On Wednesday numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground
Caution in steep gullies and terrain traps where a small sluff could have large consequences. Avoid terrain where this problem can initiate slab avalanches on deeper layers.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. If this occurs avalanches will be large and will run to valley bottoms.
In areas where there is a weaker lower pack there is still some potential for avalanches to step down into these weaker areas.
60cm of new snow has the potential to entrain a lot of mass as it moves downhill. Getting pushed into a tree-well or a small hole could have serious consequences with the copious amounts of loose snow that is ready to flow.
Storm slabs have the potential to step down to the December 27th SH, which is now buried over a metre deep.
Avalanche activity related to wind slabs will taper off Friday but human triggered avalanches are still likely
On Wednesday numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground
Caution in steep gullies and terrain traps where a small sluff could have large consequences. Avoid terrain where this problem can initiate slab avalanches on deeper layers.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past 48 hours. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist particularly in areas with a shallower snowpack. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past 48 hours. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
The top 60cm of new snow has the potential to entrain a lot of mass as it moves downhill. Getting pushed over a cliff or into a tree-well or small hole could have serious consequences.
Storm slabs have the potential to step down to the December 27th surface hoar which is now buried over a meter deep.
Avalanche activity will taper off Saturday but human triggered avalanches are still likely.
On Wednesday numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground.
Caution in steep gullies and terrain traps where a small sluff could have large consequences. Avoid terrain where this problem can initiate slab avalanches on deeper layers.
This layer consists of surface hoar / facets and is down 40-60 cm throughout the region and is producing easy to moderate results with stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past 48 hours. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
This layer consists of surface hoar / facets and is down 40-60 cm throughout the region and is producing easy to moderate results with stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past 48 hours. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
Storm slabs have the potential to step down to the December 27th surface hoar down 70-90cm.
This layer consists of surface hoar / facets / sun crust and is down 40-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden' results in stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
This layer consists of surface hoar / facets / sun crust and is down 40-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden' results in stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past few days. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
Avalanche activity has tapered off but human triggered avalanches are still likely.
On Wednesday, numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground. Activity has tapered off but may be waiting for the human trigger.
Caution in steep gullies and terrain traps where a small sluff could have major consequences. Avoid terrain where this problem could initiate slab avalanches on deeper layers.
Watch out for fast-moving dry loose avalanches in steep terrain.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down 70-90cm.&nbsp; This layer was responsible for two skier triggered avalanches yesterday, and continues to produce moderate to hard sudden planar results in snowpack tests.
Numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground. Activity has tapered off but may be waiting for the human trigger.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist although thicker snowpack areas in the region show less development of this weakness. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days :see &quot;Forecast Details&quot;.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down 70-90cm. This layer was responsible for two skier triggered avalanches Saturday, and continues to produce hard sudden results in snowpack tests.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. Click on Forecast Details tab for more information.
Numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground. Activity has tapered off but may be waiting for the human trigger.
Be aware of the potential for rapidly developing windslabs due to the availability of cold, dry snow from recent storm. All aspects may be effected as the wind direction is variable through the forecast period.
Watch out for fast-moving dry loose avalanches in steep terrain.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests. Several skier triggered avalanches have occurred recently on this layer.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist although thicker snowpack areas in the region show less development of this weakness. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days :see &quot;Forecast Details&quot;.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down 70-90cm. This layer was responsible for two skier triggered avalanches Saturday, and continues to produce hard sudden results in snowpack tests.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. See forecast details.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. See forecast details.
Numerous avalanches were observed throughout the region that failed to ground. Activity has tapered off but may be waiting for the human trigger.
Previous Strong winds from many directions formed Wind Slabs at all elevations on specific terrain features. Cold temperatures have slowed down avalanche initiation rendering the wind slabs stubborn to trigger.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down 70-90cm. This layer was responsible for two skier triggered avalanches Saturday, and continues to produce hard sudden results in snowpack tests.
The strength of the bridging over the basal weakness will determine it's sensitivity to triggers. Deep penetrating cold has weakened shallow areas and may be more susceptible to triggering and propagation.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. See forecast details.
This layer may present as surface hoar / facets / or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in past few days. See forecast details.
Strong winds from many directions formed Wind Slabs at all elevations on specific terrain features. These slabs are now concealed by 10cm of new snow. They are beginning to run naturally and will be easy to trigger by humans in the right spots.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down approximately 100cm. This layer is becoming less reactive in stability tests and it is increasingly harder to find in snow profiles, but the potential is still there to get surprised.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past week.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 30-60 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past week.
The strength of the bridging over the basal weakness will determine it's sensitivity to triggers. Deep penetrating cold has weakened shallow areas and may be more susceptible to triggering and propagation.
Watch out for fast-moving dry loose avalanches in steep terrain, especially if temperatures warm quickly.
Multiple field teams confirmed the presence of easily-triggered soft wind slabs in exposed areas at all elevations. With strong southerly winds overnight, expect this problem to persists today. These slabs can have larger than expected propagation.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down approximately 100cm. This layer is becoming less reactive in stability tests and it is increasingly harder to find in snow profiles, but the potential is still there to get surprised.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 40-80 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past week.
Up to 15cm new snow not bonding well to previous surface. As temps warm expect continued dry loose out of steep terrain.
The recent cold weather has promoted facetting and weakening of the snowpack compromising the bridging strength. Potential for triggering these deeper layers could increase as temperatures warm.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 40-80 cm throughout the region and is producing 'sudden planar' results in stability tests.
The potential for deeper releases on the basal layers still exist. Several large avalanches have occurred on this layer in the past week.
As temperatures warm, the basal facets may become a player again, especially in the relatively shallow front ranges. Consider overhead hazard, the consequence of a small avalanche triggering a deeper slab, and stick to deep well supported terrain.
Multiple field teams confirmed the presence of easily-triggered soft wind slabs in exposed areas at all elevations. Expect this problem to persists today. These slabs can have larger than expected propagation.
The December 27th surface hoar layer persists down approximately 100cm. This layer is becoming less reactive in stability tests and it is increasingly harder to find in snow profiles, but the potential is still there to get surprised.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
Only large triggers like cornices have caused the odd slide on the deep facets/depth hoar recently, but it is almost impossible to forecast with any accuracy which avalanche slopes could be triggered. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
Up to 15cm new snow not bonding well to previous surface. As temps warm expect continued dry loose sluffs out of steep terrain.
The recent cold weather has promoted facetting and weakening of the snowpack compromising the bridging strength. Potential for triggering these deeper layers could increase as temperatures warm.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
Thicker snowpack areas in the region may not have this layer present, but where it exists it is hard to predict what will trigger a slope with any accuracy. Dig down to see if it is present, and if so conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
The December 27th surface hoar/crust layer persists down approximately 100cm. This layer is becoming less reactive in stability tests and it is increasingly harder to find in snow profiles, but the potential is still there to get surprised.
The recent cold weather has promoted facetting and weakening of the snowpack compromising the bridging strength. Potential for triggering these deeper layers could increase as temperatures warm.
Up to 15cm new snow may not be bonding well to previous surface. As temps warm, expect continued dry loose sluffs out of steep terrain.
As temperatures warm, the basal facets may become a player again, especially in the relatively shallow front ranges. Consider overhead hazard, the consequence of a small avalanche triggering a deeper slab, and stick to deep well supported terrain.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
Were beginning to receive reports of increased avalanche activity from the problem (see forecast details for more info) Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
This layer may present as surface hoar, facets or sun crust. It is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
Were beginning to receive reports of increased avalanche activity from the problem (see forecast details for more info) Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
We have seen a few recent avalanches on the deep persistent problem of basal facets and depth hoar, often beginning as wind slabs and then stepping down to the weak base. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-70cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
We have seen a few recent avalanches on the deep persistent problem of basal facets and depth hoar, often beginning as wind slabs and then stepping down to the weak base. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
Cold facetting has weakened of the snowpack and compromised the bridging strength. Potential for triggering these deeper layers could increase as temperatures warm.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
We have seen a few recent avalanches on the deep persistent problem of basal facets and depth hoar, often beginning as wind slabs and then stepping down to the weak base. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
The likely trigger spot would be from a shallow location. This is a complex problem particularly with our spatial variability across the landscape.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
We have seen a few recent avalanches on the deep persistent problem of basal facets and depth hoar, often beginning as wind slabs and then stepping down to the weak base. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
Recent new snow overlies facetted and/or firm surfaces. Overnight SW'ly winds will have built up soft slabs in alpine lee and ridgeline features.
The likely trigger spot would be from a shallow location. This is a complex problem particularly with our spatial variability across the landscape. Large triggers, such as cornice failures, is enough to trigger this deep instability.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
We have seen a few recent avalanches on the deep persistent problem of basal facets and depth hoar, often beginning as wind slabs and then stepping down to the weak base. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
We have seen a few recent avalanches on the deep persistent problem of basal facets and depth hoar, often beginning as wind slabs and then stepping down to the weak base. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
New snow, previous strong wind and warm temperatures are great ingredients for slab avalanches. Storm slabs have been, and will continue to be most reactive on steep, unsupported/cross-loaded terrain features.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche make this extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack bridging this weakness. Caution and good travel habits are always advised.
If the snowpack dose not freeze overnight the hazard will be significantly higher.
As temperatures warm, the basal facets may become a player again, especially in the relatively shallow front ranges. Consider overhead hazard, the consequence of a small avalanche triggering a deeper slab, and stick to deep well supported terrain.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence.
More new snow and warm temperatures will promote slab development and increase the likelihood of triggering today. Storm slabs are most reactive on steep, unsupported and cross-loaded terrain features.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence as this problem is almost impossible to forecast.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack.  Consider this before entering bigger features.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 60+cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer. Conservative terrain choice is your best defence as this problem is almost impossible to forecast.
20cm of new snow in the past 2 days fell with warm temperatures and moderate S winds, promoting the development of reactive slabs. The sun could initiate another natural avalanche cycle today.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Conservative terrain choices are your best defence as this problem is almost impossible to forecast.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60+cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Conservative terrain choices are your best defence as this problem is almost impossible to forecast.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering bigger features.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Conservative terrain choices are your best defence as this problem is almost impossible to forecast.
The late Dec layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-60cm throughout the region and producing variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. There is still high uncertainty as to how reactive this layer is.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Conservative terrain choices are your best defence as this problem is almost impossible to forecast.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering bigger features.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering bigger features.
The late December layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. Be suspicious on steep solar aspects and look for surface hoar.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Be cautious with snowpack depths below 2m by choosing conservative terrain: modest angle and supported shape
The late December layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces variable results depending on location and what crystal form is present. Be suspicious on steep solar aspects and look for surface hoar.
Generally the snowpack in the Little Yoho region is deeper and these layers are not as distinct. There area however areas, such as the ice climbs on Mounts Dennis and Stephen, that will display a shallower snowpack which must be treated with caution.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering bigger features.
The late December layer of surface hoar, facets or sun crust is buried 40-80cm throughout the region and produces typically hard results. Be suspicious on steep solar aspects and look for surface hoar.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Be cautious with shallow snowpack areas and avoid thin spots.
The Dec 31 layer is located 80cm down from surface in the Tak Falls study plot on Monday. Snowpack tests showed no results on this layer. Digging in nearby locations showed similar results. However, surface hoar was located on Mt. Field last Friday.
Generally the snowpack in the Little Yoho region is deeper and these layers are not as distinct. It is still a good idea to be cautious with shallow snowpack areas and avoid thin spots.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering large features.
The Dec 31 layer continues to be a concern. The layer can be found 50 to 80cm down showing varied results in snow pack test. With forecasted snow and wind over the next few days we will likely see an increase in avalanche activity on this layer.
Generally the snowpack in the Little Yoho region is deeper and these layers are not as distinct. It is still a good idea to be cautious with shallow snowpack areas and avoid thin spots.
The Dec 31 layer continues to be a concern. The layer can be found 50 to 80cm down showing varied results in snow pack test. With forecasted snow and wind over the next few days we will likely see an increase in avalanche activity on this layer.
In the past week we have seen several avalanches initiate or step down to this deep persistent layer of facets, depth hoar and crusts. Be cautious with shallow snowpack areas and avoid thin spots.
Storm slabs will be developing through the day depending on location. This listed problem also incorporates previous wind slabs as well as loose dry avalanches in steep terrain, all of which will be increasing in size and likelihood.&nbsp;
This layer of surface hoar, facets and crusts can be found 50 to 80cm down and has been showing varied results in snow pack test. With forecasted snow and wind over the next few days we will likely see an increase in avalanche activity.
With the large load expected over the next 48 hours, it is plausible we will see an increase in very large avalanches either starting or stepping down to the deep basal facets and depth hoar.&nbsp; Avalanches are expected to reach valley bottom.
Storm slabs will be developing through the day depending on location. This listed problem also incorporates previous wind slabs as well as loose dry avalanches in steep terrain, all of which will be increasing in size and likelihood.
This layer of surface hoar, facets and crusts can be found 50 to 80cm down and has been showing varied results in snow pack test. With forecasted snow and wind over the next few days we will likely see an increase in avalanche activity.
Where this layer of basal facets and depth hoar exists in shallower snowpack areas, we expect an increase in natural activity.&nbsp; These will result&nbsp; in very large avalanches which could run to valley bottom.
A strong warm storm is expected to deliver upwards of 80cm of snow in the next 36 hours.
This is a complex problem. The spacial variability and potential consequences of triggering a large avalanche on this layer makes it extremely difficult to gain confidence in the snowpack. Consider this before entering large features.
The snowpack is extremely variable in depth and strength. Rapid loading in expected to cause a widespread natural avalanche cycle late Friday into Saturday.
High freezing levels and a total of 10-30mm of precipitation may cause storm slabs to entrain wet loose avalanches at lower elevations.
Today's main problem is the result of large amounts of snow arriving with strong to extreme winds. We are mid-storm with 30cm down and approximately 60cm to go over the next 2 days. Avalanche hazard will rise sharply this afternoon.
Freezing levels are expected to rise to 1700m today, which means lots of rain for lower elevations. As the storm develops, loose wet avalanches will be possible below treeline.
Storm slabs will be developing through the night. This problem also incorporates wind slabs as well as loose dry avalanches in steep terrain, all of which will be increasing in size and likelihood as the storm tracks through the region.
This layer of surface hoar, facets and crusts was 50 to 80cm down prior to the storm. With forecasted loading from snow, rain, and wind over the next 24 hours, we expect to see an increase in avalanche activity.
With the large load expected over the next 24 hours, we expect very large avalanches either starting or stepping down to the deep basal facets and depth hoar. Avalanches are expected to reach valley bottom and possible to extreme runouts.
60 cm forecast with Extreme winds. We should see widespread avalanche activity at all elevation with large avalanches running full path.
