday and Friday two successive storms produced 50 to 70 cm of snow with wind mainly out of the south. Time and warm temperatures have allowed this snow to settle and bond well with the underlying surface. The exception may be below treeline where there may be isolated pockets of buried surface hoar. Wind effect in the alpine has been extensive but reported wind slab avalanche activity has ceased.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">40 to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </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">On Sunday a slight crust began to form on south and southwest facing aspects as warm temperatures and sun combined to moisten the snow surface. By Tuesday the upper 5 cm of the snowpack had started to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On December 28th and 29th two successive storms produced 50 to 80 cm of snow. On December 29th and 30th strong to extreme winds out of the southwest, south and southeast created widespread wind effect. Time and warm temperatures have allowed this snow to settle and bond well with the underlying surface. The exception may be with wind slabs in more extreme terrain and isolated pockets of buried surface hoar below treeline. A widespread melt-freeze crust may still be an issue in the northern portion of the region where it's down 50 to 70 cm below the surface, but is likely trending towards dormancy. Around the Coquihalla this interface is now thought to be part of a well bonded mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally 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">10-20cm of new snow has fallen throughout the region so far in the new year. Recent above freezing temperatures up to1400m has settled the recent new snow rapidly and begun to build a thin storm slab. Above tree line the new snow has been redistributed by primarily southerly winds. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. Cornices have also been noted at ridge tops, with strong north east winds last week. In non-wind affected terrain, 20-40 cm of faceted (sugary) snow overlies the mid-December crust layer.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary faceted snow may exist around this deeply buried crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface snow has been affected by winds from a variety of directions. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warming trend and additional snow could create a dangerous slab above buried weak layers. Numerous persistent weak layers exist in the snowpack. Dry snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deeper layer (December 15) buried 30 to 60 cm. This layer is found most often at treeline and below treeline. If the dry snow becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface is variable, consisting of dry snow on shaded aspects, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and wind effect in exposed alpine and treeline locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack at depths of about 70 to 100 cm, a rain crust from November is producing variable snowpack test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result. This layer is considered dormant for now, but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have any recent observations, please share them through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week two successive storms produced 25 to 50 cm of low density storm snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the east, southeast, south and southwest. The new snow overlies the late December surface hoar which is 3 to 5 mm in size. We don't know much about the distribution of this weak layer yet. Warming alpine temperatures on Tuesday began to moisten the snow surface on steep southerly aspects. Surface hoar has started to blossom on the surface recently too.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which consists of a melt-freeze crust on steep, solar, higher elevation slopes and well-developed surface hoar which seems most pronounced in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion. This interface has hit the tipping point for human triggering as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two laminated crusts created by twin rain events in late November lay just below the December 15th interface, 60 to 100 cm below the surface. There may be facets above the uppermost crust and sandwiched between the two crusts.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar continues to grow with the chilly, clear nights. Interestingly, there are bands of it from valley bottom to to about 1950 and then as you move higher it shows up again from 2000-2100, and then again at the top of treeline. It could very likely go higher, but we haven't traveled into the alpine lately. Aside from that, the most notable character of the snowpack is the very poor bond in the upper layers. The cold has taken a toll! Today we dug at treeline in the northern part of the region. The Nov crust was down about 60cm and well bonded despite there being facets above and below it. The deeper layers were also well bonded.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two successive storms produced 40 to 80 cm of snow late last week. This week temperatures warmed dramatically. On Wednesday the Deeks Peak weather station (1280 m) got up to +8.7 C, Mt. Strachan (1220 m) topped out at +11.4 C. These warm temperatures combined with last Friday night's rain event have allowed the entire snowpack to settle and stabilize, but heavy rainfall could induce a round of natural avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">50 to 100 cm below the surface there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack depth is about 160 cm at 1000 m, 220 cm at 1250 m. Many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warming trend and new snowfall are creating a dangerous slab above buried weak layers in some areas. Numerous persistent weak layers exist in the snowpack. Dry snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deeper layer (December 15) buried 50 to 70 cm. This layer is found most often around and below treeline. As the overlying dry snow becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches. Where and when this will occur is tricky to predict and even professionals are scratching their heads about it. It is a good time for conservative decision-making.