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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 10 and 40cm of storm snow now lies on a variety of previous surfaces. This storm snow is settling rapidly and is sluffing in steep terrain at higher elevations. Storm slabs exist on N and E aspects at treeline and above, and slabs are also developing on South aspects due to increasing Northerly winds.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 30cm of snow sits on a crust or wet snow. Moderate to strong west and southwest winds may have formed windslabs in the lee of terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light to generally moderate snow accumulations from Friday night have been shifted by variable winds into windslabs which exist at treeline and above. In some areas ongoing snowfall throughout the weekend has produced overlying soft slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar interface is buried within the upper metre of the snowpack, mainly on high-elevation northerly aspects. Although it may be gaining strength, these slopes should be treated with suspicion particularly in deep snowpack areas where the overlying slab is well developed. On other slopes, recent storm snow overlies a crust. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10-20cm of new snow has fallen recently. Warm afternoon temperatures has settled this storm snow and moistened the surface on all but the highest and most sheltered terrain. This most recent storm snow overlies 20-40 cm of heavily winded snow from last Tuesday's storm. The previous storm and wind slabs are bonding poorly to an underlying crust. Buried surface hoar may be found down 60-100cm. In some areas this persistent weakness is stubborn and requires a significant trigger. In other areas the layer is still well preserved showing sudden planar or sudden collapse test results, and remains a primary concern among some professional operators. The mid snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, basal facets may resurface as a concern with spring warming, particularly in the north of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large and tabs have grown with the recent weather pattern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">15-35cm of recent snow is generally bonding well to the previous snow surface, which includes crusts, facets and/or surface hoar (very isolated locations). Warm afternoon temperatures have moistened the surface snow on all but the highest and most sheltered slopes. Previous strong westerly winds created widespread hard and soft wind slabs in exposed areas and these slabs are now lightly buried. They have become stubborn to react to human triggers but may still be triggered by large loads such as a cornice fall. Below treeline, the surface snow is undergoing daily melt-freeze cycles with the upper meter of snow becoming wet and losing cohesion by mid-afternoon. Concerns remain for a patchy persistent weakness buried a month ago, and deeper in the snowpack, basal facets may become a concern with continued mild temperatures. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are well-developed and have grown with the recent isolated storms.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to locally heavy snow accumulations from Friday night have been shifted by southwest, and more recently northeast winds into windslabs which exist at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar interface is buried within the upper metre or so of the snowpack, mainly on high-elevation northerly aspects. It may be slowly gaining some strength, but these slopes should still be treated with suspicion. On other slopes, recent storm snow overlies a crust. This interface may become particularly reactive on solar aspects as sunnier skies prevail over the next few days. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices in the region are very large and potentially destructive. Triggering will become more likely with forecast sunny periods.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30cm of new snow sits on a variety of surfaces. Overnight freezing has consolidated previously loose wet snow at treeline and below. Recent moderate winds may have developed windslabs at upper elevations. Surface crusts are expected to break down during the day and then re-freeze overnight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30cm of new snow sits on a crust or wet snow. Moderate to strong west and southwest winds may have formed windslabs in the lee of terrain features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to locally heavy snow accumulations from Friday night have been shifted by southwest, and more recently northeast winds into windslabs which exist at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A surface hoar interface is buried within the upper metre or so of the snowpack, mainly on high-elevation northerly aspects. It may be slowly gaining some strength, but these slopes should still be treated with suspicion. On other slopes, recent storm snow overlies a crust. This interface may become particularly reactive on solar aspects as sunnier skies prevail over the next few days. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices in the region are very large and potentially destructive. Triggering will become more likely with forecast sunny periods.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">50-70cm of new snow in the alpine overlies a supportive crust or moist snow. Reports indicate that this storm snow is starting to bond well to the old snow surface. This storm snow is becoming moist below 1800m on solar aspects. An overnight refreeze may have created a crust on the surface at lower elevations. Expect this crust to break down quickly as temperatures rise during the day. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Generally moderate snow accumulations from Friday night have been shifted by southwest, and more recently northeast winds into windslabs which exist at treeline and above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some professionals are expressing concern for a surface hoar interface buried within the upper metre or so of the snowpack, mainly on high-elevation northerly aspects. It may be slowly gaining some strength, but these slopes should still be treated with suspicion. On other slopes, recent storm snow overlies a crust. This interface may become particularly reactive on solar aspects as sunnier skies prevail over the next few days. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices in the region are very large and potentially destructive. Triggering will become more likely with forecast sunny periods.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated convective snowshowers continue to materialize and there is up to 40cm of new storm snow in some locations. This has settled rapidly into small soft slabs due to strong greenhouse effect. The interface with this new snow is predominantly crusts (sun, wind and/or meltfreeze crusts). The bonds at this interface are improving but where the crusts are smooth the bonding is still questionable. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last Wednesday's storm deposited about 50cm of snow and was accompanied by moderate to strong south/southwest winds. Dense windslabs are now buried, but may still be reactive to large triggers in lee and cross-loaded alpine features. About 70cm below the surface you will likely find a melt-freeze crust from previous sunny weather. At the same interface spotty surface hoar lingers on high, sheltered north facing terrain. Where present, this surface hoar continues to yield sudden results in stability tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are huge and have fresh tabs from the recent storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Convective snowshowers have given up to 45cm of new snow at higher elevations accompanied by light to locally moderate south/southwest winds creating new windslabs in lee locations at treeline and in the alpine. The interface of the new snow is predominantly crusts (sun, wind, meltfreeze) and the bonds are poor in some locations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The previous storm (Wednesday) was accompanied by moderate to strong south/southwest winds which left variable snow distribution in exposed areas near ridgetop with dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. These slabs are now buried, but may still be reactive to heavy triggers or in specific locations. Up to 75cm below the surface you will likely find a melt-freeze crust from previous sunny weather. At the same interface, spotty surface hoar is still being reported (up to 20mm!) in some high, north facing slopes. Where the surface hoar is present, consistent sudden results have been observed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are huge and have grown new tabs under the current conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 30cm of new snow has fallen in the past 36 hours above 1400m. Recent moderate to strong winds have created wind slabs in alpine leeward slopes. Cooler temperatures may have may have frozen the wet and isothermic snow surface into a crust at lower elevations. Expect these crusts to break down quickly if temperatures rise during the day.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow amounts were variable due to the convective nature of the flurries, but average amounts were near 5cm at treeline with storm snow totals near 30cm. Storm slab up to 60cm thick are present in lee and cross-loaded terrain in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline. Isolated thin storm slabs are also found on S aspects due to recent winds. Previously formed crusts are now buried from 5 to 40cm depending on elevation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span><span class="s_1681A555">Winter is still in full effect at and above treeline. Winter riding conditions come with winter avalanche problems and now you need to be your own avalanche forecaster.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Here are a few things to think about:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Until we get into the melt/freeze cycle, most of the avalanche problems are relegated to the upper portion of the snowpack.  Storm slab, wind slabs and cornices remain primary concerns.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is plenty of snow available for transport up high which has been exposed to significant amounts of wind.  You may find wind slabs further down the slope than you expect this late in the season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Storm snow falling on crusts often produces a poor bond, at least initially.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The long days and strong late April sun affect snow surprising quickly.  It’s probably a good idea to steer clear of features where dry snow is receiving direct sun, especially for the first time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Lots of quick pits can help you put together the overall pattern of the zone that you’re recreating in.  If its been awhile since you were in the snow, start small and gain confidence in the snowpack before you get too ambitious.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span><span class="s_1681A555">Winter is still in full effect at and above treeline. Winter riding conditions come with winter avalanche problems and now you need to be your own avalanche forecaster.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Here are a few things to think about:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Until we get into the melt/freeze cycle, most of the avalanche problems are relegated to the upper portion of the snowpack.  Storm slab, wind slabs and cornices remain primary concerns.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is plenty of snow available for transport up high which has been exposed to significant amounts of wind.  You may find wind slabs further down the slope than you expect this late in the season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Storm snow falling on crusts often produces a poor bond, at least initially.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The long days and strong late April sun affect snow surprising quickly.  It’s probably a good idea to steer clear of features where dry snow is receiving direct sun, especially for the first time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Lots of quick pits can help you put together the overall pattern of the zone that you’re recreating in.  If its been awhile since you were in the snow, start small and gain confidence in the snowpack before you get too ambitious.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Winter is still in full effect at and above treeline. Winter riding conditions come with winter avalanche problems and now you need to be your own avalanche forecaster.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Here are a few things to think about:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Until we get into the melt/freeze cycle, most of the avalanche problems are relegated to the upper portion of the snowpack.  Storm slab, wind slabs and cornices remain primary concerns.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is plenty of snow available for transport up high which has been exposed to significant amounts of wind.  You may find wind slabs further down the slope than you expect this late in the season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Storm snow falling on crusts often produces a poor bond, at least initially.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The long days and strong late April sun affect snow surprising quickly.  It’s probably a good idea to steer clear of features where dry snow is receiving direct sun, especially for the first time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Lots of quick pits can help you put together the overall pattern of the zone that you’re recreating in.  If its been awhile since you were in the snow, start small and gain confidence in the snowpack before you get too ambitious.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10-20cm of new snow has fallen recently (Thursday-Sunday). Warm afternoon temperatures has settled this storm snow and moistened the surface on all but the highest and most sheltered terrain. At elevations below 800m there has been limited overnight recovery. This most recent storm snow overlies 20-40 cm of heavily winded snow from last week's storm. These previous slabs are slowly bonding to an underlying crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried surface hoar may be found down 60-100cm on the inland side of the region. In some areas this persistent weakness is stubborn and requires a significant trigger. In other areas the layer is still well preserved showing sudden planar or sudden collapse test results, and remains a primary concern among some professional operators. The mid snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, basal facets may resurface as a concern with spring warming, particularly in the north of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are large and tabs have grown with the recent weather pattern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 40 cm recent storm snow has been shifted by variable winds into wind slabs at treeline and above. In some areas, a trace of new snow overlies a refrozen surface on southerly aspects and below 2000 m on northerly aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak interface in the upper metre of the snowpack consists of a crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on high-elevation northerly aspects. Recent activity in Glacier National Park and the North Columbia regions demonstrates that this interface has the potential for surprisingly large avalanches. Cornices in the region are potentially destructive. Periods of warming or solar radiation may increase the reactivity of cornices and storm slabs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm recent storm snow has been shifted by variable winds into reactive wind slabs at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak interface down about 60-120 cm consists of a crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on high-elevation northerly aspects. Cornices in the region are very large and potentially destructive. Periods of warming or solar radiation may increase the reactivity of cornices and storm slabs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent storm snow continues to settle. Soft slabs are present in lee and cross-loaded features at alpine and treeline, and isolated thin slabs are also found on S aspects. Previously formed crusts persist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Winter is still in full effect at and above treeline. Winter riding conditions come with winter avalanche problems and now you need to be your own avalanche forecaster.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Here are a few things to think about:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Until we get into the melt/freeze cycle, most of the avalanche problems are relegated to the upper portion of the snowpack.  Storm slab, wind slabs and cornices remain primary concerns.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is plenty of snow available for transport up high which has been exposed to significant amounts of wind.  You may find wind slabs further down the slope than you expect this late in the season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Storm snow falling on crusts often produces a poor bond, at least initially.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The long days and strong late April sun affect snow surprising quickly.  It’s probably a good idea to steer clear of features where dry snow is receiving direct sun, especially for the first time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Lots of quick pits can help you put together the overall pattern of the zone that you’re recreating in.  If its been awhile since you were in the snow, start small and gain confidence in the snowpack before you get too ambitious.