It is very likely that the amount of snow forecasted will overload this weakness and we will see avalanche running to ground on this layer. No one should be entering avalanche terrain at this time!
Storm slabs will be developing through the night. This problem also incorporates wind slabs as well as loose dry avalanches in steep terrain, all of which will be increasing in size and likelihood as the storm tracks through the region.
This layer of surface hoar, facets and crusts was 50 to 80cm&nbsp; was down prior to the storm. With forecasted loading from snow, rain, and wind over the next 24 hours, we expect to see an increase in avalanche activity.
With the large load expected over the next 24 hours, we expect very large avalanches either starting or stepping down to the deep basal facets and depth hoar. Avalanches are expected to reach valley bottom and possible to extreme runouts.
Warm storm slabs are failing naturally from precipitation and wind overload. These slides are running to valley bottom.
Freezing levels are 1900m+ with significant rainfall for lower elevations. Loose wet slides should be expected below treeline.
Up to 40 cm in last 24 hrs with Mod SW winds. We should see widespread avalanche activity at all elevation with large avalanches running full path. 
It is very likely that this new and heavy snow load will overload this weakness and we will see avalanches running to ground on this layer. No one should be entering avalanche terrain at this time!
Storm and wind slabs developed rapidly in the past 24hrs along with fragile cornice growth. Despite the cooling trend, expect these slabs to remain sensitive to failure over the short term with continued natural activity expected.
This layer of surface hoar, facets and crusts is now down 50&nbsp; to 100cm making these slabs ripe for human triggering.
With start zones loaded and the snowpack weakened by rain at lower elevations, avalanches can easily scrub to ground and entrain mass as they move though the track and into the run out zone. Many slides have reached valley bottom in the past 24 hrs.
Storm and wind slabs developed rapidly in the past 24hrs along with fragile cornice growth. Despite the cooling trend, expect these slabs to remain sensitive to failure over the short term with continued natural activity expected.
This layer of surface hoar, facets and crusts is now down 50 to 100cm making these slabs ripe for human triggering.
With start zones loaded and the snowpack weakened by rain at lower elevations, avalanches can easily scrub to ground and entrain mass as they move though the track and into the run out zone. Many slides have reached valley bottom in the past 24 hrs.
Up to 50 cm during the recent storm with Mod SW winds.
Recent 50 cm of new snow has the potential to overload this weakness
Deep releases to ground are less likely, however, start zones will be loaded again with forecasted strong wind. Avoid exposure to start zones until there is less uncertainty.&nbsp;
Deep releases to ground are less likely, however, start zones will be loaded again with forecasted strong wind. Avoid exposure to start zones until there is less uncertainty.
Up to 50 cm during the recent storm with Mod SW winds.
Recent 50 cm of new snow has the potential to overload this weakness
Deep releases on the facets and depth hoar could be less likely but are hard to predict. Dealing with the uncertainty around this layer can be somewhat managed by avoiding large, committing terrain and areas with a thin snowpack.
Deep releases on the facets and depth hoar could be less likely in thicker snowpack areas but are hard to predict. Dealing with the uncertainty can be somewhat managed by avoiding large, committing terrain and areas with a thin snowpack.
Wind loading and cornice development could trigger large avalanches
Incremental loading of new low-density snow and moderate to strong wind has formed storm slabs on immediate lees, and cross-loaded terrain features at all elevations.
We now have enough low-density new snow for a loose dry avalanche problem. Practise your &quot;sluff&quot; management today, and be cognisant of terrain traps below you, or other parties above you.
Wind loading and cornice development could trigger large avalanches running far and fast.
Deep releases on the facets and depth hoar could be less likely but are hard to predict. Dealing with the uncertainty around this layer can be somewhat managed by avoiding large, committing terrain and areas with a thin snowpack.
Deep releases on the facets and depth hoar could be less likely but are hard to predict. Dealing with the uncertainty around this layer can be somewhat managed by avoiding large, committing terrain and areas with a thin snowpack.
Incoming wind and snow will form new slabs at all elevations. Below 2000m, these will sit on a melt freeze crust which could serve as an excellent bed surface and increase reactivity. Take the time to evaluate the bond of new snow to this layer.
Incoming wind and snow will form slabs at all elevations and aspects. Below 2000m, these will sit on a thick crust which could serve as an excellent bed surface and increase reactivity. Take the time to evaluate the bond of new snow to this layer.
In Sheltered areas, loose snow avalanches will have the potential to run far and fast on the crust in steep terrain.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures  could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
New snow will be reactive today, and could run fast and far on slopes where it overlies previous firm surfaces.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
This week's low density snow has not yet consolidated, and could run fast and far on slopes where it overlies previous firm surfaces.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
This week's low density snow has not yet consolidated. This new snow could run fast and far, especially on slopes where it overlies previous firm surfaces.
This week's low density snow has not yet consolidated. This new snow could run fast and far, especially on slopes where it overlies previous firm surfaces.
Depending on incoming snow amounts, loose snow avalanches will have the potential to run far and fast on the crust in steep terrain. If the sun comes out, these will be easier to trigger on solar aspects and will likely occur naturally.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
This week's low density snow has a propensity to sluff far and fast, especially with another 5-10cm today.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
The most recent snowfall came with milder temps, creating a 10-20cm soft slab that seemed reactive on steep, unsupported rolls at all elevations. This new storm slab may hide previous wind slabs in alpine lee and cross-loaded features.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
Snowfall earlier this week was accompanied by milder temps, creating a 10-20cm soft slab that seemed reactive on steep, unsupported rolls at all elevations. This new storm slab may hide previous wind slabs in alpine lee and cross-loaded features.
Shallow snowpack zones and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
30cm of storm snow in the last 24hrs at treeline with mod S-W winds. Expect soft storm slab with more potential for human triggering as you move into wind effected terrain.
30cm of storm snow will lead to loose dry slides in steep to extreme terrain. Avoid gulley features where small slides may form deeper deposits.
Shallow snowpack areas and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
45cm of storm snow in the last 48hrs at treeline with mod S-W winds and up to 10cm forecast today. Expect soft storm slab with more potential for human triggering as you move into wind effected terrain.
Shallow snowpack areas and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
Shallow snowpack areas and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences would be severe!
Shallow snowpack areas, windslabs and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences of triggering will likely be severe!
This problem is more prevalent in shallow snowpack areas. Use caution moving from thick to thin spots as our area has an incredibly variable snowpack depth.
Shallow snowpack areas, windslabs and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences of triggering will likely be severe!
If the sun stays out today, loose dry avalanches may be initiated on steep SE-W aspects and around rocky features.
Shallow snowpack areas, windslabs and/or large triggers such as cornice failures could trigger this deep layer. The consequences of triggering will likely be severe!
Triggering could occur from shallow snowpack areas or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering will likely be severe!
Developing storm slab over the freshly buried Feb 22 Surface hoar. In wind effected surface snow this layer will be more sensitive and prone to propagate. Human triggering of the fresh storm slab is likely.
Triggering could occur from shallow snowpack areas or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering will likely be severe!
Developing storm slab over the freshly buried Feb 22 surface hoar/ sun crust.&nbsp; Although the new slab is very soft, human triggering of the fresh storm slab is likely on steep features and in wind affected areas.
Triggering could occur from shallow snowpack areas or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering would be severe!
The storm slab is increasing in cohesiveness and thickness on top of the Feb 22 surface hoar/ sun crust. Human triggering of the fresh storm slab is likely on steep features and in wind affected areas.
Low density storm snow has a propensity to be triggered by short, intense solar inputs. Sunny breaks today could be just that trigger.&nbsp;
15-25cm of new snow paired with increasing&nbsp; SW-NW winds and through the forecast period will create reactive slabs in the alpine and treeline, especially in lee areas.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpacks or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering would be severe!
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering would be severe!
Feb 22 surface hoar is a persistent weak layer down 30-40cm and overlies a thick crust on solar aspects. This layer is easily triggered where soft slabs have formed. Ongoing precipitation, wind and rising temperatures will increase slab properties.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large loads such a cornice failure. The consequences of triggering would be severe!
Feb 22 surface hoar is a persistent weak layer down 30-40cm that overlies a thick crust on solar aspects. It is easily triggered where soft slabs have formed, especially around tree line where the surface hoar is preserved and large.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe!&nbsp; Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in Run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
Warming temperatures on Friday and Saturday may make it possible to trigger weakness near the base of the snowpack in shallow areas.
Feb 22 surface hoar is a persistent weak layer down 50-60cm that overlies a thick crust on solar aspects. Use extra caution on slopes that have not seen any activity since this layer was buried
20cm overnight on the 27th has formed fresh storm slab. More snow and warm temperatures today will promote slab formation and sensitivity to triggering
Up to 20cm of new snow forecasted for region Friday night. Keep an eye on how reactive this snow is when traveling through terrain. Triggering storm slab in shallow areas has the potential to initiate the deep persistent slab.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe! Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
30cm+ in the last 48hrs has formed fresh storm slab. The storm slab, where triggered, will likely overload the Feb 22nd surface hoar layer. This layer is susceptible to human triggering.
Feb 22 surface hoar is a persistent weak layer down 50-60cm that overlies a thick crust on solar aspects. This layer has been very active over the last 24hrs. This layer is susceptible to human triggering.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe! Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
Surface hoar buried on February 22nd is now a persistent weak layer down 60+cm.&nbsp; The surface hoar overlies a thick crust on solar aspects. This layer was active yesterday and remains susceptible to human triggering.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe! Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
Surface hoar buried on February 22nd is now a persistent weak layer down 60+cm. The surface hoar overlies a thick crust on solar aspects. This layer was active yesterday and remains susceptible to human triggering.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe! Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
Strong- Extreme winds have built windslabs in open terrain features on all aspects in the Alpine and exposed areas of TL and BTL. If triggered these wind slabs could step down to the Feb 22nd surface hoar layer.
The Feb 22nd SH is now buried 60+cm deep, which is a likely depth for skier triggering, especially in shallower snow pack areas. Steep solar aspects harbor a crust under the surface hoar layer, which can increase the sensitivity of triggering.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe! Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
Strong- Extreme winds have built windslabs in open terrain features on all aspects in the Alpine and exposed areas of TL and BTL. If triggered these wind slabs have the potential to step down to the Feb 22nd surface hoar layer.
The Feb 22nd SH is now buried 60+cm deep, which is a likely depth for skier triggering, especially in shallower snow pack areas. Steep solar aspects harbor a crust under the surface hoar layer, which can increase the sensitivity of triggering.
Expect to find slab formation on lee aspects and open areas from the alpine to below tree line. Loose dry sluffing from steep terrain is also a concern, especially in gulleys, terrain traps and above cliffs.
New snow will need some time to settle and stabilize.
Skier triggering could occur in shallow snowpack areas or from large load. The consequences of triggering would be severe! Caution traveling, skiing and climbing in run out zones as avalanche have the potential to run full path
Expect to find slab formation on lee aspects and open areas from the alpine to below tree line. Loose dry sluffing from steep terrain is also a concern, especially in gulleys, terrain traps and above cliffs.
Up to 35 mm of precipitation is expected  Friday pm into Saturday. This could translate to between 20 and 50cm of snow in Waterton park. Avoid avalanche terrain during periods of heavy loading and give new snow time to settle.
Windslabs in open terrain features on all aspects in the Alpine and exposed areas of TL and BTL. If triggered these wind slabs have the potential to step down to the Feb 22nd surface hoar layer.
The Feb 22nd SH is now buried 60+cm deep, which is a likely depth for skier triggering, especially in shallower snow pack areas. Steep solar aspects harbor a crust under the surface hoar layer, which can increase the sensitivity of triggering.
Expect to find wind &amp; storm slab formation on lee aspects and open areas from the alpine to below tree line. Loose dry sluffing from steep terrain is also a concern, especially in gulleys, terrain traps and above cliffs with ongoing wind &amp; snowfall.
Expect to find wind and storm slab formation on lee aspects and open areas from the alpine to below tree line. Loose dry sluffing from steep terrain is also a concern, especially in gulleys, terrain traps &amp; above cliffs with ongoing snowfall &amp; wind.
20-30cm of new snow is predicted Thursday night into Friday creating a storm slab condition. The rapid loading will likely increase natural activity.
The incoming new snow will need some time to settle and stabilize.
Recent wind has formed windslabs in open terrain features on all aspects in the Alpine and exposed areas of TL and BTL. If triggered these wind slabs have the potential to step down to the Feb 22nd surface hoar layer.
The Feb 22nd SH is now buried 60cm+ deep, which is a likely depth for skier triggering, especially in shallower snow pack areas. Steep solar aspects harbor a crust under the surface hoar layer, which can increase the sensitivity of triggering.
Expect to find wind &amp; storm slab formation on lee aspects and open areas from the alpine to below tree line. Loose dry sluffing from steep terrain is also a concern, especially in gulleys, terrain traps and above cliffs with ongoing wind &amp; snowfall.
Expect to find wind and storm slab formation on lee aspects and open areas from the alpine to below tree line. Loose dry sluffing from steep terrain is also a concern, especially in gulleys, terrain traps &amp; above cliffs with ongoing snowfall &amp; wind.
Up to 35cm has fallen in this last storm. It appears to be bonding well.
Storm snow is hiding recently formed windslabs. Expect underlying windslab in open terrain features on all aspects in the Alpine and exposed areas of TL and BTL. If triggered these wind slabs have the potential to step down to the Feb 22nd SH layer.
The Feb 22 Surface Hoar layer is down 100cm+/- at treeline in the W end of the park and 50-80cm in the E. It is a likely depth for skier triggering, especially in shallower snow pack areas. Steep solar aspects harbor a crust under the SH layer.
Sluffs will fail easily with skier traffic in steep terrain and are failing naturally in very steep terrain. Use caution in gully features or in cliffy terrain where these can have serious consequences.
Little recent activity on this layer. More likely to initiate this layer in combination with accidently triggering a surface instability. 
&nbsp; Sluffs will fail easily with skier traffic in steep terrain and are failing naturally in very steep terrain. Use caution in gully features or in cliffy terrain where these can have serious consequences.
Loose dry avalanches will be prevalent out of steep rocky terrain, especially on solar aspects when the sun comes out. Ice climbers should pay particular attention to the consequence of a small avalanche coming from above.
Little recent activity on this layer. More likely to initiate this layer in combination with accidently triggering a surface instability.
Use caution when entering steep terrain. Soft new storm slabs are forming, and buried wind slabs are present in lee areas. In steep solar terrain these are sitting on buried sun crusts. Cornice exposure should also be minimized due to recent growth.