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow is falling on variable surfaces, including surface hoar in sheltered slopes, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and wind effect in exposed alpine and treeline locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack at depths of about 90 to 150 cm, a rain crust from November is producing variable snowpack test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result. This layer is considered dormant for now, but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Please share your observations through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A persistent weak layer buried mid-December is 40-70 cm below the surface. This layer can be found in a variety of locations, but most commonly between 1600m and 1800m and consists of crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below tree line. It has been producing sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations, wind has modified the snow pack creating a stiffer snow on top of softer snow condition. The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust has generally been reported to be unreactive, however it is possible that it may have been the bed surface for a skier triggered avalanche that happened on Thursday (See Avalanche Activity section above for details).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">See </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/blogs/baby-its-complicated" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">here</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for a recent forecaster blog for a summary of the tricky conditions in the snowpack and strategies on how to work around a persistent slab problem. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 45 cm of snow fell to end 2017. Since then, temperatures have warmed up from the deep freeze and moderate to strong winds (primarily from the south west) have redistributed that snow into wind slabs at tree line and above. Some windward slopes have been scoured to ground. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the snowpack is a weak layer buried mid-December, which consists of a crust on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered terrain at and below tree line. This layer has consistently shown to be reactive to human triggers. The lower snowpack is composed of mostly soft sugary faceted snow and early season crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Avalanche hazard for tree line elevations and below may be one step lower in areas east of the divide.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">See </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/blogs/baby-its-complicated" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">here</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for a recent forecaster blog for a summary of the tricky conditions in the snowpack and strategies on how to work around a persistent slab problem. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></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">Rain Friday reportedly soaked the upper 15 to 20 cm of the snowpack and left all aspects with moist snow on the surface from valley bottom to at least 2000 m, maybe even ridgetop. As temperatures begin to cool Friday night we can expect a thin melt freeze crust to form on the surface. New snow and wind Friday night into Saturday will likely allow for the formation of fresh storm slabs on this crust at upper elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures likely produced a few millimeters of rain as high as 2000 m on Friday, this likely occurred throughout the region. Previous to Friday's rain event, warm alpine temperatures had allowed the upper 5 cm of the snowpack to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. As temperatures cool Friday night a crust is expected to form on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On December 28th and 29th two successive storms produced 50 to 80 cm of snow. On December 29th and 30th strong to extreme winds out of the southwest, south and southeast created widespread wind effect. Time and warm temperatures allowed this snow to settle and bond well with the underlying surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust formed in mid-December may still be an issue in the northern portion of the region where it's down 50 to 100 cm below the surface, but is likely trending towards dormancy. Around the Coquihalla this interface is now thought to be part of a well bonded mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally 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">In the south of the region, recent warming and light rain (or freezing rain in some locations) has settled the 5-10cm of new snow and begun to build a thin storm slab. Above tree line the new snow has been redistributed by primarily southerly winds. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region there has been 20-30cm of storm snow since New Year's eve, with moderate to strong southerly winds. Warming temperatures and forecast snow are expected to form touchy storm slabs at all elevations. Danger ratings in the north of the region are likely one step higher than listed on the main page. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary faceted snow may exist around this deeply buried crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Only 3-5 cm of wet heavy snow fell on Thursday. This new snow sits on a wide variety of surfaces which had been affected by warming temperatures and variable winds. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warming trend and additional snow could create a dangerous slab above buried weak layers. Numerous persistent weak layers exist in the snowpack. Dry snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deeper layer (December 15) buried 30 to 60 cm. This layer is shallower in the north of the region and deeper in the south of the region. The weak layer is found most often at treeline and below treeline. If the dry snow becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow is falling on variable surfaces, including surface hoar in sheltered slopes, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and wind effect in exposed alpine and treeline locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack at depths of about 70 to 100 cm, a rain crust from November is producing variable snowpack test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result. This layer is considered dormant for now, but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have any recent observations, please share them through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storms last week produced 25 to 50 cm of low density snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds generally out of the south. This snow rests on the late December surface hoar in sheltered locations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming alpine temperatures this week began to moisten the snow surface on steep southerly aspects and surface hoar once again covers the present surface in many locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 50 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find the December 15th interface which is comprised of well-developed surface hoar that is most pronounced at treeline, but it is present below treeline too. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion with time and continued warm temperatures as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two laminated crusts created by twin rain events in late November lay just below the December 15th interface, 70 to 110 cm below the surface. Facets may be found sandwiched between the two crusts and have been observed above the uppermost crust too. In shallow rocky terrain the mid December Surface Hoar and the late November crust seem to be reacting together which is a volatile combination. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The warm temps continued overnight which helped to settle the surface snow. As a whole, the low elevation snowpack is still weak. Especially around trees or exposed rocks. Treeline conditions have changed very little in the last 24 hours. The upper snowpack is weak, but the mid to lower pack is stronger and able to carry the weight of a skier. The Dec 15 &amp; Nov 27th layers are apparent, but not reacting to moderate loads at this time. The warmer temperatures and clear skies have created suncrusts and moist snow on all solar aspects. The alpine winds picked up overnight as well and began to create windslabs in exposed areas above treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Friday January 5th the rain began to fall in earnest. As of 17:00 on Friday evening the Strachan Precip Station at 1220 m had recorded 53 mm of total rain fall. This rain has saturated the entire snowpack on all but the highest elevation slopes. 50 to 100 cm below the surface there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December. Snowpack investigation Friday afternoon revealed rain is not pooling at these crusts with any significance.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain has reduced the snowpack depth at 1000 m to about 140 cm and many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warming trend and small amounts of new snow are creating a dangerous slab above buried weak layers in some areas. Numerous persistent weak layers exist in the snowpack. Dry snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deeper layer (December 15) buried 40 to 80 cm. This layer is found most often around and below treeline but has been reported as high as 2400 m. As the overlying dry snow becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches. Where and when this will occur is tricky to predict and even professionals are scratching their heads about it. It is a good time for conservative decision-making.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow surface is variable, consisting of dry snow on shaded aspects, a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and wind effect in exposed alpine and treeline locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack ( 70 to 110 cm), a November crust is producing variable snowpack test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result. This layer is considered dormant but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Please share your recent observations through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10cm of new snow by Saturday morning (18mm water equivalent) and warming temperatures has added significant load to the snowpack and increased slab properties above weak layers (see below). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A persistent weak layer buried mid-December is 40-70 cm below the surface. This layer can be found in a variety of locations, but most commonly between 1600m and 1800m and consists of crusts on south and west facing slopes and feathery surface hoar in sheltered areas at and below tree line. It has been producing sudden results in recent snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations, wind has modified the snow pack creating a stiffer snow on top of softer snow condition. The lower snowpack is generally well settled with a thick prominent crust that was buried near the end of November. This crust has generally been reported to be unreactive, however it is possible that it may have been the bed surface for a skier triggered avalanche that happened on Thursday (See Avalanche Activity section above for details).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">See </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/blogs/baby-its-complicated" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">here</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for a recent forecaster blog for a summary of the tricky conditions in the snowpack and strategies on how to work around a persistent slab problem. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Rain Friday reportedly soaked the upper 15 to 20 cm of the snowpack and left all aspects with moist snow on the surface from valley bottom to at least 2000m, maybe even ridgetop. As temperatures began to cool Friday night into Saturday a thin crust formed. The crust is now buried by new snow above 1600m approximately. This new snow has been redistributed by southeast through southwest winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures likely produced a few millimeters of rain as high as 2000 m on Friday, this likely occurred throughout the region. Previous to Friday's rain event, warm alpine temperatures had allowed the upper 5 cm of the snowpack to become moist, even on upper elevation northeast facing features. As temperatures cooled Friday night into Saturday a crust has formed on the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On December 28th and 29th two successive storms produced 50 to 80 cm of snow. On December 29th and 30th strong to extreme winds out of the southwest, south and southeast created widespread wind effect. Time and warm temperatures allowed this snow to settle and bond well with the underlying surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A widespread melt-freeze crust formed in mid-December may still be an issue in the northern portion of the region where it's down 50 to 100 cm below the surface, but is likely trending towards dormancy. Around the Coquihalla this interface is now thought to be part of a well bonded mid-pack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally 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">In the south of the region, recent warming, some rain/freezing rain and daily snowfall of 5 -10 cm has begun to build a thin storm slab. Above tree line the new snow has been redistributed by primarily south - west winds. There are some lingering wind slabs, found on a variety of old surfaces including a thick melt-freeze crust that formed in mid-December. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region there has been 20-40cm of storm snow since New Year's eve, with moderate to strong southerly winds. Warming temperatures and forecast snow are expected to form touchy storm slabs at all elevations. Danger ratings in the north of the region are likely one step higher than listed on the main page. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October, basal crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary faceted snow may exist around this deeply buried crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Only 3-5 cm of wet heavy snow fell on Thursday. This new snow sits on a wide variety of surfaces which had been affected by warming temperatures and variable winds. The degree of wind effect varies throughout the region. Sheltered areas may still have 10-30 cm of powder from previous storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near 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 fell on surface hoar in sheltered slopes and a sun crust on steep solar aspects and may not bond well to them.  The snow also may have fallen with moderate southwesterly winds in the alpine, which could have produced small wind slabs in lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The additional snow could create a dangerous slab above buried weak layers.  Numerous persistent weak layers exist in the snowpack.  Dry snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deeper layer (December 15) buried 40 to 80 cm.  This layer is found most often around and below treeline.  As the overlying dry snow becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches.  Snowpack tests are showing that this layer could form avalanches (i.e. sudden fracture characters, high propagation potential, whumpfing, rutschblock 1 to 3).  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (90 to 150 cm), a November crust is producing variable test results, from sudden to no result.  This layer is considered dormant but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Please share your recent observations through the </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submit" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Mountain Information Network</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warming alpine temperatures this week began to moisten the snow surface on steep southerly aspects and surface hoar once again covers the present surface in many locations. Up to 10cm of new snow now sits on the previous surfaces. Storms last week produced 25 to 50 cm of low density snow that was accompanied by moderate to strong winds generally out of the south. This snow rests on a surface hoar layer buried late in December surface hoar. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 50 and 100 cm below the surface you'll find a layer of well-developed surface hoar buried mid-December. This layer is most pronounced at treeline, but it is present below treeline also. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion with time and continued warm temperatures, as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two laminated crusts created by twin rain events in late November lay just below the December 15th interface, 70 to 110 cm below the surface. Facets may be found sandwiched between the two crusts and have been observed above the uppermost crust too. In shallow rocky terrain the mid December Surface Hoar and the late November crust seem to be reacting together which is a volatile combination. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Low down, the settlement from the past few warm days is quite noticeable. Unfortunately, the faceting in the mid to lower pack is still obvious. In many places, the snow has that distinct &quot;upside down&quot; feel to it. The exposed surface hoar  has begun to break down with the warmth. At treeline the winds have created widespread windslabs that are sitting on either weak facets, or in some isolated areas, the preserved surface hoar from Dec 15. The alpine now has windslabs on N-S aspects from today's moderate westerly winds. So far no layers have woken up, but during our field day today we had the feeling that the snowpack is changing for the worse. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">On Friday January 5th the rain began to fall in earnest. By Friday evening the Strachan weather Station at 1220m had recorded 53mm of total rain fall. This rain has saturated the entire snowpack on all but the highest elevation slopes. Gradually cooling temperatures through the day on Saturday have more than likely created a crust on the surface of the snow at elevations above 1100m. Looking down into the snowpack there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December and are now 50 to 100cm below the surface. Snowpack investigation Friday afternoon revealed rain is not pooling at these crusts with any significance.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The rain has reduced the snowpack depth at 1000m to about 140cm and many early season hazards are still present at lower elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-30 cm of new snow has accumulated on surface hoar in sheltered slopes and a sun crust on steep solar aspects.  The snow is forming a storm slab, which may not bond well to the underlying layers.  The snow also fell with moderate to strong southwesterly winds in the alpine, which produced wind slabs in lee features at treeline and alpine elevations.  Below treeline, this new snow is mainly a concern in openings (e.g. cut blocks, gullies, cut banks).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The additional snow could create a dangerous slab above buried weak layers.  40-80 cm of snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar (buried on December 27 and December 15). The layers are found most often around and below treeline. As the overlying snow forms a cohesive slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (90 to 150 cm), a November crust is producing variable test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result.  This layer is considered dormant but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow (2-15 cm across the region) has accumulated on surface hoar in sheltered slopes and a sun crust on steep solar aspects. This new snow may be deeper in northwesterly lee features due to moderate southwesterly winds at treeline and alpine elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A warming trend and new snow could create a dangerous slab above buried weak layers in some areas. Numerous persistent weak layers exist in the snowpack. Dry snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deeper layer (December 15) buried 40 to 80 cm. This layer is found most often around and below treeline but has been reported as high as 2400 m. As the overlying dry snow becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches. Where and when this will occur is tricky to predict and even professionals are scratching their heads about it. It is a good time for conservative decision-making.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (70 to 110 cm), a November crust is producing variable snowpack test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result. This layer is considered dormant but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A touchy weak layer from mid-December (predominantly feathery surface hoar crystals and/or a sun crust) is found down about 40-70 cm. It is found at and below treeline, and seems particularly touchy between about 1600-1800 m. As temperatures warm, the slab above this weakness may become even easier to trigger remotely or with the weight of a person.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs and cornices can be found at ridge top. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, an early season rain crust and sugary facets make up the picture. It is possible that a surface avalanche could step down to these layers, creating a surprisingly large event.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs may exist lower on the slope than normal, due to recent extreme south-west winds. Windward alpine slopes are scoured; and variable wind slabs are found at treeline and alpine elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer from mid-December (predominantly feathery surface hoar crystals and/or a sun crust) is found at treeline and below. Avalanches on this layer may be triggered by the weight of a person in certain locations. As temperatures warm, the slab above this weakness may become easy to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack, an early season rain crust and sugary facets make up the picture. Overall snowpack depths are variable across the region. It's generally shallower in the east.</span><span class="s_1681A555" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30cm of new snow sits on a crust that formed on Saturday. This sits above about 20cm of moist snow. The new snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong southeast through southwest winds on Sunday. Up to 100 cm below the surface there is a widespread melt-freeze crust that was buried on December 15th. This layer has not produced much in the way of avalanche activity and is likely trending towards dormancy. Beneath the mid-December crust, the lower snowpack is generally strong and well settled. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of snow sits on a crust that formed after temperatures cooled moist surface snow on Saturday. Two successive storms at the end of December produced 50 to 80 cm of snow, which has long since to settled and bonded to the underlying surface. A widespread melt-freeze crust formed in mid-December may still be an issue in the northern portion of the region where it's down 50 to 100 cm below the surface, but is likely trending towards dormancy. Around the Coquihalla this interface is now thought to be part of a well bonded mid-pack. The lower snowpack is generally 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 snowpack is variable across the region. Wind slabs can be found on a variety of slopes. New snow is expected to create touchy storm slabs in the south and west, but amounts should peter out as you travel north and east.