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent convective snowshowers (from Thursday to Sunday) have deposited up to 40cm of new storm snow in some locations. The surface snow is going moist on all aspects up to 1800m and continues moist into the alpine on solar aspects due to strong solar inputs. The underlying storm snow has settled into small soft slabs and the interface with this new snow is predominantly crusts (sun, wind and/or meltfreeze crusts). The bonds at this interface are improving but where the crusts are smooth the bonding is still questionable. In high alpine start zones, these surface slabs are stiffer and may have more propensity for propagation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last weeks's storm deposited about 50cm of snow and was accompanied by moderate to strong south/southwest winds. Dense windslabs are now buried, but may still be reactive in isolated alpine lee features to large triggers. About 70cm below the surface you will likely find a melt-freeze crust from previous sunny weather. At the same interface spotty surface hoar lingers on high, sheltered north facing terrain. Where present, this surface hoar continues to yield sudden results in stability tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are huge and have fresh tabs from the recent storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent convective snowshowers (Thursday to Sunday) have given up to 45cm of new snow at higher elevations. The surface snow is going moist on all aspects up to 2000m and continues moist into the alpine on solar aspects due to strong solar inputs. The new snow interface is predominantly crusts (sun, wind, meltfreeze) and the bonds are slowly tightening.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The previous storm (Wednesday) was accompanied by moderate to strong south/southwest winds which left variable snow distribution in exposed areas near ridgetop with dense wind slabs in lee and cross-loaded features. These slabs are now buried, but may still be reactive to heavy triggers or in specific locations. Up to 75cm below the surface you will likely find a melt-freeze crust from previous sunny weather. At the same interface, spotty surface hoar is still being reported (up to 20mm!) in some high, north facing slopes. Where the surface hoar is present, consistent sudden results have been observed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Cornices are huge and have grown new tabs under the current conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm recent storm snow has been shifted by variable winds into reactive wind slabs at treeline and above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak interface down about 60-120 cm consists of a crust on solar aspects, and surface hoar on high-elevation northerly aspects. It’s still causing problems, with a very large avalanche on the crust layer on Sunday and hard, sudden snowpack test results on the surface hoar. Cornices in the region are very large and potentially destructive. Periods of warming or solar radiation may increase the reactivity of cornices and storm slabs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm recent storm snow has been shifted by variable winds into wind slabs at treeline and above. Below treeline, warm daytime temperatures have been softening the snow surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some professionals are expressing concern for a surface hoar interface buried within the upper metre or so of the snowpack, mainly on high-elevation northerly aspects. It may be slowly gaining some strength, but these slopes should still be treated with suspicion. On other slopes, recent storm snow overlies a crust. This crust interface has recently become reactive in regions further south. Cornices in the region are very large and potentially destructive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reports suggest there is about 50cm of snow at 1600m in the Duffy Lake area, and about 100cm at the same elevation on the Coquihalla. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 15 and 25cm of new snow now overlies a generally well settled snowpack. In exposed high elevation terrain this new snow may exist as a wind slab. Rain at lower elevations has continued to saturate what little snow there is. Closer to the base of the snowpack you may find a few crusts which may have associated facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, although they might be worth exploring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Impressive amounts of rain fell on Saturday night. This rain saturated what little snow there was at lower elevations and added to a slowly developing base at high mountain top elevations. In general, the snowpack is below threshold for avalanche activity in many areas as most slopes need at least a metre of snow before ground roughness is buried enough for avalanches to occur.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reports suggest there is about one metre of snow at upper treeline elevations. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On the surface 10-35cm of new snow now overlies a generally well settled snowpack. This new snow is likely to exist as a wind slab in exposed high elevation terrain. Rain at lower elevations has continued to saturate what little snow there is. A few crusts can be found deeper in the snowpack which may have associated facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, although they might be worth exploring.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm accumulations have been highly variable throughout the region with roughly 30cm falling in the Selkirks and close to double that in some parts of the Monashees. This new storm slab will increase in reactivity and destructive potential as it deepens or in areas where it has been redistributed and compressed by wind. The new snow covers a variety of old surfaces which include: old wind slabs at higher elevations, melt-freeze crusts on previously sun-exposed slopes and touchy surface hoar in sheltered terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid snowpack you may find a layer of surface hoar buried in mid-November ranging from 90cm-130cm in depth. An October crust/facet combo exists near the base of the snowpack. The most likely place you'd trigger this layer is on smooth, planar, high north facing slopes, especially if the snowpack is unusually shallow in that area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These persistent layers are slowly becoming more difficult to trigger. However, they have the potential to cause large and destructive avalanches, and may 'wake-up' with the increased load of the new snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wide variations in snowpack depth and structure exist throughout the region. The region has been mostly below the threshold for avalanches up to this point.  Data indicates snow amounts are well below the seasonal average, but the exception may be isolated wind loaded pockets at tree line or higher elevations. Slopes with enough snow to ride may be the ones most likely to avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snowpack depths are being reported across the region but typically 30-50 cm of storm snow has fallen on approximately 1m of old, well-settled snow. The new storm slab will increase in reactivity and destructive potential as it deepens or in areas where it has been redistributed and compressed by wind. The storm slabs are forming over a variety of old snow surfaces including (1) winds slabs and wind scoured areas in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline, (2) sun crusts on steep south facing slopes, and (3) surface hoar in sheltered areas around treeline elevation and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are still two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. While these layers have recently become dormant, the weight of the new storm snow may cause these layers to reactivate in isolated areas causing large, destructive avalanches. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects (likely east and west as well). The early November surface hoar appears to be spotty and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Variable snowpack depths are being reported across the region but typically 30-50 cm of storm snow has fallen on approximately 1m of old, well-settled snow. The new storm slab will increase in reactivity and destructive potential as it deepens or in areas where it has been redistributed and compressed by wind. The storm slabs are forming over a variety of old snow surfaces including (1) winds slabs and wind scoured areas in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline, (2) sun crusts on steep south facing slopes, and (3) surface hoar in sheltered areas around treeline elevation and below. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are still two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. While these layers have recently become dormant, the weight of the new storm snow may cause these layers to reactivate in isolated areas causing large, destructive avalanches. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects (likely east and west as well). The early November surface hoar appears to be spotty and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Precipitation with high winds has produced wind slabs on east and north east lee slopes at tree line and above.. Rain at lower elevations has saturated the lower snowpack below tree line. Early season reports indicated a poorly-bonded layer 40 cm from the surface and a crust/facet layer near the ground. These layers may be gaining strength, but could become quite reactive with the new snow loading. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecast new snow and strong Westerly winds are expected to develop a new storm slab above the existing shallow weak snowpack. The new storm slab may not bond well to the old surface weak layers of crusts, wind slabs, and surface hoar. We expect new storm snow amounts to vary across the region due to the fast moving nature of the system from West to East.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New storm slabs are developing above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects and melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. The new snow may not bond well to these old weak surface layers. There are some reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October. We do not know the extent of this layer with respect to aspect and areas within the region. In other regions of the interior mountains, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The 20-40 cm of new storm snow has settled into a cohesive slab above recent weak surface layers of sugary facetted crystals, surface hoar, and melt/freeze crusts. Snow profile tests are producing easy sudden planar shears (the isolated block of new snow &quot;pops&quot; off of the old surface with little force applied). As the new storm slab continues to develop, it may release naturally or continue to release with light additional loads like skiers/riders.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm slabs are developing above weak surface layers of facetted crystals and melt/freeze crusts. These recently buried weak layers may not support the new load of storm snow that is forecast. The deeply buried early season crust continues to be a concern. There have been reports of weak sugary crystals at the crust interface that may create an easy sliding surface and allow for wide propagations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Little change over the past 24hrs...  Surface hoar up to 15mm can be found below 2200m and a thin MFC is being observed on steep solar aspects up to 2600m.  These two layers will become persistent weak layers once the new snow arrives. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow distribution varies greatly across the region but average depth of snow at treeline is approximately 60-80cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm over the weekend deposited 10-20cm of storm snow in the northern portion of the region while the southern reaches of the forecast region received 30-50cm. These storm slabs are sitting on-top of weak surface layers of facetted crystals and melt/freeze crusts. In areas that received more snow, there is likely a cohesive storm slab developing that may overload these weak layers or may make them primed for human triggering. To complicate the scenario, north winds in the forecast will likely deposit wind slabs on south facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The deeply buried early season crust near the base of the snowpack continues to be a concern. There have been reports of weak sugary crystals at the crust interface that may create an easy sliding surface and allow for wide propagations. The weight of new snow may be enough to 'wake up' these deeper layers. If so, they have the potential to produce large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Approximately 60cm of unconsolidated storm snow fell over the weekend and overlies a well-settled snowpack that is 150cm in depth at treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slabs have buried a plethora of old snow surfaces including melt-freeze crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas at lower alpine and treeline elevations. These well preserved weaknesses are likely to persist for some time and are currently primed for rider triggering. This scenario is complicated by a shift in wind pattern where northerly winds have deposited fresh wind slabs on south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are still two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack: the mid November surface hoar is down roughly 80-100cm and the October rain crust is near the ground. The October crust can be found most prevalent in the alpine on north aspects. The early November surface hoar appears to be spotty and drainage specific. The weight of the new snow is likely testing these layers currently and in specific areas it may cause these layers to be reactivate producing large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region. There is about 70cm of snow at 1600m in the Duffy Lake area. Due to this weekend's storm there is likely more than double that at the same elevation in the Coquihalla area. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate to locally heavy (in the south) accumulations now overlie a generally well settled snowpack. In exposed terrain this new snow will likely exist as a wind slab, especially with strong northerly winds forecast for the next few days. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Closer to the base of the snowpack you may find a few crusts which may have associated facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, although they might be worth exploring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region although reports suggest there is an average of about 120cm of snow at upper treeline elevations. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">On the surface 25-45cm of new snow now overlies a generally well settled snowpack. This new snow is likely to exist as a wind slab in exposed high elevation terrain. Rain at lower elevations has continued to saturate what little snow there is. A few crusts can be found deeper in the snowpack which may have associated facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, although they might be worth exploring.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A potent storm slab now exists throughout the region and is ripe for rider triggering at all elevation bands. Recent accumulations are likely approaching 70cm in some areas. This new snow covers a complex variety of old surfaces which include melt-freeze crusts on previously sun-exposed slopes and touchy surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain. These weaknesses are likely to persist for some time after the storm ends with potential for large and destructive avalanches. To add to the complexity of the current scenario, northerly winds have created a reverse loading pattern forming new windslabs on south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid snowpack you may find a layer of surface hoar or crust buried in mid-November which sits about 60cm above the ground. Near the base of the snowpack you'll find the October crust/facet combo. The most likely place you'd trigger this layer is on smooth, planar, high north facing slopes, especially if the snowpack is unusually shallow in that area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These persistent layers are slowly becoming more difficult to trigger. However, they have the potential to cause very large and destructive avalanches, and may 'wake-up' with the increased load of the new snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 1 and 5cm of new snow depending on elevation. Strong winds are re-locating the new snow to SE, S and SW aspects, and thin wind slabs are developing. Overall the snowpack remains shallow and weak.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Dribs and drabs of recent snowfall have added to a slowly developing base at high mountain top elevations. At lower elevations rain has continued to saturate what little snow there is.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is below threshold for avalanche activity in most areas as many slopes need at least 1 metre of snow before ground roughness is buried enough for avalanches to occur.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The new storm slab is about 40-60 cm deep depending on where you are in the region. This storm slab has been reported to be releasing naturally during the storm, and is very touchy to light triggers like skiers/riders. Storm slabs are sitting above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects and melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. There are some reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October. We do not know the extent of this layer with respect to aspect and areas within the region. In other regions of the interior mountains, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm has developed a slab up to 50 cm deep that is sitting above recent weak surface layers of sugary facetted crystals, surface hoar, and melt/freeze crusts. Snow profile tests are producing easy sudden planar shears (the isolated block of new snow &quot;pops&quot; off of the old surface with little force applied). As the new storm slab continues to develop, it may release naturally or continue to release with light additional loads like skiers/riders. Below treeline the new storm slab is not bonding well to the crust resulting in very touchy triggering conditions.