The Feb 22 Surface Hoar/ sun crust layer is down ~100cm at TL in the W end of the park &amp; 50-80cm in the east. It's a likely depth for skier triggering in shallower snowpack areas. This problem is decreasing in probability but remains high consequence
The Feb 22 Surface Hoar/ sun crust layer is down ~90cm at TL in the W end of the park &amp; 50-80cm in the east. It's a likely depth for skier triggering in shallower snowpack areas. This problem is decreasing in probability but remains high consequence
Little recent activity on this layer, more likely to initiate it from large loads such as cornice fall or from shallow snowpack areas.
The February 22 Surface Hoar/ sun crust layer is down 70-110cm. Today's forecasted snowfall will add an additional load, bringing this layer closer to its tipping point. It's a likely depth for skier triggering in shallower snowpack areas.
Little recent activity on this layer: initiating this layer is more likely from large loads such as cornice fall or from shallow snowpack areas.
25-30cm of new snow with mod/strong winds has created a widespread storm slab. Lee and cross-loaded features at upper elevations will shed this new layer easily. Unsupported slopes/terrain traps below tree-line should be treated with respect today!
The February 22 Surface Hoar/ sun crust layer is down 90-130cm. It's possibly for skier-triggering in shallower snowpack areas, but otherwise this layer will take a bigger trigger to be activated (ex avalanche in the storm slab).
Ice climbers be cautious in areas where loading has stressed the snowpack. Top outs and ledges may be particularity sensitive due to recent snow and transport winds.
2 Large avalanches observed today on this layer from past 24 hours. Initiating this layer is more likely from large loads such as cornice fall or from shallow snowpack areas.
25-30cm of recent storm snow with mod/strong winds has created a widespread storm slab. Lee and cross-loaded features at upper elevations will shed this new layer easily. Unsupported slopes/terrain traps below tree-line should be avoided.
The February 22 Surface Hoar/ sun crust layer is down 90-130cm. It's possibly for skier-triggering in shallower snowpack areas, but otherwise this layer will take a bigger trigger to be activated.
There is significant loose snow clinging to rock faces and in steep alpine features. Forecasted new snow will add to this.Triggering of this snow includes wind and solar radiation. Once off and running the debris may trigger deeper instabilities.
2 Large avalanches were observed on March 11th. Initiating this layer is more likely from large loads such as cornice fall or from shallow snowpack areas. In the valley bottom the snowpack is less consolidated with less chance of large releases.
Lots of snow, lots of wind, a widespread natural avalanche cycle is expected.
Where there is no slab, expect sluffing in steep terrain.
30cm of recent snow with mod/strong winds has created a widespread storm slab. Unsupported slopes and terrain traps should be avoided. Lee and cross-loaded features will be more reactive due to the wind further promoting slab formation in these areas
The February 22 surface hoar/sun crust layer is down 90-130cm. Skier-triggering is possible in shallower areas but otherwise this layer will take a bigger trigger to be activated such as a storm slab stepping down or large load impacting the slope.
There is significant loose snow clinging to rock faces and in steep alpine features. Triggering of this snow includes human, wind and solar radiation.
2 Large avalanches were observed on March 11th. Initiating this layer is more likely from large loads such as cornice fall or from shallow snowpack areas. In the valley bottom the snowpack is less consolidated with less chance of large releases.
Strong N-NE winds are building fresh windslabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">
The February 22 surface hoar/sun crust layer is down 90-130cm. Skier-triggering is possible in shallower areas but otherwise this layer will take a big trigger to be activated such as a small avalanche stepping down or large load impacting the slope.
New wind slabs forming with Strong NE winds past 36 hrs. This, in combination with basal facet issue, are producing random large destructive avalanches. 
Several natural large avalanches observed today due to the combination of rapid wind loading initiating basal facets or reloaded bed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Mnt Athabasca ramp route ran size 3.5 today.  Impressive avalanche running into the rock basin below.
With temperatures rising rapidly this afternoon, loose snow may become reactive on steep solar aspects.
The February 22 surface hoar/sun crust layer is down 90-130cm. Skier-triggering is possible in shallower areas but otherwise this layer will take a big trigger to be activated such as a small avalanche stepping down or large load impacting the slope.
Several natural large avalanches observed yesterday due to the combination of rapid wind loading initiating basal facets or reloaded bed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Mnt Athabasca ramp route ran size 3.5. Impressive avalanche running into the rock basin below.
With temperatures rising rapidly today, the snow on solar slopes that is crusty in the morning may loose cohesion and become reactive in the afternoon.
The February 22 surface hoar/sun crust layer is down 90-130cm. Skier-triggering is possible in shallower areas but otherwise this layer will take a big trigger to be activated such as a small avalanche stepping down or large load impacting the slope.
A warming snow pack and solar input is weakening the surface snow and starting to move naturally. Keep in mind what is overhead and the intensity of the sun during your trips
Several natural large avalanches observed yesterday due to the combination of rapid wind loading initiating basal facets or reloaded bed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Mt Athabasca ramp route ran size 3.5. Impressive avalanche running into the rock basin below.
This problem is specific to Tuesday.
The snow on solar slopes that was crusty in the morning, will loose cohesion as temperatures rise and become reactive in the afternoon.
This layer has become mostly dormant, but skier triggering may still be possible in shallower snowpack areas.
The snow on slopes facing the sun will become moist this afternoon.  Use caution on steep terrain and around terrain traps.
This layer has become mostly dormant, but skier triggering may still be possible in shallower snowpack areas.
This problem exists with day time warming and especially on solar aspects.
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots or rapid day time warming.
The snow on slopes facing the sun will become moist this afternoon. Use caution on steep terrain and around terrain traps.
This layer has become mostly dormant, but skier triggering may still be possible in shallower snowpack areas.
This problem will increase with day time warming and solar input, Travel early when the snowpack is frozen on solar aspects, and avoid during the heat of the day.
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots or rapid day time warming.
Strong spring sun paired with rising freezing levels will produce loose avalanches. Start the day early and be mindful of what is above you.
Moist snow has the potential to release due to the heat of the sun, entraining slopes below
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots or rapid day time warming.
Moist snow has the potential to release due to the heat of the sun, entraining slopes below
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots, increased loading or rapid day time warming.
Moist snow has the potential to release due to the heat of the sun, entraining slopes below
Strong possiblity of rain overnight and into the morning at lower elevation areas below 2000m
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots, increased loading or rapid day time warming.
Incoming precipitation and rising freezing levels on Monday may result in rain at lower elevations around Field. If this occurs wet loose avalanches will be a concern on low elevation ice climbs in this area.
Rain at lower elevations may soften the surface crust, resulting in point releases that can gather mass as it rumbles downslope.
Sunny skies on Thursday means loose avalanches on solar aspects. Watch for the obvious signs of moist surface snow and pinwheeling, and avoid overhead hazard, especially where cornices are involved (think Mt. Bertha).
Possibility new snow with varied consistency depending on elevation. Slabs may be limited to TL elevations but depends on condition of old surface, which is quite varied across the region.
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots, increased loading or rapid day time warming.
Possibility new snow with varied consistency depending on elevation. Slabs may be limited to TL elevations but depends on condition of old surface, which is quite varied across the region.
This problem will require a large trigger, thin spots, increased loading or rapid day time warming.
The mid snowpack is consolidating and offers bridging strength over a weak&nbsp; base. Caution is needed in areas where the snowpack is thin.  Collapsing cornices may trigger this weakness unleashing large avalanches.
A High-Pressure system, warm temperatures and high Freezing Levels will invoke a loose dry avalanche problem this week @ Rogers Pass. Loose dry avalanches are possible-likely on steep S-SW aspects with rocky terrain features.
Watch for loose wet avalanches on all steep solar aspects.
A strong inversion today will provoke a loose dry avalanche cycle @ Rogers Pass, and potentially loose wet avalanches also. These will be most likely on steep S-SW aspects with rocky terrain features, but keep your guard up on other aspects too.
Warm temperatures and sun may continue to produce loose activity. This will be most likely on steep S-SW aspects with rocky terrain features although the temperature inversion is heating up non solar aspects as well
These won't be found until we get the main brunt of the storm. If the storm arrives earlier today and with more snow, this will bump the danger rating up a level. If it starts dumping with significant winds, reduce your exposure to overhead hazard.
This all depends on how much snow comes. Models show a maximum of 65 (unlikely) to 30 or less (expected). Strong winds are certain, so Tuesday is a day to spend in the forest and see how the new snow sticks to the Dec 8 layer just being buried.
The warm, heavy new snow has created a cohesive 25-40cm storm slab. It sits on widespread surface hoar (SH) or on a crust on steep solar aspects. Locations of large SH will be particularly touchy (below tree-line).
There is a lot going on with this new snow, so be conservative and observe how it effects the snowpack. We have wind slab up high, storm slabs at and below treeline and lots of loose snow avalanches in cliffs and steep chutes. All on a PWL.
Recent HST is being distributed and forming wind slabs in the ALP and open TL.
There is a lot going on with this new snow, so be conservative and observe how it effects the snowpack. We have wind slab up high, storm slabs at and below treeline and lots of loose snow avalanches in cliffs and steep chutes. All on a PWL.
A 30-40cm cohesive storm slab has formed. It sits on widespread surface hoar (SH) or on a crust on steep solar aspects. Locations of large SH will be particularly touchy (below tree-line).
The new snow came in with little wind and has been less reactive than expected so far. The forecasted cold temperatures and no wind should help to facet out any slabs that may be lingering over the next few days.
We have limited observations from Little Yoho so far, but suspect this layer to be more of a concern here. The surface hoar was more widespread here and there is more storm snow overlying it.
A 30cm+/- storm slab has formed. It sits on widespread modified rain crust surface hoar (SH) combo. Field tests gave mod to hard results on this layer in the west end of the park.
In general there is more storm snow overlying the Dec 7 layer of surface hoar, facets, and sun crust depending on aspect and elevation. In particular, there was large surface hoar noted prior to the last storm.
Loose surface snow will slide easily on the newly formed December 9 crust, especially on steep smooth slopes (think fans below cliffs, alpine bowls, steep gully features like Akamina Lake Chutes). Many of these have already released naturally.
The Dec 7 persistent weak layer of surface hoar and crusts is down between 20 and 35cm. This is still reactive in tests and 2 natural size 2 avalanches were observed yesterday
A lack of observation exists for this layer. Prior to the recent storm, large surface hoar was found up to tree line and sun crust was found on steep solar aspects into the alpine. Use Caution as 20-40cm of snow sits on this layer.
A 30cm+/- slab has sits on the Dec. 7th weak interface of  modified rain crust/sun crust/surface hoar (SH) combo. Field tests have given mod to hard results on this layer, but it has been the failure plane for recent slab avalanches.
Facetted surface snow will slide easily on the newly formed December 9 crust, especially on sheltered steep smooth slopes. This will become less of a problem by tuesday as winds increase.
A 30cm slab sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/sun crust/surface hoar combo. Recent slab avalanches have failed on this layer. This layer could be more reactive in isolated terrain features that experienced more wind
Yesterday, dry loose avalanches were observed from steep alpine features. In these high consequence locations even a small avalanche could be deadly.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. Weak facets layers near the ground continue to become weaker with these cold temperatures.
A 30cm slab sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/sun crust/surface hoar combo. Recent slab avalanches have failed on this layer. This layer could be more reactive in isolated terrain features that experienced more wind
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. Weak facets layers near the ground continue to become weaker with these cold temperatures.
40cm sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/sun crust/surface hoar combo. Our developing storm slab will test this layer in the coming days.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations.
A136FBD0">Another 22cm of new snow brings our storm total to ~40cm in the last 48 hours at Treeline. Strong winds from the Sth and mild temperatures have formed storm slabs at all elevations. Storm slabs are failing on the Dec 13th Surface Hoar Layer.
Sluffing continues to be a concern with significant amounts of new snow over the last 24 hours. Loose dry avalanches will have enough mass to push riders around in steep terrain. Extra care is required around cliffs and confined gullies.
60cm sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/sun crust/surface hoar combo. Our new storm slab could easily step down to this interface, significantly increasing the size and destructive potential.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations.
Up to 40 cm of low density and facetted surface snow is sluffing easily out of steep terrain wherever it is touched by wind. These avalanches are relatively small but running far and picking up mass as they go.
Storm snow totals are eclipsing 50cm in the last 72 hours at Treeline. Mod S-SW winds and mild temperatures have formed storm slabs at all elevations. Storm slabs are failing on the Dec 13th Surface Hoar Layer.
Sluffing continues to be a concern with significant amounts of new snow over the last 48 hours. Loose dry avalanches will have enough mass to push riders around in steep terrain. Extra care is required around cliffs and confined gullies.
70cm sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/sun crust/surface hoar combo. Our new storm slab could easily step down to this interface, significantly increasing the size and destructive potential.
Storm slabs will become our primary concern by mid day Saturday as the new snow will stress and hide underlying wind slab. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended on Sunday or Monday if the weekend storm materializes as forecast.&nbsp;
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The new windslabs forming have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
Storm slabs continue to build over the Dec 13 surface hoar layer. This layer, down 40cm+, was very sensitive to human and natural triggering yesterday. This layer is reactive at all three elevation bands.
70cm+ sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/ surface hoar. If triggered the storm slab has potential to step down to this interface triggering large avalanches.
New snow may create soft slabs and be reactive on the Dec 14th layer
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The new windslabs forming have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
The slab continues to build over the Dec 13 surface hoar/facet layer, now down 60+ cm. This layer has been sensitive to human and natural triggering and is reactive at all three elevation bands.
Last nights heavy snowfall, strong SW winds and warm temps were the perfect recipe for building fresh reactive storm slabs.
70cm+ sits on the Dec 7th weak interface of rain crust/ surface hoar. If triggered the storm slab has potential to step down to this interface triggering large avalanches.
Chances of avalanches will increase if snowfall amounts exceed forecast.
New snow may be reactive on the Dec 14th layer
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The new windslabs forming have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
Last nights heavy snowfall, strong S-SW winds and warm temps are the perfect recipe for building fresh reactive storm slabs.
1m+ sits on persistent layers of rain crust/ surface hoar/ or suncrust. Triggered storm slabs have the potential to step down to these interfaces, triggering very large avalanches.
New snow may be reactive on the Dec 14th layer and in steep terrain
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The new windslabs forming have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
Continuing snowfall, mod/strong W'ly winds, and mild temps have created widespread, reactive storm slabs easily triggered by a person.
1m+ sits on persistent layers of rain crust/ surface hoar/ or suncrust. Storm slabs have the potential to step down to these interfaces, triggering very large avalanches.
New snow may be reactive on the Dec 14th layer and in steep terrain
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The new wind slabs forming have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
The new load will likely awaken the Dec. 7th surface hoar/facet/sun crust layer which is down 30 -70 cm in this area and is fairly widespread. Reign in your terrain choices!