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar/facet interface that was buried on New Years Eve is down about 30-40 cm. Incoming storm snow might bring the load above this layer to its tipping point. A hard crust from mid-December sits deeper in the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Beneath the mid-December crust the snowpack is reported to be generally strong with the possible exception of areas around Stewart and northern parts of the region where the late-October crust can be found near the base of the snowpack. Weak sugary faceted snow may exist around this deeply buried crust and could be triggered from shallow snowpack areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Modest amounts of incoming snow will overlie various old surfaces, including a hard freezing rain crust (which was reported into the alpine in some areas east of Smithers), old crusts and wind slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variable weak layer that formed in mid-December can be found roughly 20 cm below the surface. This mid-December layer is comprised of crusts on solar aspects and feathery surface hoar in sheltered locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The lower snowpack is generally well settled with two prominent crusts. The late-November crust can be found 30-50 cm below the surface and the October crust is near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-30 cm of new snow has accumulated on surface hoar in sheltered slopes and a sun crust on steep solar aspects. The snow is forming a storm slab, which may not bond well to the underlying layers. The snow also fell with moderate to strong southwesterly winds in the alpine, which produced wind slabs in lee features at treeline and alpine elevations. Below treeline, this new snow is mainly a concern in openings (e.g. cutblocks, gullies, cutbanks).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The additional snow could create a dangerous slab above numerous buried weak layers. 40-80 cm of snow overlies two layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar (buried on December 27 and December 15). The layers are found most often around and below treeline. As the overlying snow forms a cohesive slab, this layer has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches. Snowpack tests are showing that this layer could form avalanches (sudden fracture characters, high propagation potential, rutschblock 1 to 3). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack (90 to 150 cm), a November crust is producing variable test results, from sudden to no result. This layer is considered dormant but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 20-30 cm of new snow fell on surface hoar in sheltered slopes and a sun crust on steep solar aspects and may not bond well to them. The snow also fell with moderate southwesterly winds in the alpine, which could have produced small wind slabs in lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow could create a dangerous slab above buried weak layers. Numerous persistent weak layers exist deeper in the snowpack. Dry snow overlies three layers composed of weak and feathery surface hoar, with the deepest layer (December 15) buried 30 to 60 cm. This layer is shallower in the north of the region and deeper in the south of the region. The weak layer is found most often at treeline and below treeline. As the snow above the weak layers becomes more cohesive and forms a slab, the setup has the potential to create easily-triggerable destructive slab avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snowpack at depths of about 70 to 100 cm, a rain crust from November is producing variable snowpack test results, from sudden fracture characters to no result. This layer is considered dormant but could be triggered where the snowpack is thin.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of new snow now sits on a crust on steep southerly aspects and/or on a newly formed layer of surface hoar that was buried January 5th. A series of storms last week produced 25 to 50 cm of low density snow. This means that a surface hoar layer buried late in December is now buried 35-60cm approximately. Dig a bit deeper, you may find yet another surface hoar layer between 60 and 110cm below the surface. This layer was buried buried mid-December and is most pronounced at tree line, but is present below tree line also. The overlying slab is now deep and is gaining cohesion with time and continued warm temperatures, as evidenced by recent avalanche activity listed above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Two laminated crusts created by twin rain events in late November lay just below the mid-December interface, 70 to 110 cm below the surface. Facets may be found sandwiched between the two crusts and have been observed above the uppermost crust too. In shallow rocky terrain the mid-December surface hoar and the late November crust seem to be reacting together which is a volatile combination. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The warm temps and strong winds are creating widespread windslabs in the alpine and specific areas at treeline.  These slabs are 20-30cm thick and failing on weak facets and/or the December 15th interface.  The November crusts are still deeper down in the snowpack but they are facetting out more and more each day and have yet to produce a significant sheer during snowpack tests.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cool temperatures through the day on Saturday created a crust on a previously moist or wet surface. Since then 25-40cm of fresh new snow has fallen to bury this crust. Looking down into the snowpack there are a few prominent melt-freeze crusts that were buried mid-December and are now 50 to 100cm below the surface. After heavy rain last Friday penetrated most of the snowpack, these crust layers have been reported to be bonding to the snow above and below. The rain last week has reduced the snowpack depth at 1000m to about 140cm and many early season hazards are still present at </span></p>