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> A storm slab has developed above the existing shallow weak snowpack. We don't know how deep the storm slab is due to a lack of observations from the field. I expect that there is 10-40 cm of new snow depending on your location in the region. This variability is due to the convective nature of the recent storm. The new storm slab is not expected to bond well to the old surface weak layers of crusts, wind slabs, and surface hoar. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Observations from the region are very limited. One recent report from the Ashman Ridge area southwest of Smithers indicates that snowpack depths range from 80-160 cm near treeline. There is around 40 cm of new storm snow that is bonding poorly to the underlying surface. Recent southerly winds have formed touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at treeline and above. Previous warm temperatures and rain saturated the snowpack below 1200 m and created a rain crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The average snowpack depth in the region is around 60-90 cm at 1200-1400 m elevation. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Variable snowpack depths are being reported across the region but typically 30-60 cm of storm snow has fallen on approximately 1m of old, well-settled snow. The new storm slab will increase in reactivity and destructive potential as it deepens or in areas where it has been redistributed and compressed by wind. The storm slabs overlay a variety of old snow surfaces including (1) winds slabs and wind scoured areas in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline, (2) sun crusts on steep south facing slopes, and (3) surface hoar in sheltered areas around treeline elevation and below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are still two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar is down roughly half way (70-90cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. While these layers have recently become dormant, the weight of the new storm snow may cause these layers to reactivate in isolated areas causing large, destructive avalanches. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects (likely east and west as well). The early November surface hoar appears to be spotty and drainage specific.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 40 cm of recent storm snow has fallen in some areas. This new snow may not be bonding well to the previous snow surface. Winds during the recent storms produced wind slabs on east and north east lee slopes at tree line and above. Expect some reverse loading this week as the outflow winds pick up, particularly near the coast. Rain at lower elevations saturated the lower snowpack below tree line, which should freeze pretty solid as temperatures plummet this week. Average snowpack depths near treeline are around100 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Variable snowpack depths are being reported across the region but typically 30-50 cm of storm snow fell last weekend on approximately 1m of old, well-settled snow. The storm slabs overlay a variety of old snow surfaces including (1) winds slabs and wind scoured areas in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline, (2) sun crusts on steep south facing slopes, and (3) surface hoar in sheltered areas around treeline elevation and below. Northerly winds on Monday and Tuesday have likely redistributed snow and created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain (South and West facing).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are still two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. While these layers have recently become dormant, the weight of the new storm snow may cause these layers to reactivate in isolated areas causing large, destructive avalanches. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects (likely east and west as well). The early November surface hoar appears to be spotty and drainage specific.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 10cm of new snow at Treeline and only 1cm new at valley bottom. Snowpack facetting with cold temperatures. Reverse wind-loading evident and suspect thin wind slab formation on W through SE aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A storm slab has developed above the existing shallow weak snowpack. We don't know how deep the storm slab is due to a lack of observations from the field. I expect that there is 10-40 cm of new snow depending on your location in the region. This variability is due to the convective nature of the recent storm. The new storm slab is not expected to bond well to the old surface weak layers of crusts, wind slabs, and surface hoar. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The new storm slab is about 40-70 cm deep depending on where you are in the region. Storm slabs are sitting above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects and melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. In some parts of the region, the storm slab may not be well consolidated and may not result in shears from snow-pit tests. There are some reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm has developed a slab up to 70 cm deep that is sitting above recent weak surface layers of sugary facetted crystals, surface hoar, and melt/freeze crusts. Reports from the field suggest that the storm slab has become more stubborn to trigger. Some large settlements of the storm slab continue to be heard (whumpfs). </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region although reports suggest there is an average of about 120cm of snow at upper treeline elevations. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The 25-45cm of snow that fell on the weekend is likely bonding well to old surfaces, but has been redistributed by strong northerly winds. This reverse loading pattern has created new windslabs on south-facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found deeper in the snowpack which may have associated facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, although they might be worth exploring.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region. There is about 70cm of snow at 1600m in the Duffy Lake area. Due to this weekend's storm there is likely more than double that at the same elevation in the Coquihalla area. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate to locally heavy (in the south) accumulations now overlie a generally well settled snowpack. Due to more recent northerly winds, much of this new snow may have been shifted into new windslabs on south-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Closer to the base of the snowpack you may find a few crusts which may have associated facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, although they might be worth exploring. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Dribs and drabs of recent moist snow have added to a slowly developing base at high mountain top elevations. At lower elevations rain has saturated what little snow there is. With the more recent cooling previously moist or wet surfaces have now become a hard crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is generally below threshold for avalanche activity as many slopes need at least 1 metre of snow before ground roughness is buried enough for avalanches to occur.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow distribution varies greatly across the region but average depth of snow at treeline is approximately 60-110cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The southern portion of the region received substantially more snow (40-70cm) than the north in the past storm. The storm slab is sitting on top of various weak layers; surface hoar on sheltered, shaded slopes and a melt-freeze crusts on south facing slopes. In the south Purcells, there have been reports of preserved surface hoar crystals overlying a melt-freeze crust below treeline around 1500m. In this location, 70cm overlies this weak layer which produced very easy results in stability tests. Reports are sparse, but it is likely this same layer exists in sheltered locations in the alpine and at treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper, the lower snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak facetted crystals. The weight of new snow may be currently 'testing' these deeper layers and the additional load of a rider (particularly in shallow snowpack areas) may just be enough to tip the scale. If so, persistent slabs have the potential to produce large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 40 cm of recent storm snow has fallen in some areas. This new snow may not bond well initially to the previous snow surface, especially where it sits on a crust. Northerly outflow winds picked up on Monday forming dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Rain at lower elevations (below 1000-1200 m) last week saturated the lower snowpack forming a solid rain crust, now down up to 40 cm depending on elevation. Average snowpack depths near treeline are around 100 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Observations from the region are very limited. One recent report from the Ashman Ridge area southwest of Smithers indicates that snowpack depths range from 80-160 cm near treeline. There is around 40 cm of new storm snow that is bonding poorly to the underlying surface. Northerly outflow winds have likely produced new wind slabs in exposed lee terrain, while previous southerly winds formed wind slabs in north and east facing terrain on the weekend. Previous warm temperatures and rain saturated the snowpack below 1200 m and created a rain crust, which is now buried by up to 40 cm depending on elevation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The average snowpack depth in the region is around 60-90 cm at 1200-1400 m elevation. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm over the weekend deposited 50-60cm of new snow at treeline elevations where the average depth of snow now totals 150cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The settling storm slabs overlie a plethora of old snow surfaces including melt-freeze crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas at lower alpine and treeline elevations. These well preserved weaknesses are likely to persist for some time and are currently primed for rider triggering. This scenario is complicated by a shift in wind pattern where strong northerly winds have deposited fresh wind slabs on south facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are still two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack: the mid November surface hoar is down roughly 80-100cm and the October rain crust is near the ground. The October crust can be found most prevalent in the alpine on north aspects. The early November surface hoar appears to be spotty and drainage specific. The weight of the new snow could reactivate these deeper layers. If so, the likely result will be large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A potent storm slab now exists throughout the region and is ripe for rider triggering at all elevation bands. In deeper snowpack areas this new slab is about 60cm deep and covers a complex variety of old surfaces which include melt-freeze crusts on previously sun-exposed slopes and touchy surface hoar crystals in sheltered terrain. These weaknesses are likely to persist for some time with potential for large and destructive avalanches. To add to the complexity of the current scenario, east/northeasterly winds are responsible for new windslabs on south and west facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid snowpack you may find a layer of surface hoar or a crust buried in mid-November which sits about 60cm above the ground. Near the base of the snowpack you'll find the October crust/facet combo. The most likely place you'd trigger this layer is on smooth, planar, high north facing slopes, especially if the snowpack is unusually shallow in that area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">These persistent layers are slowly becoming more difficult to trigger. However, they have the potential to cause very large and destructive avalanches, and may 'wake-up' with the increased load of the new snow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the South coast inland area. Whistler reporting 180 cm in the alpine and 80 cm at the toe of the glaciers. Coquihalla  received 70 to 80cm in the last storm event.  Winds from the SW during the storm shifted to N-NE with the arrival of the arctic outflow and have produced some wind slabs on lee slopes. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity and solid.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate to locally heavy (in the south) accumulations now overlie a generally well settled snowpack. A few crusts with faceting  may be found near the base of the snowpack, especially at higher higher elevations. No observations of avalanches on these crust/facet layers have been reported up to this time, but they are worth keeping an eye on. Expect surface facetting with the cold temps, and surface hoar on N. slopes protected from the wind.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Small amounts of recent snow have added to a slowly developing base at high elevations only. Rain has saturated the small amounts of snow at lower elevations and is now frozen solid.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack is below threshold for avalanche activity in most areas as many slopes need at least 1 metre of snow before ground roughness is buried enough for avalanches to occur.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region, though reports suggest there is an average of about 120cm of snow at tree line elevations. Terrain below treeline is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The 25-45cm of snow that fell on the weekend should be bonding well to old surfaces, but has been redistributed by strong northerly winds. This reverse loading pattern has created new windslabs on south-facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Crusts have been found deeper in the snowpack with facets at higher elevations. Observers are not identifying any of these as cause for concern at this time, but worth remembering as the season develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The previous storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent and will continue to create avalanche problems in areas with enough overlying snow. The current cold temperatures will contribute to the persistence of this weak layer.  Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack but these have recently become inactive: the early November surface hoar is roughly 60cm above the ground and the October rain crust is at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow depths varies greatly across the region and average 70-110cm at treeline. The southern portion of the region received substantially more new snow (up to 70cm ) compared to the northern portion (as little as 10cm).  The recent storm snow is sitting on top of the late-November interface which may consist of surface hoar on sheltered/shaded slopes, a melt-freeze crust on south facing slopes, or a combination of both in isolated locations.&nbsp; </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas.  </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of new snow over the late-November interface which has created a persistent slab problem.&nbsp; </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The current cold temperatures will contribute to the persistence of the late-November weak layer.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak faceted crystals.&nbsp; While many areas did not receive enough new snow to create a new slab problem on top of the late-November interface, there are likely isolated areas where a persistent slab does exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm has developed a slab up to 70 cm deep that is sitting above recent weak surface layers of sugary facetted crystals, surface hoar, and melt/freeze crusts. Reports from the field suggest that the storm slab has become more stubborn to trigger.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A storm slab has developed above the existing shallow weak snowpack. We don't know how deep the storm slab is due to a lack of observations from the field. I expect that there is 10-40 cm of new snow depending on your location in the region. This variability is due to the convective nature of the recent storm. The new storm slab is not expected to bond well to the old surface weak layers of crusts, wind slabs, and surface hoar. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 40 cm of recent storm snow may still need some time to bond to the previous snow surface, especially where it sits on a crust. In the Shames area on Sunday a layer of preserved stellars were giving easy to moderate but sudden planar compression test results. Northerly outflow winds are forming fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Below approximately 1000m surface hoar is growing on sheltered slopes, while surface snow on steep sun-exposed slopes is becoming moist with daytime warming. Average snowpack depths near treeline are around a metre with the bottom half being a crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered areas and/or sun crust on steep south facing slopes. There are two distinct weaknesses within the mid and lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. While these layers have recently become dormant, any additional load from new snow, wind-loading and/or rain may cause these layers to reactivate in isolated areas causing large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 40 cm of recent storm snow may still need some time to bond to the previous snow surface. Northerly outflow winds are likely forming fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Below approximately 1000m surface hoar is growing on sheltered slopes, while surface snow on steep sun-exposed slopes is becoming moist with daytime warming. Average snowpack depths near treeline are variable but around a metre with the bottom half being a crust below 1200m elevation.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface faceting continues and limited surface hoar growth in isolated areas. Snowpack continues to weaken.