15-20 cm is expected overnight Monday. We expect this to slide easily until it has had time to settle. These storm slabs could potentially trigger the persistent slab problem.
With the incoming snow, loose dry avalanches will run in gully features and steep terrain.
15-40 cm is expected overnight Monday. We expect this to slide easily until it has had time to settle. These storm slabs could potentially trigger the deep persistent or persistent slab problem.
The new load will likely awaken either the Nov. 5th facet/crust layer at the bottom of the snowpack or the Dec. 7th surface hoar/facet/sun crust layer ~50cm down. Stay out of avalanche terrain!
With the incoming snow, loose dry avalanches will run in gully features and steep terrain.
Approx 140cm of storm snow from the last 6 days, accompanied by strong S/SW winds and mild temps, has created widespread storm slabs at the surface. N'ly winds overnight and today will create slabs on S'ly aspects, so watch for reverse loading.
~150cm sits on persistent layers of rain crust/ surface hoar/ or suncrust. Storm slabs have the potential to step down to these interfaces, triggering very large avalanches.
Numerous dry loose avalanches up to size 2 out of steep alpine terrain noted today on Mt.Wilson, Heads up climbers, There is a lot of overhead above you at the moment.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
Upslope snow dumped 30+cm in the East, and less North and West(10cm).This problem encompasses avalanches within this past weeks storm snow (~40-60cm), and ones sliding on the Dec 7 or 13th layers.These slabs seemed most reactive at treeline. Tuesday.
We have had a few observations of avalanches stepping down to the Nov. 5 crust and facets. This is a problem with higher uncertainty, and is most prevalent in shallow snowpack areas where the layer has weakened over time.
This will be more of a problem in upslope regions as it received the most snow in the last 24 hours. Increased alpine winds will keep this problem active in the short term.
Storm slabs are the primary problem Wednesday. Storm slabs may be more reactive on northerly aspects where wind has stiffened slabs. We expect this problem to transition to wind slab by the end of the week.
Avalanches were observed on Tuesday that likely initiated on the Dec. 7th and 13th surface hoar/facet/sun crust layers. These are located approximately 60-90cm down in the snowpack.
Storm slabs 20-30cm thick were observed on Tuesday. These will likely settle out fairly soon but if triggered can step down to deeper persistent layers.
~110cm of storm snow fell in the last week with mild temperatures and strong S/SW winds. Post storm strong Northerly winds reverse loaded southerly aspects too, so expect slab formation on all aspects especially in the alpine and exposed areas of TL.
The December 7th surface hoar/crust paired with the December 13th surface hoar has made an excellent weak layer for LARGE slab avalanches. Storm or wind slabs have lots of potential to step down to this layer.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm depending on the area. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. Their reactivity is a bit sporadic but treeline seems to be the biggest culprit.
We have had a few observations of avalanches stepping down to the Nov. 5 crust and facets. This is a problem with higher uncertainty, and is most prevalent in shallow snowpack areas where the layer has weakened over time.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm depending on the area. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. Their reactivity is a bit sporadic but treeline seems to be the biggest culprit.
Numerous dry loose avalanches up to size 2 out of steep alpine terrain noted yesterday on Mt.Wilson, Heads up climbers, There is a lot of overhead above you at the moment.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
120cm of storm snow fell in the last week with mild temperatures and strong S/SW winds. Post storm strong Northerly winds reverse loaded southerly aspects too, so expect slab formation on all aspects especially in the alpine and exposed areas of TL.
The December 7th surface hoar/crust paired with the December 13th surface hoar has made an excellent weak layer for LARGE slab avalanches. Storm or wind slabs have lots of potential to step down to this layer.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm depending on the area. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. Their reactivity is a bit sporadic but treeline seems to be the biggest culprit.
We have had a few observations of avalanches stepping down to the Nov. 5 crust and facets. This is a problem with higher uncertainty, and is most prevalent in shallow snowpack areas where the layer has weakened over time.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm depending on the area. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. Their reactivity is a bit sporadic but treeline seems to be the biggest culprit.
Heads up climbers, There is a lot of overhead hazard above you at the moment.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
The Dec 7th surface hoar/crust and Dec13th surface hoar layer continue to produce sporadic large slab avalanches. Wind slabs have lots of potential to step down to this layer.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm depending on the area. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. Their reactivity is a bit sporadic but seems more reactive at tree line.
We have had a few observations of avalanches stepping down to the Nov. 5 crust and facets. This is a problem with higher uncertainty, and is most prevalent in shallow snowpack areas where the layer has weakened over time.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm depending on the area. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. Their reactivity is a bit sporadic but treeline seems to be the biggest culprit.
The Dec 7th surface hoar/crust and Dec 13th surface hoar layers have produced very large avalanches this past week, up to size 4! Wind slabs have the potential to step down to this layer.
Facetted surface snow can quickly gain significant mass particularly in steep alpine gullies.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. These layers deserve constant&nbsp; suspicion: they can change quickly from one aspect or elevation to another.
We have had a few observations of avalanches stepping down to the Nov. 5 crust and facets. This is a problem with higher uncertainty, and is most prevalent in shallow snowpack areas where the layer has weakened over time.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. These layers deserve constant suspicion: they can change quickly from one aspect or elevation to another.
Slough management is necessary on steeper, open slopes. Initiated loose dry slides are gathering enough mass to push a skier or rider over, or even bury one in a terrain trap. Manage your group carefully to enjoy the new snow!
The Dec 7th surface hoar/crust and Dec 13th surface hoar layers have produced very large avalanches this past week, up to size 4! Although low in probability, the consequences are very high.
Dec. Surface hoar to 6mm can be found in sheltered locations up to 2000m and is reactive to skier traffic.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs or persistent slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
Slough management is necessary on steeper, open slopes. Initiated loose dry slides are gathering enough mass to push a skier or rider over, or even bury one in a terrain trap. Manage your group carefully to enjoy the new snow!
The Dec 7th and Dec 13t layers produced very large avalanches last week, up to size 4! One of these very large avalanches, from a South aspect at Treeline, had the Dec 7th interface as the failure plane which consisted of a crust with facets above.
In the alpine hard slabs sit overtop of facets. Dec 14th surface hoar to 6mm can be found in sheltered locations up to 2000m and is reactive to skier traffic.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The wind slabs or persistent slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
There are a variety of weaker layers down 50-80cm at tree line, the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. These layers deserve constant suspicion as they can change quickly from one aspect to another.
There are a variety of weaker layers down ~50-80cm. These are the Dec 7 and 13th layers of facets, suncrust, and isolated surface hoar. These layers deserve constant suspicion, they can change quickly from one aspect to another.
Slough management is necessary on steeper, open slopes. Loose dry slides are gathering enough mass to push a skier or rider over, or even bury one in a terrain trap.
The Dec 7th and Dec 13t layers produced very large avalanches last week, up to size 4! One of these very large avalanches, from a South aspect at Treeline, had the Dec 7th interface as the failure plane which consisted of a crust with facets above.
In the alpine hard slabs sit overtop of facets. Dec 14th surface hoar to 6mm can be found in sheltered locations up to 2200m.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The persistent slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
This problem is confusing. It appears to be stabilizing according to all reports but the layers remain visible in snow profiles, thus continue to deserve respect. Overall the problem is unreactive but our confidence is low, improving by the day.
This problem is confusing. It appears to be stabilizing according to all reports but the layers remain visible in snow profiles, thus continue to deserve respect. Overall the problem is unreactive but our confidence is low, improving by the day.
Approximately 25cm of new snow has fallen over the last few days, burying another surface hoar layer in specific locations. The new snow will morph into a storm slab with the added load of new snow and warm temperatures in the coming days.
The Dec 7th and Dec 13t layers produced very large avalanches last week, up to size 4! One of these very large avalanches, from a South aspect at Treeline, had the Dec 7th interface as the failure plane which consisted of a crust with facets above.
In the alpine hard slabs sit overtop of facets. Dec 14th surface hoar to 6mm can be found in sheltered locations up to 2200m.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The persistent slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
The incoming new snow and high winds will form new slabs in most areas beginning on Saturday, and we expect to see a natural avalanche cycle. This will be a good time to avoid all avalanche terrain.
In the alpine hard slabs sit overtop of facets. Dec 14th surface hoar to 6mm can be found in sheltered locations up to 2200m.
Be cautious of thick to thin snowpack areas being likely trigger locations. The persistent slabs have the potential to step down to the weakness at the base of the snowpack.
Storm snow is building up with more due today and tonight, watch for slab development especially in lee areas and use caution where the Dec 26 surface hoar may be preserved
In the alpine hard slabs sit overtop of facets. Dec 14th surface hoar to 6mm can be found in sheltered locations up to 2200m.
The accumulating snow has the potential to form storm slabs at all elevations, potentially overloading deeper layers in the snowpack. The strong SW winds will build wind slabs in the alpine and in open areas at tree line.
This problem will progress as the snow continues to fall and will be an issue in steep, confined terrain features in the alpine and down below tree line.
The accumulating snow has the potential to form storm slabs at all elevations, potentially overloading deeper layers in the snowpack. The strong SW winds will build wind slabs in the alpine and in open areas at tree line.
This problem will progress as the snow continues to fall and will be an issue in steep, confined terrain features in the alpine and down below tree line.
50cm storm slabs have formed since yesterday morning and are reported as touchy, pulling out even at low elevations yesterday afternoon. The Dec 26 surface hoar is most likely to be preserved below this slab in forest glades at treeline and below
The additional snow load due today may be enough to trigger the early december weak layers which are now buried over 1m deep. Field tests yesterday still showed the deeper layer still has the potential for skier triggering even at its current depth.
New snow and warm temperatures could create soft slabs that might be reactive&nbsp;
The forecasted snow and winds has the potential to form storm slabs at all elevation which will be sitting on a variety of surfaces. We don't believe this new load will significantly wake up the deeper weak layers, but there is some uncertainty.
This problem will progress as the snow continues to fall and will be an issue in steep, confined terrain features at all elevations.
The forecasted snow and winds has the potential to form storm slabs at all elevation which will be sitting on a variety of surfaces. We don't believe this new load will significantly wake up the deeper weak layers, but there is some uncertainty.
This problem will progress as the snow continues to fall and will be an issue in steep, confined terrain features at all elevations.
Heavy snowfall yesterday, accompanied by strong-extreme SW wind, has built thick storm slabs in all open terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A Dec 26 surface hoar may persist below this slab in forest glades at treeline and below.
The additional snow load may be enough to trigger the early december weak layers which are now buried over 1m deep. Field tests last week continued to show these deeper layers still have the potential for skier triggering even at their current depth.
With continued strong winds moving the recent snow around, we expect sluffing and dry loose avalanches in steep gullies and faces. This is especially a concern in ice climbing terrain with higher elevation start zones and narrow couloirs.
With continued strong winds moving the recent snow around, we expect sluffing and dry loose avalanches in steep gullies and faces. This is especially a concern in ice climbing terrain with higher elevation start zones and narrow couloirs.
During avalanche control today on highway 93N, Several avalanches stepped down to basal weakness. This is the first time we have seen the basal weakness fail this season. Caution!
Steep rocky faces, slopes above gully's all hold enough snow to sluff off and bury you deeply if caught in a terrain trap. Caution in these area's
Heavy snowfall over the weekend, accompanied by strong-extreme SW wind, has built thick storm slabs in all open terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A Dec 26 surface hoar layer may persist below this slab in sheltered areas at treeline and below.
Avalanche activity this weekend shows that large triggers (such as cornices and storm slabs) could still cause very large avalanches on these layers.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried weak layers could be triggered.
Steep rocky faces and slopes above gulleys hold enough snow to sluff off and bury you deeply if caught in a terrain trap.
The extreme SW wind that accompanied last weekend storm has created loaded pockets low in alpine start zones.
Heavy snowfall over the weekend, accompanied by strong-extreme SW wind, has built thick storm slabs in all open terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A Dec 26 surface hoar layer persists below this slab, 50-70cm deep, in sheltered areas at treeline and below.
Avalanche activity this weekend shows that large triggers (such as cornices and storm slabs) could still cause very large avalanches on these layers.
Plenty of loose snow exists in sheltered locations at and below treeline. Skier triggered sluffs have the potential to collect significant mass and bury a person in a terrain trap. Sluff management is essential today.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried weak layers could be triggered.
Skier triggered avalanches sizes 1-2 on a layer of stellars at the storm snow interface in the Sunshine &amp; Little Yoho areas. Both were in steep features or on convex rolls.  The snow above is now cohesive enough that we are seeing slab propagation.
Skier triggered avalanches sizes 1-2 on a layer of stellars at the storm snow interface in the Sunshine &amp; Little Yoho areas. Both were in steep features or on convex rolls. The snow above is now cohesive enough that we are seeing slab propagation.
90cm of snow in the last 4 days, SW winds, and mild temps have built a widespread storm slab. A Dec 26 surface hoar layer persists below this slab, 70-90cm deep, in sheltered areas at treeline and below.
Avalanche activity this weekend shows that large triggers (such as cornices and storm slabs) could still cause very large avalanches on these layers. These lower layers could wake up with a storm slab overloading them.
Plenty of loose snow exists in sheltered locations at and below treeline. Skier triggered sluffs have the potential to collect significant mass and bury a person in a terrain trap. Sluff management is essential today.
A spotty layer of stellars and surface hoar 20-50 cm down has been reactive in steep terrain. Most likely an issue in steep terrain that was sheltered from previous winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2 weak layers from Dec persist and still produce hard sudden planar results
A spotty layer of stellars and surface hoar 20-50 cm down has been reactive in steep terrain. Most likely an issue in steep terrain that was sheltered from previous winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2 weak layers from Dec persist and still produce hard sudden planar results
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried weak layers could be triggered.
90cm of new snow fell in the last storm, accompanied by SW winds, and mild temps. These conditions built storm slabs in the alpine and exposed areas of TL. A Dec 26 surface hoar layer persists below this slab, in sheltered areas @ treeline and below.
Avalanche activity this weekend shows that large triggers (such as cornices and storm slabs) could still cause very large avalanches on these layers. These lower layers could wake up with a storm slab overloading them.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-60cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar.
When the snowpack is thick, this weakness should be well bridged and less susceptible to triggering.&nbsp; Triggering this deep layer would be low probability but high consequence.
A spotty layer of stellars and surface hoar 25-50 cm down has been reactive in steep terrain. Most likely an issue in steep terrain that was sheltered from previous winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2 weak layers from Dec persist and still produce hard sudden planar results
The recent snow was failing naturally Thursday on solar terrain. This may persist Friday and may be influenced by a temperature inversion. This would be serious for skiers and climbers in confined features or terrain with associated terrain traps.