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The previous storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent and will continue to create avalanche problems in areas with enough overlying snow. The current cold temperatures will contribute to the persistence of this weak layer. Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack but these have recently become inactive: the early November surface hoar is roughly 60cm above the ground and the October rain crust is at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The new storm slab is about 40-70 cm deep depending on where you are in the region. Storm slabs are sitting above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects and melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. In some parts of the region, the storm slab may not be well consolidated and may not result in shears from snow-pit tests. There are some reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow is settling and gaining strength, however weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. In the Shames area on Sunday a layer of preserved stellars at this interface was giving easy to moderate, but sudden planar compression test results. More recently, compression tests on a wind-loaded slope gave easy sudden collapse results in a layer of soft snow under a hard wind slab. Snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable but around a metre in sheltered areas. The lower snowpack is a series of crusts, some of which are laminated with facets, particularly in shallower areas. Facets under the uppermost crust, down approximately 50cm, gave hard sudden collapse compression test results in the Shames area on Sunday. Surface hoar is growing on sheltered slopes, and sun crusts may be forming on steep, low-elevation south aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow is settling and gaining strength, however weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. In the Ashman Ridge area on Sunday, this interface gave easy compression test results</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">. Northerly outflow winds are likely forming fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth varies greatly across the region, averaging 70-110cm at treeline. The southern portion of the region received substantially more new snow (up to 70cm ) compared to the northern portion (as little as 10cm). The recent storm snow is sitting on top of the late-November interface which may consist of surface hoar on sheltered/shaded slopes, a melt-freeze crust on south facing slopes, or a combination of both in isolated locations. Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of new snow over the late-November interface which has created a persistent slab problem. The current cold temperatures will contribute to the persistence of the late-November weak layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak faceted crystals. While many areas did not receive enough new snow to create a new slab problem on top of the late-November interface, there are likely isolated areas where a persistent slab does exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The previous storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent and will continue to create avalanche problems in areas with enough overlying snow. The current cold temperatures will contribute to the persistence of this weak layer. Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack but these have recently become inactive: the early November surface hoar is roughly 60cm above the ground and the October rain crust is at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snowpack on the North Shore is almost non existant at lower elevations. What little snow there is has been saturated by rain and is now frozen solid .Small amounts of precipitation have added to the snowpack at higher elevations bring the total to around 50cm at 1500 metres. The snowpack is below threshold for avalanche activity in most areas as slopes typically need at least 1 metre of snow before ground roughness is buried enough for avalanches to occur.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region. Reports suggest there is 120 to 150cm of snow at tree line elevations. Terrain below tree line is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The 25-45cm of snow that fell during the last storm is bonding to old surfaces, though much of it has been redistributed by strong northerly winds. Wind slabs are a concern on south-facing terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are crusts buried deeper in the snowpack with facets at higher elevations. Worth looking for it if you are digging a pit.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the south coast inland area. Whistler reporting 180 cm in the alpine and 80 cm at the toe of the glaciers. Coquihalla received 70 to 80cm in the last storm event and reporting 140cm at 1660 M. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Winds from the SW during the storm shifted to N-NE with the arrival of the arctic outflow and have produced wind slabs on lee slopes. North winds continue to scour the snow pack at ridge tops and above. Surface hoar is growing in protected locations near tree line and surface facetting has been reported in Manning park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Terrain below tree line is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity and solid.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate to locally heavy (in the south) accumulations now overlie a generally well settled snowpack. A few crusts with faceting may be found near the base of the snowpack, especially at higher higher elevations. No observations of avalanches on these crust/facet layers have been reported up to this time, but they are worth keeping an eye on. Expect surface facetting with the cold temps, and surface hoar on N. slopes protected from the wind.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The limited information we have from this regions suggests treeline snowpack depths vary from around 60 cm to 120 cm depending on location. Anywhere from 40 to 70 cm new snow fell with the most recent storm. Initially temperatures were relatively warm, then they cooled dramatically. As a result, the new storm snow is generally &quot;right-side-up&quot;, meaning lower density snow sits above denser snow below. Strong northerly winds following the storm created wind slabs on exposed southern slopes. One recent reports has suggested it is becoming more difficult to trigger these wind slabs. While this is consistent with what we commonly see when the wind subsides and temperatures dive into the -20's, the lack of observations would make me approach steep, wind loaded terrain with a lot of caution right now. At or near the base of the snowpack, I suspect you will find sugary facets. The chance of triggering this layer is quite small under the current conditions, but if it was to happen, it would most likely be on a steep, convex slope with a thin snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar continues to grow in valley bottom. The surface snow continues to facet and lose even more strength. Windslabs at TL &amp; ALP elevations are expected to lose some strength as well, but they still remain an avalanche concern. Travel is pretty tough unless on an existing trail.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered areas and/or sun crust on steep south facing slopes. In some neighbouring areas the buried surface hoar is giving easy to moderate sudden planar compression test results, while elsewhere the storm snow has yet to settle into a sufficiently cohesive slab. There are two distinct weaknesses within the mid and lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar/facet/crust interface is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. Recent snowpack tests gave easy results on the early November mid-pack interface where it was found to be facets under a crust. Cold clear weather is likely promoting surface hoar growth and near surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A dusting of new snow covers 40-70 cm of previous storm snow. Storm slabs are sitting above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects and melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. In some parts of the region, the storm slab may not be well consolidated and may not result in shears from snow-pit tests. Widespread whumpfing was observed near Nelson from treeline elevations all the way to valley bottom. There are some reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface facetting continues and new surface hoar growth is likely in some areas. This will be something to watch when the weather pattern finally changes. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The previous storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent and will continue to create avalanche problems in areas with enough overlying snow. The current cold temperatures will contribute to the persistence of this weak layer. Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two layers of concern within the mid/lower snowpack but these have recently become inactive: the early November surface hoar is roughly 60cm above the ground and the October rain crust is at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths in this regions are around 150 cm, although in the alpine, strong winds have scoured some areas and deposited thick wind slabs in others. Around 70 cm new snow fell with the most recent storm. Initially temperatures were relatively warm, then they cooled dramatically. As a result, the new storm snow is generally &quot;right-side-up&quot;, meaning lower density snow sits above denser snow below. Strong northerly winds following the storm creating wind slabs on exposed southern slopes. Recent reports suggest it is becoming more difficult to trigger these wind slabs, but a size 2 avalanche was observed on Wednesday on a steep SE aspect near a ridgeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The pattern of the past few days continued today. Surface hoar continued to grow overnight and facetting continued throughout the snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. Recent reports suggest this interface is still giving easy compression test results and remains a concern with wind slabs. The lower snowpack is a series of crusts, some of which are laminated with facets, particularly in shallower areas. Facets under the uppermost crust, down approximately 50cm, gave hard sudden collapse compression test results in the Shames area on Sunday. Recent cold and clear weather is promoting surface hoar formation and near-surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered areas and/or sun crust on steep south facing slopes. In some neighbouring areas the buried surface hoar is giving easy to moderate sudden planar compression test results, while elsewhere the storm snow has yet to settle into a sufficiently cohesive slab. There are two distinct weaknesses within the mid and lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar/facet/crust interface is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. Recent snowpack tests gave easy results on the early November mid-pack interface where it was found to be facets under a crust. Cold clear weather is likely promoting surface hoar growth and near surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">30-60 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered areas and/or sun crust on steep south facing slopes. In some areas the buried surface hoar is giving easy to moderate sudden planar compression test results, while elsewhere the storm snow has yet to settle into a sufficiently cohesive slab. There are two distinct weaknesses within the mid and lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar/facet/crust interface is roughly 60cm off  the ground and the October rain crust is near the ground. Recent snowpack tests gave easy results on the early November mid-pack interface where it was found to be facets under a crust. Cold clear weather is likely promoting surface hoar growth and near surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the south coast inland area. Whistler reporting 180 cm in the alpine and 80 cm at the toe of the glaciers. Coquihalla received 70 to 80cm in the last storm event and reporting 140cm at 1660 M. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">N-NE arctic outflow winds have scoured north slopes and deposited wind slabs on S-SW slopes at treed line and above . North winds continue to scour the snow pack at ridge tops and above. Surface hoar is growing in protected locations near tree line and surface facetting has been reported in Manning park.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Terrain below tree line is reported to be mostly below threshold for avalanche activity and solid.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate to locally heavy (in the south) accumulations now overlie a generally well settled snowpack. A few crusts with faceting may be found near the base of the snowpack, especially at higher higher elevations. No observations of avalanches on these crust/facet layers have been reported up to this time, but they are worth keeping an eye on. Expect surface facetting with the cold temps, and surface hoar on N. slopes protected from the wind.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow covers 40-70 cm of previous storm snow. Storm slabs are sitting above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects with melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm slab is not well consolidated in many parts of the region and may be not produce shears in snow pit tests. Widespread whumpfing has been observed near Nelson from treeline elevations all the way to valley bottom. There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface facetting continues and new surface hoar growth is being reported in some areas. This will be something to watch when the weather pattern finally changes. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region with reports of up to 150cm of snow at some tree line elevations. Terrain below tree line is mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snow that fell during the last storm will slowly bond to old surfaces, but this bonding is taking place at a slower than normal rate due to the cold temperatures. Much of the last storm snow has been redistributed by strong northerly winds at upper elevations. Wind slabs are a cause for concern on south-facing terrain. Surface and shallow snowpack facetting is taking place in some higher locations. Many alpine ridge tops have been scoured by the NE winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are crusts buried deeper in the snowpack with facets at higher elevations. Worth looking for it if you are digging a pit.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The previous storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Some buried surface hoar has been reported on south aspect slopes near Revelstoke. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become a more dangerous problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depth varies greatly across the region, averaging 70-110cm at treeline. The southern portion of the region received substantially more new snow (up to 70cm ) compared to the northern portion (as little as 10cm). The recent storm snow is sitting on top of the late-November interface which may consist of surface hoar on sheltered/shaded slopes, a melt-freeze crust on south facing slopes, or a combination of both in isolated locations. Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of new snow over the late-November interface which has created a persistent slab problem. Expect the reactivity of this layer to increase when we eventually get warmer temperatures and new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak faceted crystals. While many areas did not receive enough new snow to create a new slab problem on top of the late-November interface, there are likely isolated areas where a persistent slab does exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths in this regions are around 150 cm, although in the alpine, strong winds have scoured some areas and deposited thick wind slabs in others. Around 70 cm new snow fell with the most recent storm. Initially temperatures were relatively warm, then they cooled dramatically. As a result, the new storm snow is generally &quot;right-side-up&quot;, meaning lower density snow sits above denser snow below. Surface hoar likely exists below the most recent storm snow, although in most areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches to form on this layer. Strong northerly winds following the storm creating wind slabs on exposed southern slopes. Recent reports suggest it is becoming more difficult to trigger these wind slabs, but a size 2 avalanche was observed on Wednesday on a steep SE aspect near a ridgeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The limited information we have from this regions suggests treeline snowpack depths vary from 30 cm to 120 cm. Anywhere from 20 to 70 cm new snow fell with the most recent storm. Initially temperatures were relatively warm, then they cooled dramatically. As a result, the new storm snow is generally &quot;right-side-up&quot;, meaning lower density snow sits above denser snow below. Large surface hoar crystals were buried by the recent storm snow near Elkford and likely other parts too. Strong northerly winds following the storm created wind slabs on exposed southern slopes. Recent reports suggest it is becoming more difficult to trigger these wind slabs. While this is consistent with what we commonly see when the wind subsides and temperatures dive into the -20's, the lack of observations would make me approach steep, wind loaded terrain with a lot of caution right now. At or near the base of the snowpack, I suspect you will find sugary facets, which will surely be growing with the extremely cold temperatures. The chance of triggering this layer is quite small under the current conditions, but if it was to happen, it would most likely be on a steep, convex slope with a thin snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. In the Ashman Ridge area on Sunday, this interface gave easy compression test results</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">. Northerly outflow winds are likely forming fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack on the North Shore is almost non existent at lower elevations. What little snow there is has been saturated by rain and is now frozen solid .Small amounts of precipitation have added to the snowpack at higher elevations bring the total to around 50cm at 1500 metres. The snowpack is below threshold for avalanche activity in most areas as slopes typically need at least 1 metre of snow before ground roughness is buried enough for avalanches to occur.