A spotty layer of stellars and surface hoar 25-50 cm down has been reactive in steep terrain. Most likely an issue in steep terrain that was sheltered from previous winds. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">2 weak layers from Dec persist and still produce hard sudden planar results
The recent snow was failing naturally Thursday on solar terrain. This may persist Friday and may be influenced by a temperature inversion. This would be serious for skiers and climbers in confined features or terrain with associated terrain traps.
Our latest surface hoar layer (Dec 26th) is now buried ~90cm below the surface. If triggered, these layers have the potential to step down to the early December Persistent Weak Layers.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar.
When the snowpack is thick, this weakness should be well bridged and less susceptible to triggering. Triggering this deep layer would be low probability but high consequence.
A spotty layer of stellars and surface hoar 25-50 cm down is most likely an issue in steep treeline terrain, but is present below treeline and some alpine locations. Two other layers from Dec persist and still produce hard sudden planar results.
The Dec 26th surface hoar is now buried 90cm below the surface, within the triggerable range. This is most likely preserved in sheltered or shady areas at and below treeline
A spotty layer of stellars and surface hoar 25-50 cm down is most likely an issue in steep treeline terrain, but is present below treeline and some alpine locations. Two other layers from Dec persist and still produce hard sudden planar results.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar.
When the snowpack is thick, this weakness should be well bridged and less susceptible to triggering. Triggering this deep layer would be low probability but high consequence.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar.
When the snowpack is thick, this weakness should be well bridged and less susceptible to triggering. Triggering this deep layer would be low probability but high consequence.
Snowfall, wind and warm temps will build storm slabs on Tuesday.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar.
Three persistent weak layers from Dec exist in the top 100 cm of the snowpack. These have been mostly unreactive to skiers, but can produce hard sudden planar results in snow tests and have resulted in a couple skier triggered slabs in the last week.
Three persistent weak layers from Dec exist in the top 100 cm of the snowpack. These have been mostly unreactive to skiers, but can produce hard sudden planar results in snow tests and have resulted in a couple skier triggered slabs in the last week.
Snowfall, wind and warm temps will build storm slabs today and tonight. These will not likely bond well to the underlying surface hoar and/or sun/rain crust.
Wind slab developing on lee aspects in the alpine and open tree line; storm slab building all aspects tree line and below. January 12 interface includes previous hard slab in the alpine and patchy surface hoar sheltered tree line and below tree line.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar especially with the new snow load.
New snow combined with strong winds will form reactive slabs. As the wind switches to northerly on Thursday, we will see reverse loading with wind slabs forming outside of usual lee features.
We expect 20-40 cm with strong SSW wind. The snow will quickly form both storm and wind slabs with the influence of warm temperatures. The storm snow is not expect to bond well to the underlying surface of facets or surface hoar.
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">These layers may become more reactive with the storm. Three persistent weak layers from Dec exist in the top 100 cm of the snowpack. They continued to produced sudden results and had a couple of </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/3084bf48-c654-452e-97cc-0fcdfa60ee49" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">skier triggered</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> avalanches on them in the past week.
Expect loose dry avalanches off steep terrain tomorrow as the new snow will sluff easily and may trigger a slab avalanche on the slopes below.
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">These layers may become more reactive with the storm. Three persistent weak layers from Dec exist in the top 100 cm of the snowpack. They continued to produced sudden results and had a couple of </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/3084bf48-c654-452e-97cc-0fcdfa60ee49" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">skier triggered</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> avalanches on them in the past week.
Expect loose dry avalanches off steep terrain tomorrow as the new snow will sluff easily and may trigger a slab avalanche on the slopes below.
Snowfall, wind and warm temps have formed storm slabs overnight. These heavy slabs are failing on the underlying layers and there is an active avalanche cycle underway.
Warm temps at tree-line and below accompanied the overnight dump. The new snow has a high moisture content and point releases from tree-bombs or failing snow mushrooms may gather significant mass.
Warm temperatures, strong winds and 15-40 cm of new snow over the last 24 hours has created a storm slab that was touchy on Wed. Benign weather over the next few days will promote bonding, but there is a spotty weak layer buried under the new snow
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Three persistent weak layers from Dec exist in the top 100cm of the snowpack. They continued to produced sudden results and had a couple of </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/3084bf48-c654-452e-97cc-0fcdfa60ee49" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">skier triggered</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> avalanches on them in the past week. They are likely more sensitive following Wednesdays storm
Warm temperatures, strong winds and 15-40 cm of new snow over the last 24 hours has created a storm slab that was touchy on Wed. Benign weather over the next few days will promote bonding, but there is a spotty weak layer buried under the new snow
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Three persistent weak layers from Dec exist in the top 100cm of the snowpack. They continued to produced sudden results and had a couple of </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/3084bf48-c654-452e-97cc-0fcdfa60ee49" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">skier triggered</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> avalanches on them in the past week. They are likely more sensitive following Wednesdays storm
Soft slabs on lee aspects in the alpine and open tree line; storm slab building all aspects tree line and below. January 12 interface includes previous hard slab in the alpine and patchy surface hoar sheltered tree line and below tree line.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar especially with the new snow load.
New snow combined with strong winds has formed reactive slabs. As the wind switches to northerly on Thursday, we will see reverse loading with wind slabs forming outside of usual lee features.
Wind, warmth and heavy snowfall have formed widespread storm slab. Human triggering should be front of mind today even with cooler temps.
Four persistent weak layers from exist in the top 120cm of the snowpack. The Jan 11 SH is down 15-40cm and remains sensitive to trigger where it exists. The deeper layers are less reactive but continue to produced sudden results in tests.
Four persistent weak layers from exist in the top 120cm of the snowpack. The Jan 11 SH is down 15-40cm and remains sensitive to trigger where it exists. The deeper layers are less reactive but continue to produced sudden results in tests.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered. The surface hoar layer down 40-70cm seems unreactive and spotty distribution but keep it on your radar especially with the new snow 50cm load.
Recent heavy snowfall accompanied by strong S-W winds have formed widespread storm slab. The Jan 10 surface hoar layer underlies the storm slab in protected locations. We are still gathering info on the distribution of this weak layer.
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered.
Four persistent weak layers now exist in the top 120cm of the snowpack. The January 11 SH is down 15-40cm and is sensitive to triggering where it exists. The deeper layers are less reactive but continue to produced sudden results in tests.
Four persistent weak layers now exist in the top 120cm of the snowpack. The January 11 SH is down 15-40cm and is sensitive to triggering where it exists. The deeper layers are less reactive but continue to produced sudden results in tests.
This layer is capped by a thin crust in many locations making it stubborn to initiate, however it has proven that it can still be triggered in sheltered locations. Avalanches caused by this layer may fracture above you!
Use caution around thin to thick areas where buried deeper weak layers could be triggered.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. These are generally not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. These are generally not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
This layer is capped by a thin crust in many locations making it stubborn to initiate, however it has proven that it can still be triggered in sheltered locations. Avalanches caused by this layer may fracture above you!
10-15cm of new snow overlays a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface facets on northerly aspects. If triggered, these avalanches may run quickly and gather enough mass to push around a skier or rider.
Use caution around thin to thick areas. Keep an eye out for surface hoar in isolated sheltered locations below treeline. A Dec weak layer exists in West facing alpine features and could be reactive to human traffic, wind loading and solar input.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. These are generally not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. These are generally not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
15-20cm of new snow overlays a sun crust on steep solar aspects, and surface facets on northerly aspects. If triggered, these avalanches may run quickly and gather enough mass to push around a skier or rider.
Use caution around thin to thick areas. Keep an eye out for surface hoar in isolated sheltered locations below treeline. A Dec weak layer exists in West facing alpine features and could be reactive to human traffic, wind loading and solar input.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. These are generally not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. These are generally not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Fast sluffing of loose, dry powder can be powerful enough to knock over a person or bury them in a terrain trap. Be aware of your sluff when in steeper, more confined terrain.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. Generally, they are not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. Generally, they are not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Use caution around thin to thick areas. Keep an eye out for surface hoar in isolated sheltered locations below treeline. A Dec weak layer exists in West facing alpine features and could be reactive to human traffic, wind loading and solar input.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. Generally, they are not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Several persistent weak layers are present in the top meter of the snowpack. Generally, they are not reactive to skier traffic but we still get occasional reports of avalanches on one of the layers, usually on steep convex rolls or in thin areas.
Use caution around thin to thick areas. Keep an eye out for surface hoar in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Previous strong southwesterly winds have resulted in wind slab formation in open terrain features at all elevations. Be most wary of where slab has built over shallow areas, on unsupported slopes, and on steeper solar aspects.
Use caution around thin to thick areas. Keep an eye out for surface hoar in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Previous strong southwesterly winds have resulted in wind slab formation in open terrain features at all elevations. Be most wary of where slab has built over shallow areas, on unsupported slopes, and on steeper solar aspects.
Use caution around thin to thick areas. Keep an eye out for surface hoar in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Previous strong to extreme Southwesterly winds have resulted in wind slab formation in open terrain features at all elevations. Be wary of where firm slabs have built over shallow areas, on unsupported slopes, and on steep solar aspects.
Use caution around thin to thick areas as potential trigger locations. Keep an eye out for buried surface hoar lurking in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Use caution around thin to thick areas as potential trigger locations. Keep an eye out for buried surface hoar lurking in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Classic low probability high consequence problem at the moment.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Use caution around thin to thick areas as potential trigger locations. Keep an eye out for buried surface hoar lurking in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Classic low probability high consequence problem at the moment.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Use caution around thin to thick areas as potential trigger locations. Keep an eye out for buried surface hoar lurking in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Low probability, high consequence problem at the moment.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Use caution around thin to thick areas as potential trigger locations. Keep an eye out for buried surface hoar lurking in isolated sheltered locations below treeline.
Low probability, high consequence problem at the moment. Keep an eye out for sporadic weak layers within the snowpack. These layers may be present in a form of buried surface hoar, facet interfaces, or sun crust.
5 to 15+cm of new snow is sitting on a facetted interface and has the potential to sluff easily out of steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in the southern areas that received more snow in the last 24 hrs.
5 to 15+cm of new snow is sitting on a facetted interface and has the potential to sluff easily out of steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in the southern areas that received more snow in the last 24 hrs.
10 to 20 cm of storm snow is sitting on a facetted interface and has the potential to sluff easily in steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in confined gullies and couloirs and the hazard will increase as the winds increase on Saturday.
Low probability, high consequence problem at the moment. Keep an eye out for sporadic weak layers within the snowpack. These layers may be present in a form of buried surface hoar, facet interfaces, or sun crust.
10 to 40 cm of storm snow is sitting on a facetted interface and has the potential to sluff easily in steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in confined gullies and couloirs and the hazard will increase as the winds increase on Saturday.
Reactive storm slabs will develop Sunday and continue to build on Monday with incoming snowfall and wind.
10 to 30 cm of storm snow is sitting on a facetted interface and is sluffing easily in steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in confined gullies and couloirs and the hazard will increase as the winds increase on Saturday.
10 to 30 cm of storm snow is sitting on a facetted interface and is sluffing easily in steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in confined gullies and couloirs and the hazard will increase as the winds increase on Saturday.
Keep an eye out for sporadic weak layers within the snowpack. These layers may be present in a form of buried surface hoar, facet interfaces, thin to fat areas and/or sun crust.
Snowfall, wind and warm temps are a perfect recipe for storm slab development.
Expect loose dry avalanches in steep terrain.&nbsp; Manage your descent accordingly.
Likelihood and size dependent on wind effect and precip amounts
Size and likelihood dependent on precip amounts. Previous surface faceting could make this problem more reactive.
Storm slabs are expected to form as snowfall amounts add up, winds remain strong from the SW and temps gradual rise, aiding in the settlement of the new snow into a slab. This problem will be most prevalent in lee features and on steep convex terrain
15 to 40 cm of storm snow (and more on the way) is sitting on a facetted interface and is sluffing easily in steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in confined gullies, couloirs and steep terrain.
Storm slabs are expected to form as snowfall amounts add up, winds remain strong from the SW and temps gradual rise, aiding in the settlement of the new snow into a slab. This problem will be most prevalent in lee features and on steep convex terrain
15 to 40 cm of storm snow (and more on the way) is sitting on a facetted interface and is sluffing easily in steep terrain. This problem is most pronounced in confined gullies, couloirs and steep terrain.
Snowfall, wind, and warm temps are a perfect recipe for storm slab development. These storm slabs will be touchy where the winds have been stronger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Watch for cracking/whumphing around your skis/board today!
Expect loose dry avalanches in steep terrain. Manage your descent accordingly. The underlying facets will allow for a greater snow mass to accumulate and flow fast and far.
Likelihood and size dependent on wind effect and precip amounts
Size and likelihood dependent on precip amounts. Previous surface faceting could make this problem more reactive.
Storm slabs and soft windslabs are forming as snowfall amounts add up. This problem exists at treeline and above and leeward areas had up to 100 cm slabs on Monday. Avoid avalanche terrain on Tuesday.
Up to 40 cm of storm snow sluffs easily in steep terrain. Ice climbers should avoid all gully climbs on Tuesday and skiers watch your sluff on all steep slopes.
Storm slabs and soft windslabs are forming as snowfall amounts add up. This problem exists at treeline and above and leeward areas had up to 100 cm slabs on Monday. Avoid avalanche terrain on Tuesday.
Up to 40 cm of storm snow sluffs easily in steep terrain. Ice climbers should avoid all gully climbs on Tuesday and skiers watch your sluff on all steep slopes.
Tuesdays storm is forecasted to arrive with high freezing levels.&nbsp; Rain at lower elevations will saturate snowpack making wet loose avalanches a concern especially in gully features where terrain traps may increase consequence.
Tuesdays storm is forecasted to arrive with high freezing levels. Wet loose avalanches will not be a concern once the temperature begins to drop on Wednesday.
40-50cm of storm snow, warm temps, and winds that have finally arrived are building touchy storm slabs on the previous drought layer. Natural avalanches are showing the new storm slab is not bonding well to it.
Expect loose dry avalanches in steep terrain. The underlying facets will allow for a greater snow mass to accumulate and flow fast and far.
An avalanche cycle to size 2.5 occurred on Tuesday primarily in the northern region that received the most recent storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Southern areas got more wind and this problem was acting more like a windslab primarily in alpine and treeline areas
Up to 60 cm of storm snow sluffs easily in steep terrain. Ice climbers should avoid all gully climbs on Wednesday and skiers watch your sluff on all steep slopes.
An avalanche cycle to size 2.5 occurred on Tuesday primarily in northern and western areas that received the most recent storm snow. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Southern areas got more wind and this problem was acting more like a windslab primarily in alpine and treeline areas
Up to 60 cm of storm snow sluffs easily in steep terrain. Ice climbers should avoid all gully climbs on Wednesday and skiers watch your sluff on all steep slopes.