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No dramatic change here. In fact there's no change at all. Faceting is ruling the snow pack right now thats for sure! There has very little settlement, so atleast the snow depth is holding steady. Winds have been light, but expect some snow to be blowing around at ridge top as the weather changes. The fetches (windward side of slopes) are still covered in snow, so there is snow available for transport.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered areas and/or sun crust on steep south facing slopes. In some neighbouring areas the buried surface hoar is giving easy to moderate sudden planar compression test results, while elsewhere the storm snow has yet to settle into a sufficiently cohesive slab. There are two distinct weaknesses within the mid and lower snowpack: the early November surface hoar/facet/crust interface is down roughly half way (50-60cm) and the October rain crust is near the ground. Recent snowpack tests gave easy results on the early November mid-pack interface where it was found to be facets under a crust. Cold clear weather is likely promoting surface hoar growth and near surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The old storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Some buried surface hoar has been reported on south aspect slopes near Revelstoke. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become a more dangerous problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The South Rockies Field Team are back at it, Yeah! </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 80 - 120 cm. Earlier this week the region received storm snow amounts of up to 70 cm. Strong ridgetop winds from the N-NE has redistributed snow onto S-SW aspects, creating reverse loaded slopes. Widespread wind effect is noticeable in the alpine and at treeline, but reports suggest they are stubborn to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the recent storm snow down 30-40 cm a surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface. Snowpack testing showed easy results and some </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/whumpf.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">whumphing </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">(failure of a weak layer below your feet). If you're seeing or feeling this, consider it a direct indicator of a buried weakness below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, I suspect you will find sugary facets, which will surely be growing with the extremely cold temperatures. The chance of triggering this layer is quite small under the current conditions, but if it was to happen, it would most likely be on a steep, convex slope with a thin snowpack.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline vary across the region, averaging 70-110 cm. In the Southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of new snow over the late-November surface hoar/ crust/ facet interface that may be reactive, especially in sheltered northerly aspects where the surface hoar is better preserved.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak faceted crystals above and below the crust. This may be reactive from thin spot triggers, or larger triggers (sledder getting air time and dropping onto the suspect slope below). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects on open slopes and behind terrain features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">While many areas did not receive enough new snow to create a new slab problem on top of these weak layers, there are likely areas where a persistent slab does exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depths are highly variable throughout the region with reports of up to 150cm of snow at some tree line elevations. Terrain below tree line is mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snow that fell during the last storm will slowly bond to old surfaces. Much of the last storm snow has been redistributed by strong northerly winds at upper elevations. Wind slabs are a cause for concern on lee terrain. Surface and shallow snowpack facetting is taking place in some higher locations. Many alpine ridge tops have been scoured by the recent NE winds.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are crusts buried deeper in the snowpack with facets at higher elevations. Worth looking for it if you are digging a pit.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the south coast inland area. Reports from the Cascades show 160cm @ 2000 metres, but the Duffey lake has only 54 cm at 1890 m.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow N winds continue to scour north slopes and deposit wind slabs on S-SW slopes at tree line and above . Surface hoar is growing in protected locations near tree line and reports on Friday indicate the storm snow is faceting down to 30 cm from the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Terrain below tree line is mostly below threshold for avalanche activity and solid. A few crusts with faceting may be found near the base of the snowpack, especially at higher higher elevations. No observations of avalanches on these crust/facet layers have been reported up to this time, but they are worth keeping an eye on. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at treeline in this region are near 140 cm. In the alpine, strong winds have scoured some areas and deposited thick wind slabs in others. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 70 cm of snow fell with the storm earlier this week. 50 cm below the new snow a surface hoar layer can be found, and is reported to be widespread below 1500 m and sitting on a old crust. Earlier this week snowpack tests showed easy-moderate sudden planar shears on this layer. This layer seems to be less reactive. However, it may be more reactive in areas that have seen wind effect that has stiffened the slab above it. Its important to dig down and test weak layers, especially if you have uncertainties in your local riding area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. Recent reports suggest this interface is still giving easy compression test results and remains a concern with wind slabs. The lower snowpack is a series of crusts, some of which are laminated with facets, particularly in shallower areas. Facets under the uppermost crust, down approximately 50cm, gave hard sudden collapse compression test results in the Shames area on Sunday. Recent cold and clear weather is promoting surface hoar formation and near-surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. In the Ashman Ridge area on Sunday, this interface gave easy compression test results</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">. Northerly outflow winds are likely forming fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The old storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Some buried surface hoar has been reported on south aspect slopes near Revelstoke. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become a more dangerous problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">What little snow there is on the North Shore has been saturated by the rain and is frozen solid. Small amounts of precipitation have added to the snowpack at higher elevations to bring the total to around 50cm at select locations around 1500 metres. Below tree line the snowpack is below the  threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind slabs are sitting above recently buried weak layers of surface hoar on North aspects with melt/freeze crusts on solar aspects. The storm slab is still producing moderate shears on the surface hoar between 40 and 50 cm down. This slab is not well consolidated in many parts of the region and may not produce shears in snow pit tests. Widespread whumpfing has been observed in the Nelson area from tree line elevations all the way to valley bottom. There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface facetting continues and new surface hoar growth is being reported in some areas. This will be something to watch when the weather pattern finally changes. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The facetting continues.  Strong temperature gradient turning our &quot;snowpack&quot; into weak facetted grains.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. At ridgetop (above 1400 m) there could be as much as 50 cm of old snow, but lower elevations are either bare or have patchy snow cover. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades  but only 50 cm along the Duffy.  Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow winds have redistributed the snows that fell last week forming wind slabs on S to SW slopes at treeline and in the alpine.  Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. There haven't been any reports of avalanches on these layers, but they're worth looking for it if you dig a pit.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. In the Ashman Ridge area on Sunday, this interface gave easy compression test results</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">. Northerly outflow winds are likely forming fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and scouring windward terrain. Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent cold temperatures have driven faceting in the upper snowpack and surface hoar growth is being reported in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow that fell last week is sitting above a buried weak layer of surface hoar found on north facing slopes and a crust on steep solar aspects. In many places the upper snowpack has not yet settled into a slab. However, in open areas this snow has be redistributed by the recent north to east winds forming windslabs at ridge-top and in cross loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The old storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Some buried surface hoar has been reported on south aspect slopes near Revelstoke. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become a more dangerous problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely to be highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">30-50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered areas and/or sun crust on steep south facing slopes. In many areas the storm snow has yet to settle into a sufficiently cohesive slab. However, when temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this crust/surface hoar interface to become a more dangerous problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are typically 100-140 cm at treeline elevation. The old storm snow (~30-60cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Some buried surface hoar has been reported on south aspect slopes near Revelstoke. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become a more dangerous problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. While these layers have recently become inactive, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack. The October crust can be found in the alpine on north aspects and the early November surface hoar appears to be isolated and drainage specific.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong NE winds after the storm have caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects on open slopes and behind terrain features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> development and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">facetting </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">exists. Snowpack depths at treeline vary across the region, averaging 70-110 cm. In the Southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of new snow over the late-November surface hoar/ crust/ facet interface that may be reactive, especially in sheltered northerly aspects where the surface hoar was better preserved.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak faceted crystals above and below the crust. This persistent slab may be stubborn to trigger, but if triggered have high consequences.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">facetting </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">continues to develop. Snowpack depths at treeline in this region are near 140 cm. In the alpine, strong winds have scoured some areas and deposited thick wind slabs in others.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 50 cm below the new snow a surface hoar layer can be found, and is reported to be widespread below 1500 m and sitting on a old crust. Snowpack tests have showed easy-moderate sudden planar shears on this layer. This layer seems to be becoming less reactive. However, it may be more reactive in areas that have seen wind effect and a stiffened slab above it. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is important to dig down and test weak layers, especially if you have uncertainties in your local riding area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades&nbsp; but 50 cm along the Duffy.&nbsp; Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow winds have redistributed the snows that fell last week forming wind slabs on S to SW slopes at treeline and in the alpine.&nbsp;  Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. There haven’t been any reports of avalanches on these layers, but they're worth looking for it if you dig a pit.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still need time to heal. Recent reports suggest this interface is still giving easy compression test results and remains a concern with wind slabs. The lower snowpack is a series of crusts, some of which are laminated with facets, particularly in shallower areas. Facets under the uppermost crust, down approximately 50cm, gave hard sudden collapse compression test results in the Shames area on Sunday. Recent cold and clear weather is promoting surface hoar formation and near-surface faceting.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">facetting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> continues to develop. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 80 - 120 cm. Strong ridgetop winds from the N-NE has redistributed snow onto S-SW aspects, creating reverse loaded slopes. Widespread wind effect is noticeable in the alpine and at treeline, but reports suggest wind slabs are stubborn to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the recent storm snow down 30-40 cm sits a surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface. Snowpack testing showed easy results and some </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/whumpf.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">whumphing </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">(failure of a weak layer below your feet). If you're seeing or feeling this, consider it a direct indicator of a buried weakness below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, I suspect you will find sugary weak facets. This layer may be stubborn to trigger under the current conditions, but if it was to happen, it would most likely be on a steep, convex slope with a thin snowpack</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong temperature gradient is resulting in faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. At ridgetop (above 1400 m) there could be as much as 50 cm of old snow, but lower elevations are either bare or have patchy snow cover. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely to be highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. In deeper areas, the upper snowpack (up to ~40cm) has undergone </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> during the recent cold temperatures. Small surface hoar has likely formed on the surface and is now buried by yesterday's snowfall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The old storm snow (~30-50cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become more of a problem. Strong NE winds after the storm caused reverse loading and wind slab formation on SE through W aspects in wind exposed areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower snowpack layers include a surface hoar layer roughly 60cm above the ground and an early season rain crust at the base of the snowpack. These layers have been inactive but residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Recent cold and clear weather has resulted in surface hoar formation and near-surface faceting, which is now getting buried by light dry snow. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the previous storm snow is settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still exist. The lower snowpack is a series of crusts, some of which are laminated with facets, particularly in shallower areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> continues to develop. Snowpack depths at treeline in this region are near 140 cm.&nbsp; Ridgetop winds from the SW have redistributed snow on lee slopes creating new wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Down approximately 50 cm in the snowpack sits a surface hoar layer, it is reported to be widespread below 1500 m and sitting on a old crust. This layer may be stubborn to trigger. However, it may be more reactive in areas that have seen some wind effect and a stiffened slab above it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It is important to dig down and test weak layers, especially if you have uncertainties in your local riding area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with up to 130cm in the alpine. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow winds have redistributed the snows that fell last week forming wind slabs on S to SW slopes at treeline and in the alpine. Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. There haven't been any reports of avalanches on these layers, but they're worth looking for it if you dig a pit.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades but 50 cm along the Duffy. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow winds have redistributed the snows that fell last week forming wind slabs on S to SW slopes at treeline and in the alpine. Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. There haven't been any reports of avalanches on these layers, but they're worth looking for it if you dig a pit.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> continues to develop. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 80 - 120 cm. Strong ridgetop winds from the N-NE has redistributed snow onto S-SW aspects, creating reverse loaded slopes. Widespread wind effect is noticeable in the alpine and at treeline, but reports suggest wind slabs are stubborn to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below the recent storm snow down 30-40 cm sits a surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface. Snowpack testing showed easy results and some whumphing (failure of a weak layer below your feet). If you're seeing or feeling this, consider it a direct indicator of a buried weakness below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, I suspect you will find sugary weak facets. This layer may be stubborn to trigger under the current conditions, but if it was to happen, it would most likely be on a steep, convex slope with a thin snowpack</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Recent cold and clear weather has resulted in surface hoar formation and/or near surface facetting, which is now getting buried by light dry snow. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still exist.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent cold temperatures have driven faceting in the upper snowpack and surface hoar growth is being reported in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow that fell last week is sitting above a buried weak layer of surface hoar found on north facing slopes and a crust on steep solar aspects. In many places the upper snowpack has not yet settled into a slab. However, in open areas this snow has be redistributed by the recent north to east winds forming windslabs at ridge-top and in cross loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong NE winds have reverse loaded and formed isolated wind slabs on SE through West aspects behind terrain features and on open slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">development and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> exists. Snowpack depths at treeline vary across the region, averaging 70-110 cm. In the Southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of new snow over the late-November surface hoar/ crust/ facet interface that may be reactive, especially in sheltered northerly aspects where the surface hoar was better preserved.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) and weak faceted crystals above and below the crust. This persistent slab may be stubborn to trigger, but if triggered have high consequences. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with an average of 100cm at treeline. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow winds have redistributed the snows that fell last week forming wind slabs on S to SW slopes at treeline and in the alpine. Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack, especially in shallow areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. There haven't been any reports of avalanches on these layers, but they're worth looking for it if you dig a pit.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ridgetop winds from the SW have redistributed snow on lee slopes creating new wind slabs. Widespread</span><a href="Sugary facets at or near the base of the snowpack likely represent the most worrisome persistent layer at this time. The most likely place to trigger them is on steep, convex slopes with a thin snowpack. - See more at: http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/bulletins/latest/south-rockies#sthash.mJ6iGHX4.dpuf" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D"> surface hoar</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> and surface</span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D"> faceting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> continue to develop in the upper snowpack. Incremental snowfall amounts have begun to bury these crystals. I suspect this wont become a problem until we have more load and an increase in slab development. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline in this region are near 140 cm. Down approximately 50 cm in the snowpack sits a surface hoar layer, it is reported to be widespread below 1500 m and sitting on a old crust. This layer may also be stubborn to trigger. However, it may be more reactive in areas that have seen some wind effect and a stiffened slab above it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceting </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">continue to develop. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm. Widespread wind effect is noticeable in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Down 30-40 cm sits a surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface. Snowpack testing showed easy results and some whumphing (failure of a weak layer below your feet). If you're seeing or feeling this, consider it a direct indicator of a buried weakness below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, weak sugary facets exist. This layer may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas. In shallower locations the likelihood may increase especially on a steep, convex slope. In some areas its still below threshold below treeline, and early season hazards like open creeks, and stumps exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades but 50 cm along the Duffy. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Arctic outflow winds have redistributed the snows that fell last week forming wind slabs on S to SW slopes at treeline and in the alpine. Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. Cold temperatures may have weakened the snow around these crusts - especially in alpine areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Recent cold and clear weather has resulted in surface hoar formation and/or near surface facetting, which is now getting buried by light dry snow. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still exist.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Trace amounts of new snow overnight. Total snowpack depth is 55cm at 2250m. Snowpack is almost entirely facets with a little bit of depth hoar at the base. The October crust is still found in sheltered North and East aspects in the Alpine and selected areas at Treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. This could change with the snow and wind forecast for Thursday.&nbsp; Currently at ridgetop (above 1400 m) there could be as much as 50 cm of old snow, lower elevations are either bare or have patchy snow cover. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm is forecast to add moderate new snow amounts above the dry cold surface snow that recently buried the very cold and facetted snow that was on the surface during the arctic outbreak. There is a great deal of variation in the snowpack with respect to elevation and exposure to winds. Shallow snowpack areas may be weak and facetted, and may not support the additional load of storm snow. The old storm snow (~30-50cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become more reactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Recent cold and clear weather has resulted in surface hoar formation and near-surface faceting, which is now getting buried by light dry snow. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the previous storm snow is settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still exist. The lower snowpack is a series of crusts, some of which are laminated with facets, particularly in shallower areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent cold temperatures have driven faceting in the upper snowpack and surface hoar growth is being reported in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snow that fell last week is sitting above a weak layer of surface hoar found on north facing slopes and a crust on steep solar aspects. In many places the upper snowpack has not yet settled into a slab. In the alpine and at some tree line locations the snow has been redistributed by the recent north to east winds forming wind slabs at ridge-top and cross loading some features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Little change from previously reported.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ridgetop winds from the SW have redistributed snow on lee slopes creating new wind slabs. Widespread</span><a href="Sugary facets at or near the base of the snowpack likely represent the most worrisome persistent layer at this time. The most likely place to trigger them is on steep, convex slopes with a thin snowpack. - See more at: http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/bulletins/latest/south-rockies#sthash.mJ6iGHX4.dpuf" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D"> surface hoar</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> and surface</span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D"> faceting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> continue to develop in the upper snowpack. Incremental snowfall amounts have begun to bury these crystals. I suspect this wont become a problem until we have more load and an increase in slab development. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline in this region are near 140 cm. Down deeper approximately 50 cm in the snowpack sits a surface hoar layer, it is reported to be widespread below 1500 m and sitting on a old crust. This layer may also be stubborn to trigger. However, it may be more reactive in areas that have seen some wind effect and a stiffened slab above it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Incremental snowfall amounts have begun to bury </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">and a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.com/encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceted</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm and widespread wind effect is noticeable in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Down 30-40 cm sits a surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface. Snowpack testing showed easy results and some whumphing (failure of a weak layer below your feet). If you're seeing or feeling this, consider it a direct indicator of a buried weakness below.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, weak sugary facets and depth hoar exist. This layer may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas. In shallower locations the likelihood may increase especially on a steep, convex slope.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some areas it is below threshold below treeline, and early season hazards like open creeks, and stumps exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack is below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. This will change tomorrow at higher elevations with the forecast snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to locally heavy amounts of low density snow now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or windslabs in exposed terrain. The developing storm slab is likely to become more reactive as slab properties increase with ongoing snowfall, warmer temperatures and wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Professionals are still keeping their eye on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Although this layer seems to have become less reactive, it may be triggered on steeper, unsupported terrain or by the weight of the new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo that formed in October. About 60cm above the ground is a surface hoar layer which formed in early November. These layers have become generally inactive; however, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to locally heavy amounts of low density snow now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or windslabs in exposed terrain. The developing storm slab is likely to become more reactive as slab properties increase with ongoing snowfall, warmer temperatures and wind.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Professionals are still keeping their eye on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. Although this layer seems to have become less reactive, it may be triggered on steeper, unsupported terrain or by the weight of the new snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo that formed in October. About 60cm above the ground is a surface hoar layer which formed in early November. These layers have become generally inactive; however, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New storm slab is 30 cm deep and growing. Strong Southwest winds are transporting snow and developing deep pockets that are sitting above recent weak surface layers. Rising temperatures during the storm are expected to develop a relatively warm storm slab above a cold layer of wind crusts, surface hoar and surface facets. Snow profile information from the Shames area on Monday before the storm on a South-Southwest aspect at 950 metres, showed a 70 cm base with loose snow in the top 20 cms above a stiff 4 cm crust that is sitting above a softer facet layer. There was another hard crust about 30 cms above the ground. The new storm is a great deal of change for this young and weak snowpack to handle.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Recent cold and clear weather has resulted in surface hoar formation and/or near surface facetting, which is now getting buried by light dry snow. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still exist.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new storm is forecast to add moderate new snow amounts above the dry cold surface snow that recently buried the very cold and facetted snow that was on the surface during the arctic outbreak. There is a great deal of variation in the snowpack with respect to elevation and exposure to winds. Shallow snowpack areas may be weak and facetted, and may not support the additional load of storm snow. The old storm snow (~30-50cm) overlies the late-November interface which typically consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become more reactive. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with an average of 100cm at treeline. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the pack, especially in shallow areas. Arctic outflow winds have scoured N and NE slopes leaving a thin layer of facets sitting on a crust. In protected locations surface hoar has been growing over the last couple of days at all elevations. These two week surface layers will cause a problem given a significant load of storm snow </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Further down a few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades but 50 cm along the Duffy. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar has been growing over the last week in protected locations near tree line while the cold temperatures have driven faceting throughout the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations. Cold temperatures may have weakened the snow around these crusts - especially in alpine areas with a thinner snowpack such as moraines.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shifting winds have formed stiff wind slabs on the lee side of ridge lines. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline vary across the region, averaging 70-110 cm. Widespread </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.com/encyclopedia/surface_hoar.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface hoar</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> development and surface </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.com/encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">faceting </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">exists from the previous cold temperatures and is now getting buried by incremental snowfall amounts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of low density snow over the late-November surface hoar/ crust/ facet interface. This layer may become reactive as it sees additional load, and warming temperatures, forming more of a slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) weak faceted crystals and depth hoar above and below the crust. This persistent slab may be stubborn to trigger, but if triggered have high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dribs and drabs of recent snowfall now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or windslabs in exposed alpine terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 50 and 70cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered north facing slopes and a crust on steep solar aspects. In some areas the overlying snowpack has not yet settled into a cohesive slab required for significant propagation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. Little is known about its reactivity in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much new to say here. TL &amp; below is a bottomless mass, except for previously traveled areas. The alpine winds have redistributed most available snow to the Prairies.