Likelihood and size dependent on wind effect and precip amounts
Size and likelihood dependent on precip amounts. Previous surface faceting could make this problem more reactive.
Approximately 60cm of recent storm snow, accompanied by warm temps, and strong winds built fresh storm slabs. The recent snow buries a previous drought layer(surface hoar, sun crust, and surface facets), which varies on elevation and aspect.
Expect loose dry avalanches in steep terrain. The underlying facets will allow for a greater snow mass to accumulate and flow fast and far.
Soft slabs will continue to develop as the new load settles. The potential exists for avalanches to step down to deeper layers.
Size and likelihood dependent terrain. Previous surface faceting could make this problem more reactive.
Up to 60 cm of storm snow has been sluffing easily in steep terrain. Avoid committing yourself to steep, confined terrain if it has not already sluffed out.
Up to 60 cm of storm snow has been sluffing easily in steep terrain. Avoid committing yourself to steep, confined terrain.
The January 24th layer which is made up of Surface Hoar, Facets and Crusts (depending on elevation and aspect), is buried 60-80cm below the surface. 3 skier accidentals occurred yesterday on this layer; 2 at Rogers Pass and 1 outside of RMR.
Up to 60 cm of storm snow has been sluffing easily in steep terrain. Avoid committing yourself to steep, confined terrain.
Steep and rocky terrain.
Up to 60 cm of storm snow has been sluffing easily in steep terrain. Avoid committing yourself to steep, confined terrain.
Recent low density snow and moderate SW wind continues to build wind slab.
The problem is specific to steep terrain and will be amplified by cold temperatures as snow starts to facet on the weekend.
The January 24th layer is made up of Surface Hoar, Facets and Crusts (depending on elevation and aspect). It is buried 60-80cm below the surface. This layer remains reactive to human triggers.
This problem is primely a concern in the Eastern part of the forecast region where an up slope weather system has deposited heavy snow. Assess the problem carefully before entering confined terrain traps like ice climbing gulleys and steep couloirs.
Up to 60 cm of storm snow has been sluffing in steep terrain. Avoid committing yourself to steep, confined terrain.
10cm of snow on Saturday will bring our storm totals to 20-30cm. In wind affected areas this will be blown into wind slabs on all aspects with a change in wind directions from west to east on Saturday night.
The problem is specific to steep terrain and will be amplified by cold temperatures as snow starts to facet on the weekend.
The Jan 26th layer down 60-80cm is consist of decomposing surface hoar in sheltered areas and a crust on solar aspects. Activity appears to be slowing down on this layer, though it remains reactive to human triggers in isolated areas at Treeline.
There is a lot of new snow hanging around, and in very steep couloirs and climbing gullies sloughing is still possible. We expect this problem to decrease in the short term with the incoming cold spell.
There is a lot of new snow hanging around, and in very steep couloirs and climbing gullies sloughing is still possible. We expect this problem to decrease in the short term with the incoming cold spell.
The Jan 26th layer down 60-80cm is consist of decomposing surface hoar in sheltered areas and a crust on solar aspects. Reactivity appears to be decreasing on this layer, though it remains reactive to human triggers in isolated areas at Treeline.
This problem is stabilizing due to the deep freeze, but with the amounts of loose snow around it is still possible to have a sluff gain mass in a steep gully, or on a steep face of soft powder.
The problem is specific to steep terrain and will become easier to trigger as cold temperatures start to facet the new snow.
This problem is stabilizing due to the deep freeze, but with the amounts of loose snow around it is still possible to have a sluff gain mass in a steep gully, or on a steep face of soft powder.
The Jan 26th layer, down 60-80cm, consists of decomposing surface hoar in sheltered areas and a crust on solar aspects. Reactivity appears to be decreasing on this layer. It is stubborn to human triggers in isolated areas in the alpine and tree-line.
The problem is specific to steep terrain and will become easier to trigger as cold temperatures start to facet the new snow.
The January 24th weak interface may be triggerable on solar aspects, where facets and/or surface hoar is sitting on a suncrust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The bond at this interface may be weakening, with cold temps promoting facetting.
Cold temps are faceting the surface snow, allowing it to flow like sugar down steep slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Be aware of your sluff when skiing steeper terrain.
Surface snow continues to lose cohesion and structure making specific areas susceptible to light triggers like direct solar influence, and excitable riders. Sluff awareness and management will be very important in steep and/or confined lines.
The problem is specific to steep terrain and will become less of an issue as snow continues to settle with warming temperatures sunday.
Surface snow continues to lose cohesion and structure making specific areas susceptible to light triggers like direct solar influence, and excitable riders. Sluff awareness and management will be very important in steep and/or confined lines.
Surface snow continues to lose cohesion and structure making specific areas susceptible to light triggers like direct solar influence, and excitable riders. Sluff awareness and management will be very important in steep and/or confined lines.
Surface snow continues to lose cohesion and structure making specific areas susceptible to light triggers like direct solar influence, and excitable riders. Sluff awareness and management will be very important in steep and/or confined lines.
Isolated, sheltered features that have not been impacted by winds are susceptible to sluffing and loose dry avalanches. Ice climbers be aware of these features.
The likelihood of triggering increases with warming temperatures and solar input. Isolated, sheltered features that have not been impacted by winds are susceptible to sluffing and loose dry avalanches. Ice climbers be aware of these features.
The past week of cold temperatures has weakened the surface snow to where it sluffs easily in steep (40 degree) terrain. This is mostly a problem in narrow confined terrain like gullies or couloirs with a continuous steep incline.
The past week of cold temperatures has weakened the surface snow to where it sluffs easily in steep (40 degree) terrain. This is mostly a problem in narrow confined terrain like gullies or couloirs with a continuous steep incline.
The likelihood of triggering increases with warming temperatures and solar input. Isolated, sheltered features that have not been impacted by winds are susceptible to sluffing and loose dry avalanches. Ice climbers be aware of these features.
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">40cm and counting is being redistributed by moderate SW wind. This lies over the Valentine's Day weak interface of facets and variable wind effect. Check out this </span><a href="https://mountainconditions.ca/reports/wind-slabs-or-persistent-slabs" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">MCR</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> describing the buried windslabs in more detail.
Expect the new snow to be easily triggered in steep terrain.  Loose snow avalanches will gain mass quickly where the new snow sits on previously faceted and unconsolidated snow.
The Jan 24th interface has been found in numerous recent profiles. This layer is most concerning on steep, unsupported terrain features on solar aspects
New snow, intense winds and warm temperatures associated with the storm arriving late Sunday will promote slab development at all elevations as snowfall continues through Tuesday. Expect the new slabs to be touchy over the current faceted surfaces.
New snow, intense winds and warm temperatures associated with the storm arriving midday Sunday will promote slab development at all elevations as snowfall continues through Tuesday. Expect the new slabs to be touchy over the current faceted surfaces.
40cm of storm snow and counting is being redistributed by strong S'ly winds. This lies over the Valentine's Day weak interface of facets, crusts and variable wind effect. Expect slab properties to increase throughout the day as the storm intensifies.
Expect the new snow to be easily triggered in steep terrain below treeline that is sheltered from the wind. Loose snow avalanches will gain mass quickly where the new snow sits on previously faceted and unconsolidated snow.
The Jan 24th interface has been found in numerous recent profiles. This layer may wake-up with increased load from the storm! It is most concerning on steep, unsupported terrain features on solar aspects, where it exists as a sun crust.
Severe SW winds have stripped, and transported snow from many areas in the alpine and treeline.
Wind slabs will be found at all elevations including in the burnt forest, and may propagate farther then expected due to underlying facet layer. This is especially true at and below treeline where the facets are sitting on a hard melt freeze crust.
Expect to find reactive storm slabs in sheltered areas. These could be especially touchy in lower elevation areas where they are sitting on facets above a melt freeze crust.
Loose dry avalanches were running today on Mt. Field and Mt. Dennis in steep terrain. Storm conditions overnight Sunday will accentuate this problem on Monday, especially in gully features.
There is approximately 40cm of storm snow currently at treeline which has not quite yet settled into a slab. However, it is expected that further snow load and warming temperatures will settle the storm snow into a slab overnight Sunday. 
New snow, intense winds and warm temperatures associated with the storm will promote slab development at all elevations as snowfall continues through Tuesday. Expect the new slabs to be touchy over the current faceted surfaces.
New snow and strong to extreme winds continue to produce extensive loose dry avalanche activity throughout the forecast region.
60+cm of storm snow is being redistributed by strong/extreme S'ly winds. This lies over the Valentine's Day weak interface of facets, crusts and variable wind effect. Slab properties have developed and are failing on this layer.
The Jan 24th interface has been found in numerous recent profiles. This layer has awakened with increased load from the storm. It is most concerning on steep, unsupported terrain features on solar aspects, where it exists as a sun crust.
15-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a weak facetted layer in sheltered locations. As the snow settles into a slab, we suspect it will be reactive to human triggering. This problem will be most pronounced in areas with the most recent snow.
New snow and strong to extreme winds continue to produce loose dry avalanche activity throughout the forecast region. Give the recent snow some time to settle before exposing yourself to steep overhead terrain.
30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a weak facetted layer in sheltered locations. As the snow settles into a slab, we suspect it will be reactive to human triggering. This problem will be most pronounced in areas with the most recent snow.
New snow and strong to extreme winds continue to produce loose dry avalanche activity throughout the forecast region. Give the recent snow some time to settle before exposing yourself to steep overhead terrain.
Loose dry, spindrift avalanches remain a problem for ice climbers
80+cm of storm snow is being redistributed by mod/strong S'ly winds. This lies on top of the Valentine's Day weak interface of facets, crusts and variable wind effect. Slab properties have developed and are failing on this layer.
A bonus 25-30cm of cooler snow fell last night. This will readily sluff in steep terrain and could be a real hazard if it pushes you into a terrain trap, resulting in a deep burial.
30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a weak facetted layer in sheltered locations. This has resulted in wind effected slabs in alpine areas and less slab effect in more sheltered areas. Avoid avalanche terrain for another day still.
30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a weak facetted layer in sheltered locations. This has resulted in wind effected slabs in alpine areas and less slab effect in more sheltered areas. Avoid avalanche terrain for another day still.
Loose dry, spindrift avalanches remain a problem for ice climbers
The tail-end of the previous storm finished with 25-30cm of cooler, low density snow. This could power-sluff in steep terrain, and it would be a real hazard if it pushes you into a terrain trap, resulting in a deep burial.
Loose dry in steep terrain remain a hazard for ice climbers. Small sluffs could have big consequences in the wrong terrain.
Strong overnight winds on Wednesday will redistribute the recent storm snow and create widespread windslabs in all open areas, potentially even on open slopes below treeline. Stick to sheltered terrain; things will still be tricky out there.
Strong overnight winds on Wednesday will redistribute the recent storm snow and create widespread windslabs in all open areas, potentially even on open slopes below treeline. Stick to sheltered terrain; things will still be tricky out there.
Fresh storm slabs are building and will be touchier in exposed areas where they have been stiffened by the wind. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">
Loose dry avalanches will be bigger in sheltered terrain where they can entrain the previous storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Loose snow may run quickly on steep solar aspects where they sit on a thin suncrust.
The February 14 facet layer has been buried by up to 40cm of storm snow with extreme winds. Recent skier triggered avalanches in neighboring regions paired with few observations have us treating this layer with respect as we gather information.
Up to 50cm of snow over the Feb 19 interface has proven to be mainly reactive where the wind formed slabs. These extend well into treeline elevations. New snow Thursday has contributed to these slabs but may also bury them, making them hard to detect
Up to 50cm of snow over the Feb 19 interface has proven to be mainly reactive where the wind formed slabs. These extend well into treeline elevations. New snow Thursday has contributed to these slabs but may also bury them, making them hard to detect
The February 14 facet layer has been buried by up to 40cm of storm snow with extreme winds. Recent skier triggered avalanches in neighboring regions paired with few observations have us treating this layer with respect as we gather information.
Up to 45 cm of new snow has formed fresh storm slabs, these will be touchier in exposed areas where they have been stiffened by the wind. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">
Expect loose dry avalanches in steep terrain.&nbsp; These may run quicker on steep solar aspects where they sit on a thin suncrust.
Caution in thin&nbsp; facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Areas that got more snow in the past two days are seeing significant sluffing in steep terrain. In most places this can be managed with good ski cutting and sluff management techniques, but it could be a problem in confined gullies or couloirs.
Areas that got more snow in the past two days are seeing significant sluffing in steep terrain. In most places this can be managed with good ski cutting and sluff management techniques, but it could be a problem in confined gullies or couloirs.
Up to 55 cm of new snow has formed fresh storm slabs, these will be touchier in exposed areas where they have been stiffened by the wind. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">
Expect loose dry avalanches in steep terrain. These may run quicker on steep solar aspects where they sit on a thin suncrust.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Significant sluffing in steep terrain in areas that received more snow late last week. Increased wind will add to the problem on Sunday. Watch your exposure to steep terrain traps and gully features.
Significant sluffing in steep terrain in areas that received more snow late last week. Increased wind will add to the problem on Sunday. Watch your exposure to steep terrain traps and gully features.
Up to 70 cm of new snow this week has formed fresh storm slabs. These will be more reactive in exposed areas where they have been stiffened by the wind and overlay a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Up to 70 cm of new snow this week may be more prone to slab formation with warming temperatures today.&nbsp;
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Two weak facet interfaces exist in the top meter of the snowpack. On south aspects this problem could be associated with a sun crust. These layers are present in many areas, but we have uncertainty on where they will be reactive.
Rising freezing levels will make Wet Loose avalanches a major concern on Wednesday afternoon and Thursday. Be mindful of your overhead hazard be aware that warm temperatures may cause cornices to fail.
This problem is most prevalent at and below treeline. The probability of triggering this layer is decreasing by the day but the consequence is still very high due to the depth of burial down 20-50cm and the potential for wide propagation.
Clear weather and warm temperatures are forecast over the next 3 days. The March sun is strong, and will pack a punch on solar aspects. Steep, rocky terrain with thin snowpacks (eastern regions) will be the most susceptible
Arial';font-style: Normal;font-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #000000; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/473fd502-7baf-11eb-b9b7-d6f5b8c172ff" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Two weak facet interfaces exist</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> in the top meter of the snowpack. On south aspects this problem could be associated with a sun crust. These layers are present in many areas, but we have uncertainty on where they will be reactive.
Afternoon sun is packing a punch on lower elevation, SW through W slopes. Ice climbers: be extremely cautious. Overhead hazards can catch sun early.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Clear weather and warm temperatures are forecast over the next 3 days. The March sun is strong, and will pack a punch on solar aspects. Steep, rocky terrain with thin snowpacks will be the most susceptible
Clear skies and warm temperatures are forecasted over the next few days. The March sun is strong, and will pack a punch on solar aspects, weakening the upper snowpack. Steep, rocky terrain with thin snowpacks will be the most susceptible.
Arial';font-style: Normal;font-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #000000; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/473fd502-7baf-11eb-b9b7-d6f5b8c172ff" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Two weak facet interfaces exist</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> in the top meter of the snowpack. On south aspects this problem could be associated with a sun crust. These layers are present in many areas, but we have uncertainty on where they will be reactive.
Afternoon sun is packing a punch on lower elevation, SW through W slopes. Ice climbers: be extremely cautious. Overhead hazards can catch sun early.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Clear skies and warm temperatures are forecast over the next few days. The March sun is strong and will pack a punch on solar aspects. Steep, rocky terrain will be the most susceptible.
This problem is most prevalent at and below treeline, and will become easier to trigger with the warm temperatures. An avalanche on this layer will have heavy consequences with a burial depth of 20-50cm and the potential for wide propagation.
Rising freezing levels will make wet loose avalanches a major concern. Be mindful of your overhead hazard be aware that warm temperatures may cause cornices to fail.
Strong solar radiation and high freezing levels will initiate a wet loose avalanche cycle today. This will occur primarily on steep solar aspects; however, we'll still see activity on shaded aspects at lower elevations.
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous extreme winds have left behind variable wind slabs in the Alpine and exposed areas of Treeline. A skier accidental size 3 wind slab occurred yesterday in the Grizzly Couloir, triggered by the 4th skier in the group. </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/north-columbia?panel=mountain-information-network-submissions/b276a3bc-7c8a-11eb-a446-ea9c29792ce5" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Click here for details.</span></a><span class="s_AA239
Arial';font-style: Normal;font-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #000000; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/473fd502-7baf-11eb-b9b7-d6f5b8c172ff" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">Two weak facet interfaces exist</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> in the top meter of the snowpack.&nbsp; They are the sliding layer for many recent explosive controlled, skier triggered, &amp; natural avalanches. On south aspects this problem could be associated with a sun crust.
Mostly clear skies and warm temperatures are forecasted again for Friday. The March sun is strong, and will pack a punch on solar aspects, weakening the upper snowpack. Steep, rocky terrain with thin snowpacks will be the most susceptible.
Afternoon sun is packing a punch on lower elevation, SW through W slopes. Ice climbers: be extremely cautious. Overhead hazards can catch sun early.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Clear skies and warm temperatures are forecast for Friday. The March sun is strong and will pack a punch on solar aspects. Steep, rocky terrain will be the most susceptible.
This is the second consecutive day of warm temperatures with freezing levels climbing into the alpine. A weak surface crust will break down quickly today. Wet loose avalanches will be a factor this afternoon, especially if and when the sun comes out.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Two layers of facets and/or sun crust in the top meter of the snowpack have been active in the past week.  Surface crusts formed over the last 2 days may reduce the likelihood of triggering at lower elevations and on solar aspects.
15cm of new snow fell overnight and sits atop a breakable crust and 10cm of moist snow. Although temperatures are dropping, moisture in upper snowpack and locally strong winds will help increase the slab properties of this new dump.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
The sun is packing a strong punch on south through west aspects when it comes out.
Two layers of facets and/or sun crust in the top meter of the snowpack have been active in the past week. Cooler temps and surface crusts formed over the last two days may reduce the likelihood of triggering at lower elevations and on solar aspects.
The new snow is likely to sluff in steep solar terrain anytime the sun comes out and rapid heating occurs. This can be amplified in thin rocky areas. Watch for this in gullies or couloirs that have a solar aspect above them.
The new snow is likely to sluff in steep solar terrain anytime the sun comes out and rapid heating occurs. This can be amplified in thin rocky areas. Watch for this in gullies or couloirs that have a solar aspect above them.
More snow and wind forecast for today. 15cm of new snow fell overnight Friday and sits atop a breakable crust at treeline and below, and wind slabs in exposed alpine areas.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Two layers of facets and/or sun crust in the top meter of the snowpack have been active in the past week. Cooler temps and surface crusts now formed may reduce the likelihood of triggering on solar aspects.
As the sun comes out in the afternoon with the forecast light winds, expect a significant solar punch to moisten recent surface snow. This snow is already sitting on previous crusts and though small, these avalanches may run fast at far.
As the sun comes out in the afternoon with the forecast light winds, expect a significant solar punch to moisten recent surface snow. This snow is already sitting on previous crusts and though small, these avalanches may run fast at far.
Today will be the first dose of strong solar input on the recent storm snow. Expect loose snow avalanches from steep solar aspects at all elevations, especially in areas with rocky or treed features.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
This problem is most prevalent at and below treeline where it exists as a prominent facet layer down 30-70. Though activity has tapered off it is at a prime depth to be triggered by skiers, especially as things heat up during the day on solar aspects
The sun is packing a punch these days, and surface snow will quickly destabilize on steep solar aspects when it comes out.
Two layers of facets and/or sun crust in the top meter of the snowpack have been active in the past week. Cooler temps and surface crusts now formed may reduce the likelihood of triggering on solar aspects but little change is apparent otherwise.
Today's strong solar input on S'ly slopes will increase hazard during the warmest part of the day. Expect loose snow avalanches from steep solar aspects at all elevations, especially in areas with rocky or treed features.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
As the mercury slowly rises above 0 and the sun comes out, solar slopes will start to loose strength. Caution with your timing when traveling on/under these features.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
15cm of recent snow may release on the crust below it if it gets enough sun
This problem is most prevalent at and below treeline where it exists as a prominent facet layer down 30-70. Rapidly rising temperatures will likely trigger natural avalanches on this layer with potential for wide propagation.
The sun is packing a punch these days, and surface snow will quickly destabilize on steep solar aspects when it comes out.
The next few days will see an increase in freezing levels and solar input, peaking on the weekend. We should see a good freeze Friday AM but watch afternoon solar effect as conditions can deteriorate quickly.
The next few days will see an increase in freezing levels and solar input, peaking on the weekend. We should see a good freeze Friday AM but watch afternoon solar effect as conditions can deteriorate quickly. 
As the mercury slowly rises above 0 and the sun comes out, solar slopes will loose strength. Caution with your timing when traveling on/under these features. Best time to travel is early while its frozen solid.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
This weekend will bring an increase in freezing levels and solar input. We should see some recovery over night, but watch afternoon solar effect as conditions can deteriorate quickly.
We have had a few persistent slabs triggered by cornices (which are large!) over the past few days, mainly on alpine N aspects. If solar slopes start to break down from heat on Friday, these weak layers could reawaken on other aspects and elevations.
This weekend will bring an increase in freezing levels and solar input. We should see some recovery over night, but watch afternoon solar effect as conditions can deteriorate quickly.
As the mercury slowly rises above 0 and the sun comes out, solar slopes will loose strength. Caution with your timing when traveling on/under these features. Best time to travel is early while its frozen solid.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Watch for signs of instability like snowballing and water running on rock faces, these are indications its time to avoid large solar slopes.
This weekend will bring warm temps and a rise in freezing levels and solar input. We should see some over night crust recovery, but watch for solar effect as conditions can deteriorate quickly.
This weekend will bring an increase in freezing levels and solar input. We should see some recovery over night, but watch for solar effect as conditions can deteriorate quickly.
Even with clouds in the forecast, green house effect and higher freezing levels have the potential to&nbsp; warm up the snowpack enough for the wet loose to be an issue. Best time to travel is early while its frozen solid.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Watch for signs of instability like snowballing and water running on rock faces, these are indications it is time to avoid solar slopes.
Substantial crusts have formed on solar slopes that vary with slope angle, aspect and elevation. Solar heating will affect steep slopes first and solar effect will vary with local winds and cloud. Plan your day carefully around expected local heating
Substantial crusts have formed on solar slopes that vary with slope angle, aspect and elevation. Solar heating will affect steep slopes first and solar effect will vary with local winds and cloud. Plan your day carefully around expected local heating
Even with clouds in the forecast, green house effect and higher freezing levels have the potential to warm up the snowpack enough for the wet loose to be an issue. Best time to travel is early while its frozen solid.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
Clearing skies and warm afternoon temps could start a wet loose cycle late in the day at low elevations. Cool radiant air temps are expected to keep the loose wet problem at bay at tree line and above.
Clearing skies and warm afternoon temps could start a wet loose cycle late in the day at low elevations. Cool radiant air temps are expected to keep the loose wet problem at bay at tree line and above.
Watch out for solar heating and daytime warming to trigger avalanches especially from steep rocky terrain.
Caution in thin facetted snowpack areas where triggering is more likely. This is a low probability but high consequence problem.
A diurnal cycle is developing on steep solar slopes treeline and below, with the most reactivity seen at lower elevations.
Direct sun and warm afternoon temps could start a wet loose cycle late in the day at low elevations. Cool radiant air temps are expected to keep the loose wet problem at bay at tree line and above.
Direct sun and warm afternoon temps could start a wet loose cycle late in the day at low elevations. Cool radiant air temps are expected to keep the loose wet problem at bay at tree line and above.
Watch out for solar heating (sun) and daytime warming to trigger avalanches, especially from steep rocky terrain.
1681A555">This week we have observed several large avalanches in steep, rocky, S-SW facing terrain. While these avalanches were primarily loose wet in nature, some slabs, and even glide slabs were witnessed.
Direct sun and warm afternoon temps could start a wet loose cycle late in the day at low elevations. Cool air temperatures are expected to keep the loose wet problem at bay at tree line and above.
Varied sensitivity on solar aspects, likelihood increases on the steepest slopes. It ay nbe possible to trigger deeper instabilities once initiated.
Direct sun and warm afternoon temps could start a wet loose cycle late in the day at low elevations. Cool air temperatures are expected to keep the loose wet problem at bay at tree line and above.
The sun is packing a punch these days, and surface snow can destabilize on steep solar aspects when it comes out.
1681A555">This week we have observed several large avalanches in steep, rocky, S-SW facing terrain. While these avalanches were primarily loose wet in nature, some slabs, and even glide slabs were witnessed.
Varied sensitivity on solar aspects, likelihood increases on the steepest slopes. It may be possible to trigger deeper instabilities once initiated.
An overnight freezing level of 1800m and forecasted rain at lower elevations does not bode well for the snowpack at tree line and below. There will be minimal crust recovery overnight and the snowpack will loose strength quickly.
An overnight freezing level of 1800m and forecasted rain at lower elevations does not bode well for the snowpack at tree line and below. There will be minimal crust recovery overnight and the snowpack will loose strength quickly.
1681A555">This week we have observed several large avalanches in steep, rocky, S-SW facing terrain. While these avalanches were primarily loose wet in nature, some slabs, and even glide slabs were witnessed.
Poor crust recovery Thursday night combined with rain below 1500m has weakened the snowpack at valley bottom levels. At higher elevations new snow over crusts will become moist quickly with solar inputs.
Poor crust recovery Thursday night combined with rain below 1500m has weakened the snowpack at valley bottom levels. At higher elevations new snow over crusts will become moist quickly with solar inputs.
Varied sensitivity on solar aspects, likelihood increases on the steepest slopes. It may be possible to trigger deeper instabilities once initiated.
Expect loose snow to run readily in steep terrain.
Expect loose snow to run readily in steep terrain that is sheltered from the wind in the alpine and treeline. The new snow seems to be bonding better below 1800m, but upper elevations of BTL may still have fast running new snow over a crust.
Today's weather forecast calls for sunny periods. Although the day is starting off cold, intense spring sun combined with recently deposited snow will lead to loose avalanches on steep solar terrain this afternoon.
This problem is specific to Sunday when the temperatures rise dramatically. Be mindful of your overhead hazard and avoid sun affected slopes.
Storm slabs will begin to build Saturday evening, becoming the primary problem of concern by Sunday.
This problem is specific to lower elevations on Sunday as rainfall will stress the snowpack below freezing level. Be mindful of your overhead hazard and avoid travel through large avalanche paths.
Rain and warm temperature will break down the snowpack at lower elevations and increase the likelihood for loose wet avalanche activity. This problem could release to ground causing small but destructive avalanches.
Rain and warm temperature will break down the snowpack at lower elevations and increase the likelihood for loose wet avalanche activity. This problem could release to ground causing small but destructive avalanches.
Warms temps, wind and heavy snowfall are the perfect recipe for storm slab development.
The new snow along with warm temperatures may lead to the formation of storm slabs. The distribution BTL is dependant on the freezing levels Sunday afternoon / evening (elevations where it is raining and below will not have a storm slab problem).
The new snow will sluff easily in steep terrain, especially in areas that received the largest amounts over the past 24 hours.
The new snow will sluff easily in steep terrain, especially in areas that received the largest amounts over the past 24 hours.
A significant storm yesterday brought plenty of snow, wind, and warm temperatures to Rogers Pass. These weather conditions formed excellent conditions for slab avalanches!
There is still potential for the recent storm snow to sluff in steep terrain, especially in areas that received the largest amounts over the past 24 hours.
There is still potential for the recent storm snow to sluff in steep terrain, especially in areas that received the largest amounts over the past 24 hours.
Sun and warm temperatures will cause the recent snow to slide. The warming will be most significant in low elevation steep, rocky, solar terrain in the front ranges east of the divide. Alpine winds will help to cool temperatures
Sun and warm temperatures will cause the recent snow to slide. The warming will be most significant in low elevation steep, rocky, solar terrain in the front ranges east of the divide. Alpine winds will help to cool temperatures
If the sun comes out this afternoon, we should see a small loose dry cycle in steep terrain features on solar aspects.
Sun and warm temperatures will weaken the snowpack at lower elevations, especially on steep, rocky, solar terrain. Avoid these areas if the snow is moist or punchy.
Sun and warm temperatures will weaken the snowpack at lower elevations, especially on steep, rocky, solar terrain. Avoid these areas if the snow is moist or punchy.
Pay attention to the air temperature and surface snow condition as conditions deteriorate through the day.
The incoming 10mm of precipitation will likely be rain at low elevations. This has the potential to activate this problem by soaking the shallow snowpack. 
Saturday will see a freezing level of ~1900m and periods of increased solar radiation which could quickly weaken the snowpack . Avoid slopes where the snow is moist or punchy.
Saturday will see a freezing level of ~1900m and periods of increased solar radiation which could quickly weaken the snowpack . Avoid slopes where the snow is moist or punchy.
Cooler temps on Sunday may limit this problem, but with a poor overnight freeze expected, keep it on your radar.
Pay attention to the air temperature and surface snow condition as conditions deteriorate through the day.