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5cm of snow has fallen at higher elevations, more is expected over night but it will be significantly less than was forecast yesterday. In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. This exception to this is steep open areas such as talus slopes where there are no features to anchor the snowpack in places. As the temperatures warm the new snow will likely settle into a thin soft storm slab that might become cohesive enough to be briefly reactive before it bonds to the hard snow old surface below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to locally heavy amounts of low density snow now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or windslabs in exposed terrain. On sheltered, lower elevation slopes the new snow is mostly unconsolidated; however, moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Professionals are still keeping their eye on the late-November interface (about 40-80cm below the surface) which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer is still producing sudden test results, and may be triggered with nasty consequences on steeper, unsupported terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo that formed in October. About 60cm above the ground is a surface hoar layer which formed in early November. These layers have become generally inactive; however, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shifting winds have formed stiff wind slabs on the lee side of ridge lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline vary across the region, averaging 70-110 cm. Incremental snowfall amounts are burying surface hoar and a faceted upper snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Southern part of the region there is 40-70cm of low density snow sits over the late-November surface hoar/ crust/ facet interface. This layer may become reactive with additional load, and warming temperatures, forming more of a slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region the lower/mid snowpack is weak, composed of an early season crust (more prevalent on north aspects) weak faceted crystals and depth hoar above and below the crust. This persistent slab may be stubborn to trigger, but if triggered have high consequences.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with an average of 100cm at treeline. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">An average of 5cm of new snow has fallen at higher elevations. More is expected overnight but it will be significantly less than was forecast. Moderate southerly winds will redistribute this snow forming windslabs in lee features on North to Northeast slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The new storm snow is sitting on a variety of old surfaces: Last week's cold weather left a thin layer of facets above a crust on wind scoured north and northeast slopes. In sheltered locations surface hoar could be found both at treeline and in the alpine. These layers could become reactive over the weekend as the overlying slab develops due to wind loading or increasing temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Lower in the snowpack a few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Incremental snowfall amounts have buried surface hoar crystals and a faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm and widespread wind effect is noticeable in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Down 30-40 cm sits a surface hoar/ facet/ crust interface. This layer seems to be less reactive to snowpack testing. However, with windy, warmer temperatures and new snow it may become more reactive as the slab above it develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack, weak sugary facets and depth hoar exist. This layer may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas. In shallower locations the likelihood may increase especially on a steep, convex slope. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some areas it is below threshold below treeline, and early season hazards like open creeks, and stumps exist.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new storm slab continues to grow. Strong Southwest winds are transporting snow and developing deep pockets that are sitting above recent weak surface layers. Rising temperatures during the storm are expected to develop a relatively warm storm slab above a cold layer of wind crusts, surface hoar and surface facets. Snow profile information from the Shames area on Monday before the storm on a South-Southwest aspect at 950 metres, showed a 70 cm base with loose snow in the top 20 cms above a stiff 4 cm crust that is sitting above a softer facet layer. There was another hard crust about 30 cms above the ground. The new storm is a great deal of change for this young and weak snowpack to handle.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely highly variable across the region, with elevation, and in wind-exposed areas. Recent cold and clear weather has resulted in surface hoar formation and/or near surface facetting, which is now getting buried by light dry snow. Low-elevation and wind-affected areas likely have a shallow faceted snowpack. While in higher elevation sheltered areas the recent storm snow is likely settling and gaining strength; however, weaknesses at the old snow interface down approximately 40cm may still exist.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> Average snowpack depths near treeline are highly variable, but around a metre in sheltered areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ridgetop winds from the SW have redistributed snow on lee slopes creating new touchy wind slabs. Incremental snowfall amounts have begun to bury surface hoar and a faceted upper snowpack. With strong winds and warming temperatures a touchy slab (upside down feel to it) has developed. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline in this region are near 140 cm. Down deeper approximately 50 cm in the snowpack sits a surface hoar layer, it is reported to be widespread below 1500 m and sitting on a old crust. This layer may also be stubborn to trigger. However, it may be more reactive in areas that have seen wind effect and warming, stiffening the slab above it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades but only 50cm along the Duffy. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snow forecast for Thursday failed to materialize with only light accumulations across the region barely covering a variety of old surfaces.  Closer to the coast where the recent arctic outflow winds were stronger a thin layer of facets covers a crust on wind scoured north and northeast slopes. In sheltered locations, surface hoar could be found both at treeline in the alpine.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher elevations. The cold temperatures may have weakened the snow around these crusts - especially in alpine areas with a thinner snowpack such as moraine features.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to locally heavy amounts of low density snow now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or windslabs in exposed terrain. On sheltered, lower elevation slopes the new snow is mostly unconsolidated; however, moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Professionals are still keeping their eye on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 40-60cm below the surface, is still producing sudden test results and may be triggered with nasty consequences on steeper, unsupported terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo that formed in October. About 60cm above the ground is a surface hoar layer which formed in early November. These layers have become generally inactive; however, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dribs and drabs of recent snowfall now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or windslabs in exposed alpine terrain. In some high elevation terrain the new snow may have been shifted into pockets of small windslabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 50 and 70cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered north facing slopes and a crust on steep solar aspects. In some areas the overlying snowpack has not yet settled into a cohesive slab required for slab avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. Little is known about its reactivity in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Incremental new snowfalls of 10-15 cms continue to add a new storm load above the recently buried combination of wind slabs, crusts, surface hoar, and surface facets. Rising temperatures forecast over the next few days are expected to consolidate the storm slab above these buried weak layers. It may be difficult to determine when the slab will become more sensitive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become more reactive. The height of snow is below average for most of the region and below minimum recorded levels in many areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The depth of snow varies greatly across the region due to strong winds. Recent reports suggest that it now totals anywhere from 60-130cm at treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The impressive Dec 11 storm dumped approximately 50cm of new snow in the northern portion of the region while roughly 20-30cm fell in the White Pass region. The storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces including surface hoar, faceted crystals and crusts. In areas where the wind deposited snow into lee terrain features, you can expected a touchy cohesive slab of snow sitting over these buried weak layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is unconsolidated and adjusting to the added load of new snow. Cold temperatures in the fall have created an un-supportive foundation to the snowpack, composed of weak snow crystals; facets and depth hoar. Recent stability tests produced easy-moderate results in rocky, shallow snowpack areas where the layer may be more prominent. The added load of new snow may be enough to 'tip the scales'. If so, this layer has the ability to produce large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10cm recent HST overlying a variety of snow surfaces from hardslabs, facets and ground.  Snowpack is weak and shallow in most areas.  The 1027 melt freeze crust is found but it is very spotty in many areas.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with an average of 100cm at treeline. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Higher elevations received 5 to 10cm of new snow yesterday. Below 1400m much of this fell as rain. Moderate southerly winds formed thin windslabs in lee features in the alpine. These are are sitting on a variety of old surfaces: a crust exists wind scoured north and northeast slopes and surface hoar can be found in sheltered locations above 1900m. These layers could become reactive over the weekend as the overlying slab develops due to additional snow, wind loading and rising temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations a few crusts can be found near the ground, especially in thin and rocky areas such as glacial moraines .</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Overall the coastal snowpack is significantly thinner than the historical average for this time of year. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Rising freezing levels and warm temperatures are settling the new snow into a cohesive slab above the recently buried weak surface layers. The snowpack is generally shallow across the region and in some areas is below the recorded minimum values. New snow is expected to develop a storm slab at higher elevations. Very strong winds are transporting snow into deep pockets of stiff slabby snow. Cold temperatures at the beginning of December created near surface facetted snow and surface hoar above old wind crusts. The new warmer storm snow is not expected to bond well to these old buried layers. Expect a lot of variation in snow depths across the region, with areas in the Southwest likely to be more like the Northwest Coastal region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm and wet Pacific moisture continues to build a storm slab at higher elevations. Rising freezing levels and continued precipitation are expected to create a moist slab above recent buried weak layers that may continue to release naturally. Rain on snow at lower elevations is expected to saturate the shallow snowpack. Very strong to extreme winds are creating deep pockets of wind transported snow at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths are likely to vary across the region. At treeline, the average depths of snow is 120-150cm, seasonably below average.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The forecast suggests moderate to heavy amounts of new, warmer and denser snow will fall on top of the recent light snow that continues to add load above various buried weak layers. This combination includes wind slabs, crusts, surface hoar, and facets. Rising temperatures forecast over the next few days are expected to consolidate the storm slab above these buried weak layers. It may be difficult to determine when the slab will become more sensitive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and we get additional snow, expect this interface to become more reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper, in the mid-pack, a couple persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) are found which formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack, a early season rain crust exists. The continuous loading of new snow and the rising temperatures may be enough to wake up these previously dormant layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm at treeline in the Cascades but only 50cm along the Duffy. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The last system brought light accumulations across the region barely covering a variety of old surfaces: a crust exists wind scoured north and northeast slopes and surface hoar can be found in sheltered locations above 1900m. These layers could become reactive over the weekend as the overlying slab develops due to additional snow, wind loading and rising temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground, especially at higher elevations. The recent cold temperatures may have weakened the snow around these crusts - especially in alpine areas with a thinner snowpack such as moraine features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Overall the coastal snowpack is significantly thinner than the historical average for this time of year. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light incremental snowfall is starting to bury surface hoar and a faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 70 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. A persistent weakness of buried surface hoar and facets, with an associated crust, is down approximately 20-40cm . Recent reports suggest this layer has been producing variable results with snowpack tests, but it may become reactive as a cohesive slab develops with warming and/or additional load. The base of the snowpack is made up of weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on a steep, convex slopes. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dribs and drabs of recent snowfall now overlie generally faceted surfaces that formed during the recent cold snap. At the same buried interface you may find small surface hoar on sheltered slopes or older hard windslabs in exposed high elevation terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 35 and 60cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered north facing slopes and a crust on steep solar aspects. In some areas the overlying snowpack has not yet settled into a cohesive slab required for slab avalanche activity. This may change with warming forecast for the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. Little is known about its reactivity in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 50cm of snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar that formed during the recent cold snap. On sheltered, lower elevation slopes the new snow is mostly unconsolidated; however, forecast warming and wind may enhance cohesion in snow surfaces creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Professionals are still keeping their eye on the late-November interface which consists of hard sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 40-70cm below the surface, has recently produced sudden test results and may be triggered with nasty consequences on steeper, unsupported terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo that formed in October. About 60cm above the ground is a surface hoar layer which formed in early November. These layers have become generally inactive; however, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light incremental snowfall is starting to bury surface hoar and a faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. Buried surface hoar and facets, with an associated crust, are down approximately 30-40cm. Recent snowpack testing on this persistent weakness gave easy results and some whumpfing. The base of the snowpack is made up of weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on a steep, convex slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some areas it is below threshold below treeline, and early season hazards like open creeks, and stumps exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 50cm of snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar that formed during the recent cold snap. On sheltered, lower elevation slopes the new snow is mostly unconsolidated; however, forecast warming and wind may enhance the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Professionals are still keeping their eye on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 40-70cm below the surface, has recently produced sudden test results and may be triggered with nasty consequences on steeper, unsupported terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack is a crust/facet combo that formed in October. About 60cm above the ground is a surface hoar layer which formed in early November. These layers have become generally inactive; however, residual risk of large, destructive avalanches exists, especially in areas with a thinner snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is bonding poorly to the previous snow surface of surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust. In wind loaded areas the overlying slab is sufficiently deep and cohesive for avalanches. A persistent weakness of surface hoar sitting on an old crust is down approximately 50 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. This layer be be stubborn to trigger; however, it may also be more reactive in areas that have seen some wind effect and a stiffened slab above it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there isn't enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light incremental snowfall has started to bury surface hoar and a faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. Buried surface hoar and facets, with an associated crust, are down approximately 30-40cm. Recent snowpack testing on this persistent weakness gave easy results and some whumpfing. The base of the snowpack is made up of weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on a steep, convex slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some areas it is below threshold below treeline, and early season hazards like open creeks, and stumps exist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 15-20cm of recent snowfall overlies weak faceted crystals, small surface hoar or older hard windslabs in exposed high elevation terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes and a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. Little is known about its reactivity in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since last week's cold snap daily snowfall amounts have generally been in the moderate range. Although accumulations have been variable, roughly 60cm of snow now overlies the weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the cold weather. On lower elevation slopes rising temperatures are expected to have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses towards the base of the snowpack are mostly thought to be dormant at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snow and winds are adding to the surface load. Snowpack depths at tree line currently vary from 70 - 110 cm with the highest variability in wind-exposed areas. A persistent weakness of buried surface hoar and facets, along with an associated crust, is down approximately 20-40cm . This layer has been producing variable results with snowpack tests, and may become reactive as a cohesive slab develops with warming temperatures and additional loads. At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex slopes.  