Rain soaked snow below 1200m, warm snow at treeline and new snow over a crust on solar aspects may be susceptible to solar and human triggering if sunny spells occur this afternoon
Strong solar inputs on Monday will increase the likelihood of small loose wet avalanches on steep solar aspects, especially in thin snowpack or rocky areas. Plan your day to avoid this type of terrain as the surface snow warms up.
Expect loose wet avalanches, especially in the heat of the day. Solar aspects TL and below are suspect.
Strong solar inputs on Monday will increase the likelihood of small loose wet avalanches on steep solar aspects, especially in thin snowpack or rocky areas. Plan your day to avoid this type of terrain as the surface snow warms up.
Despite a good overnight refreeze, the April sun packs a real punch and moist snow is preserved below the surface crust below treeline. At treeline and above, expect the newly fallen snow to be quickly affected by the sun.
Strong solar input on Tues and even warmer temps will increase the likelihood of small loose wet avalanches on steep solar aspects, especially in thin snowpack or rocky areas. Plan your day to avoid this type of terrain as the surface snow warms up.
Strong solar input on Tues and even warmer temps will increase the likelihood of small loose wet avalanches on steep solar aspects, especially in thin snowpack or rocky areas. Plan your day to avoid this type of terrain as the surface snow warms up.
Several wet loose avalanches were observed Monday afternoon on solar aspects Tree line and below. Keep this in mind when planning your travel times in these locations.
Avalanche activity will follow the strong Spring sunshine. Solar aspects will shed the recent snow as the sun warms the slopes - SE in the morning, S'ly midday, SW and W in the afternoon.
Freezing levels are expected at about 1700 meters. Places like Parkers ridge will most likely see dry snow. Further down the highway by Weeping wall could see a mix of snow and rain.
A poor refreeze last night and incoming warm precip may trigger loose, wet avalanches at lower elevations.
Freezing levels are expected at about 1700 meters. Places like Parkers ridge (over 2000m) will most likely see dry snow. Further down the highway by Weeping wall could see a mix of snow and rain.
Evaluate the bond between the new snow and underlying hard surface before exposing yourself to bigger terrain features. Storm slabs will transition to wind slabs as the winds increase on Friday.
Watch for the new snow to become increasingly reactive in the afternoon if/when the sun comes out.
New snow and strong winds at ridgetops and well down into the terrain.
Solar input on Friday could create loose wet avalanche out of steep solar terrain at treeline and below.
Keep an eye out for rising temperatures and solar radiation
With intense solar inputs expected Tuesday and lots of loose snow on solar aspects, we expect many loose wet avalanches over the next few days. Keep an eye on any sun exposed terrain above you and be off steep solar terrain before these start.
With intense solar inputs expected Tuesday and lots of loose snow on solar aspects, we expect many loose wet avalanches over the next few days. Keep an eye on any sun exposed terrain above you and be off steep solar terrain before these start.
Strong solar radiation is forecast for today. Extra caution is required on steep slopes and thin snowpack areas where the sun will have the most affect.
Keep an eye out for rising temperatures and strong solar radiation. Start early and finish early to avoid the highest hazard period, early afternoon through to dark.
With intense solar inputs expected and lots of loose snow on solar aspects, we expect many loose wet avalanches over the next few days. Keep an eye on any sun exposed terrain above you and be off steep solar terrain before these start.
With intense solar inputs expected and lots of loose snow on solar aspects, we expect many loose wet avalanches over the next few days. Keep an eye on any sun exposed terrain above you and be off steep solar terrain before these start.
Inverted temperatures and strong solar radiation today will likely initiate a wet loose cycle in steep, rocky, south facing terrain. Starting and finishing your day early will set you up for success, evading the most hazardous part of the day.
With intense solar inputs expected and lots of loose snow on solar aspects, we expect many loose wet avalanches over the next few days. Keep an eye on any sun exposed terrain above you and be off steep solar terrain before these start.
With intense solar inputs expected and lots of loose snow on solar aspects, we expect many loose wet avalanches over the next few days. Keep an eye on any sun exposed terrain above you and be off steep solar terrain before these start.
Keep an eye out for rising temperatures and strong solar radiation. Start early and finish early to avoid the highest hazard period, early afternoon through to dark.
Forecasted freezing levels coming into the weekend have the potential to produce a widespread loose wet cycle and historically this is when some of the deeper instabilities have been know to make a resurgence.
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #0000FF;text-decoration: underline; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Inverted temperatures and strong solar radiation today will likely initiate a wet loose cycle in steep, south facing terrain. Starting and finishing your day early will set you up for success. Check out </span><a href="https://www.avalanche.ca/blogs/as-the-tulips-rise" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">this link</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> for more info on spring conditions.
Forecasted freezing levels coming into the weekend have the potential to produce a widespread loose wet cycle and historically this is when some of the deeper instabilities have been know to make a resurgence.
ont-weight: normal;font-size: 13px;color: #FF0000; } 
</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rapidly rising temperatures and strong solar radiation making this a variable but significant problem at all elevations and aspects. Start early and finish early to </span><span class="s_A70D9029">avoid the highest hazard</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span><span class="s_A70D9029">period, </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">early afternoon through to dark.
Expect widespread wet loose avalanches in all gullies on Friday and Saturday. Don't expose yourself to any gully features once the day begins to warm up.
Expect widespread wet loose avalanches in all gullies on Friday and Saturday. Don't expose yourself to any gully features once the day begins to warm up.
With the lull in the winds, windslabs have stopped growing. Unfortunately they haven't started bonding, like you would expect. Exposed areas have an odd eeriness that kept us limited to low angle, supported terrain today.
This covers the wind slabs in the alpine and a deeper slab below tree line.
This covers the wind slabs in the alpine and a thinner more reactive layer at treeline and below.
Lets think east side of the road vs west side of the road for a second. On the west side, windslabs are present at treeline and above. They are weak from the cold spell and will be more likely to trigger on steep convex rolls. Conversely, the east side of the road is much shallower and has a more sensitive and unpredictable feel to it. Choose supported terrain with no terrain traps.
Lets think east side of the road vs west side of the road for a second. On the west side, windslabs are present at treeline and above. They are weak from the cold spell and will be more likely to trigger on steep convex rolls. Conversely, the east side of the road is much shallower and has a more sensitive and unpredictable feel to it. Choose supported terrain with no terrain traps.
Lets think east side of the road vs west side of the road for a second. On the west side, windslabs are present at treeline and above. They are weak from the cold spell and will be more likely to trigger on steep convex rolls. Conversely, the east side of the road is much shallower and has a more sensitive and unpredictable feel to it. Choose supported terrain with no terrain traps.
Lets think east side of the road vs west side of the road for a second. On the west side, windslabs are present at treeline and above. They are weak from the cold spell and will be more likely to trigger on steep convex rolls. Conversely, the east side of the road is much shallower and has a more sensitive and unpredictable feel to it. Choose supported terrain with no terrain traps.
Rapid warning and settlement in the upper snowpack is making this interface that was dormant more reactive of late.  Solar aspects are good places to avoid and let the slope stabilize as it adjust to this new input of solar radiation.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Solar radiation is still a concern on cloudy days, especially without an overnight freeze. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Solar radiation is still a concern on cloudy days, especially without an overnight freeze. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Solar radiation is still a concern on cloudy days, especially without an overnight freeze. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Solar radiation is still a concern on cloudy days, especially without an overnight freeze. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
Solar radiation will be less intense on Friday due to cloud cover but if the sun does poke through, it will become wet quickly.  Also pay attention to the quality of the freeze overnight...
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Solar radiation is still a concern on cloudy days, especially without an overnight freeze. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
We did see this as a failure recently, both natural and with explosives. This suggests we are in the hard, but not impossible to trigger phase.
Spindrift is forming isolated slabs below cliffs. 40 degree plus terrain will likely sluff when skied.
A lot of snow fell in the past 24hrs! Sluffing in steep terrain on all aspects can be expected.
New snow may not stick to the refrozen crusts.
As all the new snow settles it may become more reactive as it becomes more of a slab.
When the sun comes out expect a quick deterioration on solar aspects. Freezes have been marginal down low lately, which also contributes to the quick change.
Rapid warning and settlement in the upper snowpack is making this interface that was dormant more reactive of late.  Solar aspects are good places to avoid and let the slope stabalize as it adjust to this new input of solar radiation.
Watch for storm slabs in open areas at treeline and below.
When the solar radiation is strong and the air temperatures rise, loose wet avalanches will start to run. Avoid these terrain features after mid-morning.
A light re-freeze tonight will contribute to a possible solar triggered avalanche problem in the AM.
Only a marginal freeze overnight and clear skies will make this a problem.
No surprise here, if the sun comes out expect a quick deterioration on solar aspects. Freezes have been marginal down low lately, which also contributes to the quick change.
When the sun comes out expect a quick deterioration on solar aspects. Freezes have been marginal down low lately, which also contributes to the quick change.
Intense solar radiation and high freezing levels will quickly destabilize the snow on solar aspects on Tuesday.
We did see this as a failure layer today on a the control run. This suggests we are in the hard, but not impossible to trigger phase.
Incoming snow will sluff easily in steep terrain at all elevations. A loose dry avalanche failing in steep terrain could trigger a slab avalanche on the slopes below.
Intense solar radiation at this time of year can quickly elevate avalanche activity on solar aspects. Time your exposure to these slopes to avoid the heat of the day.
This weekend will be the warmest we have seen this Spring. This is a good time to respect those monstrous cornices.
This weekend will be the warmest we have seen this Spring. This is a good time to respect those monstrous cornices.
This weekend will be the warmest we have seen this Spring. This is a good time to respect those monstrous cornices.
This is a good time to respect those monstrous cornices.
Warm temperatures, rainfalls, and the absence of overnight freeze will destabilize the upper portion of the snowpack. It will be very likely for skiers to trigger small loose-wet avalanches on steep slopes in areas where the snow has accumulated over the last few days.
With the expected snow amounts (30-50 cm), storm slabs will develop at all elevation on all aspects. Cohesive soft slabs and loose dry avalanches are likely to be triggered naturally throughout the day on Wednesday. Avalanche conditions are dangerous in the alpine and travel in avalanche terrain is NOT RECOMMANDED.
Avalanche danger will increase throughout the day to reach a maximum in the afternoon. With rapid accumulations forecasted, storm slabs will build up all day. These snow instabilities include wind slabs on leeward slopes and loose-dry avalanches (sluff). This new snow will fall on a previously weak upper snowpack (soft wind slabs or loose snow)","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[],"data":{}},{"key":"4rg5b","text":"
Avalanche conditions will remain dangerous Tuesday. With rapid snowfall rates forecasted, storm slabs will build up all day. These snow instabilities include wind slabs on leeward slopes and loose-dry avalanches (sluff). This new snow will fall on a previously weak upper snowpack (soft wind slabs or loose snow)","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[],"data":{}},{"key":"4rg5b","text":"
New wind slabs up to 25-60 cm have developed above the March 12 melt-freeze crust. They are overlying a thin layer of facetted grains that are starting to react to stability tests. They could therefore be easily triggered by skiers or snowboarders on the steep, convex slopes recently loaded by the wind.  The 2 to 5 cm of new snow forecasted for Thursday will simply add more winds slabs at the top of all!","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[],"data":{}},{"key":"fa7em","text":"
Avalanche conditions will remain dangerous Wednesday. With continued snowfalls forecasted, storm slabs will remain reactive all day. These snow instabilities include wind slabs on leeward slopes and loose-dry avalanches (sluff). This new snow will fall on a previously weak upper snowpack (soft wind slabs or loose snow)","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[],"data":{}},{"key":"4rg5b","text":"
The powder snow will gradually warm up during the day with the forecasted warm temperature (+ 7C in the valley) and southerly winds. It will be possible for skiers to trigger small loose-wet avalanches on steep slopes in areas where the snow has accumulated over the last few days.
With the rain which continues overnight, totalling 25-40 mm, wet snow avalanches (slab and loose) are likely on all aspects and elevations.
For a third day in a row, positive temperatures and sunshine will warm up the snow at the surface. Skier triggering of small avalanche will be possible. Start your day early and choose slopes before they are heated by the sun. Learn more about spring scenarios here and how to properly manage the risk in the days ahead.","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":227,"length":93,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"type":"LINK","mutability":"M
Monday's positives temperatures and sunshine will warm up the snow at the surface. Natural but very small avalanche activity is possible. Start your day early and choose slopes before they are heated by the sun. Learn more about spring scenarios here and how to properly manage the risk in the days ahead.","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":212,"length":93,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"type":"LINK","mutability":"M
For a fourth day in a row, positive temperatures and sunshine will warm up the snow at the surface. Skier triggering of small avalanche will be possible. Start your day early and choose slopes before they are heated by the sun. Learn more about spring scenarios here and how to properly manage the risk in the days ahead.","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":228,"length":93,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"type":"LINK","mutability":"M
For a fifth day in a row, positive temperatures will continue weakening of the the snow at the surface. No noticeable refreezing at night and the forecasted rain will increase the possibility of small avalanches being triggered by a skier.
The new storm snow (25-30 cm) will quickly become unstable Tuesday as the strong and warm March sun will appear. Loose-wet snow avalanches will be likely on steep slopes. Even if they are small, they can easily knock you off balance and into an obstacle. ","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":113,"length":26,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"typ
The warm temperatures forecasted for tomorrow combined with the absence of night freeze could increase the likelihood of accidental triggering of small wet snow avalanches on steep slopes and in extreme terrain.
For a fourth day in a row, positive temperatures and sunshine will warm up the snow at the surface without noticeable refreezing at night. Skier triggering of small avalanche will be possible. Start your day early and choose slopes before they are heated by the sun. Learn more about spring scenarios here and how to properly manage the risk in the days ahead.","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":267,"length":93,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"type":"LINK","mutability":"M
New snow and wind will build touchy storm slabs. Their size and sensitivity to triggering will increase throughout the day. This new snow will fall on a melt-freeze crust, widespread on all slopes and elevation, which makes an excellent bed surface for avalanches. Natural avalanches will be likely in the alpine and on steep wind-loaded slopes at treeline. ","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":36,"length":11,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"type"
With the rain forecasted (20-30 mm), wet snow avalanches (slab and loose) are very likely on all aspects and elevations.
The storm snow (25-30 cm) will quickly become unstable Wednesday as the strong and warm March sun will appear. Loose-wet snow avalanches will be likely on steep slopes. Even if they are small, they can easily knock you off balance and into an obstacle. ","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[{"offset":111,"length":26,"key":0}],"data":{}}],"entityMap":{"0":{"typ
The snow covering the March 12 melt-freeze crust has been weakened and moistened by heat and sunlight over the past four days, and the rain forecast for Thursday could destabilize it. Natural avalanches are possible while others could probably be triggered by a skier.