At lower elevations the snow depth is below the threshold for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack levels vary across the region. At treeline, the average snow depth is 120-150cm, and below the season average.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snow fall on top of the recent light snow will continue to add load above buried weak layers. The&nbsp; upper snowpack contains wind slabs, crusts, surface hoar, and facets. Rising temperatures forecast over the next few days will consolidate the storm slab above these weak layers. It's difficult to determine when the slab will become more sensitive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and withadditional snow, expect these layers to become more reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper, into the mid-pack, a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack, an early season rain crust exists. The continuous loading of new snow and the rising temperatures may be enough to wake up these previously dormant layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mixture of heavy rain/snow/wet snow has likely fallen to 1500m elevation. Strong Southwest winds are transporting snow and developing deep pockets that are sitting above recent weak surface layers. Rising temperatures during the storm have likely developed a relatively warm storm slab above a cold layer of wind crusts, surface hoar and surface facets, an upside down scenario. This layer was buried anywhere from 30-50cm prior to the major Dec 14 storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Earlier in the week, reports from the Shames area at 950m elevation suggested the mid and lower snowpack was composed of various faceted layers and a stiff 4 cm crust. Another crust can be found closer to the base of the snowpack. The new storm is a great deal of change for this young and weak snowpack to handle.</span><span class="s_CA75789E" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the area are quite sparse expect significant variation in snow depths across the region with areas in the Southwest (Howson range) likely to be more like the Northwest Coastal region. Around Smithers, reports suggest snow depths of 70-90cm at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It appears that the northern portion of the region received more snow (upwards of 20cm) than the south (Smithers area) which received trace amounts overnight. In areas that received significant new snow amounts, the snow is likely settling into a storm slab, accelerated by the recent warm temperatures. Very strong winds are transporting snow into deep pockets of cohesive, wind pressed snow. Cold temperatures at the beginning of December created near surface facetted snow and surface hoar above old wind and melt-freeze crusts. The new warmer storm snow is not expected to bond well to these old buried layers which range from 20-40cm below the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper, the mid and lower snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of facets, depth hoar and an early season crust near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have been out, we would love to hear about it. Please send your observations to forecaster@avalanche.ca.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the new snow from yesterday has been stripped by the wind. There are sheltered pockets that still have some new snow, but for the most part we're back to the old surface snow. Travel is still punchy with brief moments of supportive trailbreaking quickly followed by more tedious, deep trailbreaking. Our faceted snow pack is holding steady (so to speak).</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region but are significantly thinner than average amounts for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 10 and 15 cm of new snow is settling into a soft slab. Southerly winds have formed pockets of windslab in alpine lee features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar from early in December can be found buried is sheltered locations above 1900m. On slopes that were scoured by early December's strong N winds the late November crust may have been exposed on the surface before the recent snowfall however in most locations it underlies up to 40 cm of week sugary snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At higher elevations a few early season crusts can be found close to the ground, especially in thin and rocky areas such as glacial moraines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 160cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general the snowpack across the regions is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Between 15 and 20 cm of new snow is settling into a soft slab Southerly winds have formed pockets of windslab in alpine lee features. Surface hoar from early in December can be found buried is sheltered locations above 1900m. On slopes that were scoured by early December's strong N winds the late November crust may have been exposed on the surface before the recent snowfall however in most locations it underlies up to 40 cm of week sugary snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground at higher elevations especially in rocky alpine areas with a thin snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is bonding poorly to the previous snow surface of surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust. In wind loaded areas the overlying slab is sufficiently deep and cohesive for avalanches. A persistent weakness of surface hoar sitting on an old crust is down approximately 50 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. This layer be be stubborn to trigger; however, it may also be more reactive in areas that have seen some wind effect and a stiffened slab above it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Since last week's cold snap daily snowfall amounts have averaged about 10-15cm. Although accumulations have been variable, approximately 60cm of snow now overlies the weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the cold weather. On lower elevation slopes rising temperatures are expected to have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses towards the base of the snowpack are mostly thought to be dormant at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storms over the past week have deposited significant snow across the region. In the White Pass area, 50-60cm fell at highway elevations and you can expect significantly more snow higher in the mountains. Further north, a big dump (40-50cm) of snow fell last week at lower elevations. Moving forward, lingering wind slabs in lee terrain features are likely and a storm slab that may still be touchy where it overlies buried weak layers from early December; Surface hoar, facets and old wind crusts.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The young weak lower snowpack has undergone significant changes in the past week. Like anything, it requires time to adjust to the additional weight of the new snow. Stability tests from the Summit Creek area were producing easy to moderate results before the addition of a new snow. In the long run, the new snow is a good addition as it will slowly compress the deeper layers and help shelter (insulate) the lower snowpack from the harsh arctic outbreak weather that is inevitable. In the short term however, the added weight may just be enough to create a sufficient slab above which may be easily triggered by the additional weight of a rider. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Little change.  The few cms of new snow that has fallen is either blowing away, or building thin storm slabs along ridgelines. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Due to strong to extreme southwest winds on Sunday pockets of touchy windslab likely exist at upper elevations. Due to rising freezing levels, surfaces are reportedly moist below 1750m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Roughly 20-30cm of snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include: generally faceted surfaces (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain and hard windslab on south-facing alpine terrain. Thin snowpack areas, particularly around rocks, are reported to be highly faceted.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The lower snowpack is generally well consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average any many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snowpacks may exist to the north of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dribs and drabs of recent snowfall overlie weak faceted crystals, small surface hoar or older hard windslabs in exposed high elevation terrain. These modest accumulations may have been shifted into small pockets of windslab in areas where winds have been stronger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes and a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust which may have associated facets. This layer is more likely to be found in the high alpine on northerly aspects. Little is known about its reactivity in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although recent accumulations have been highly variable, up to 60cm of snow now overlies the weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the last cold snap. Rising temperatures are reported to have enhanced slab properties forming cohesive surfaces and creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses towards the base of the snowpack are mostly thought to be dormant at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snow is bonding poorly to the mid-December interface (surface hoar, facets, and/or a crust) but is generally not enough snow to create a new slab problem. Ongoing winds continue to load immediate lee features and wind slabs remain a primary concern. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar sitting on an old crust is down approximately 50 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. This layer may become easier to trigger in areas where a slab is forming through consolidation due to wind or warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent incremental snowfall has started to bury the mid-Dec surface hoar and the previously faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. Buried surface hoar/facets/crust (late-Nov interface) are down approximately 30-40cm. Recent snowpack testing on this persistent weakness gave easy results and some whumpfing. The base of the snowpack is made up of weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on a steep, convex slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some below treeline areas the snowpack is below threshold and early season hazards like open creeks and stumps remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20 to 30 cm of new snow is settling into a soft slab. Southerly winds have formed pockets of windslab in alpine lee features. Surface hoar from early in December can be found buried is sheltered locations above 1900m. On slopes that were scoured by early December's strong N winds the late November crust may have been exposed on the surface before the recent snowfall however in most locations it underlies up to 40 cm of week sugary snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A few crusts can be found near the ground at higher elevations especially in rocky alpine areas with a thin snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although recent accumulations have been highly variable, approximately 60cm of snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the recent cold snap. Rising temperatures are reported to have enhanced slab properties forming cohesive surfaces and creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses towards the base of the snowpack are mostly thought to be dormant at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A mixture of heavy rain/snow/wet snow has fallen to 1500m elevation. Strong Southwest winds are transporting snow and developing deep pockets that are sitting above recent weak surface layers. Rising temperatures during the storm have likely developed a relatively warm storm slab above a cold layer of wind crusts, surface hoar and surface facets, an upside down scenario. This layer was buried anywhere from 30-50cm prior to the major Dec 14 storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Earlier in the week, reports from the Shames area at 950m elevation suggested the mid and lower snowpack was composed of various faceted layers and a stiff 4 cm crust. Another crust can be found closer to the base of the snowpack. The recent precipitation will strengthen the snowpack at lower elevations, but may prove to be problematic with rapid wind loading at upper levels.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent dribs and drabs of snow are adding to the snowpack surface load. Snowpack depths at tree line currently vary from 100- 130 cm with the highest variability in wind-exposed areas. A persistent weakness of buried surface hoar and facets, is down approximately 20-40cm . This layer has been producing variable results with snowpack tests. Recent reports indicate that the new storm slab is becoming reactive with warming temperatures and additional loads. At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar combined with a crust from early October.. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex slopes. At lower elevations the snow depth is below the threshold for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the area are quite sparse. Expect significant variation in snow depths across the region with areas in the Southwest (Howson range) likely to be more like the Northwest Coastal region. Around Smithers, reports suggest snow depths of 70-90cm at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The northern portion of the region received more snow (upwards of 20cm) than the south (Smithers area) which received 10 to 20 cm overnight. In areas that received significant new snow amounts, the snow is settling into a storm slab, accelerated by the recent warm temperatures. Very strong winds are transporting snow into deep pockets of cohesive, wind pressed snow. Cold temperatures at the beginning of December created near surface facetted snow and surface hoar above old wind and melt-freeze crusts. The new warmer storm snow is not expected to bond well to these old buried layers which range from 20-40cm below the surface. The mid and lower snowpack is fundamentally weak, composed of facets, depth hoar and an early season crust near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have been out, we would love to hear about it. Please send your observations to forecaster@avalanche.ca.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack levels vary across the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snow fall on top of the recent light snow will continue to add load to buried weak layers. The upper snowpack contains wind slabs, crusts, surface hoar, and facets. Rising temperatures forecast over the next few days will consolidate the storm slab above these weak layers. It's difficult to determine when the slab will become more sensitive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. These weak layers are expected to be persistent, although in many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and with additional snow, expect these layers to become more reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper, into the mid-pack, a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack, an early season rain crust exists. The continuous loading of new snow and the rising temperatures may be enough to wake up these previously dormant layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5 to 10cm of new snow has fallen in the past 48hrs. This snow is being rapidly re-distributed by extreme winds out of the SW. Storm slabs are forming at all elevations and are touchy to triggering in lee and cross-loaded features. Some cornice growth has also been observed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Due to strong to extreme southwest winds on Sunday pockets of touchy wind slab likely exist at upper elevations. Roughly 20-30cm of snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include: generally faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. Thin snowpack areas, particularly around rocks, are reported to be highly faceted.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average any many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snowpacks may exist to the north of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snowfall and strong West-southwest winds have formed pockets of soft wind slab in exposed areas above treeline. Recent snowfall overlies weak faceted crystals, small surface hoar or older hard windslabs in exposed high elevation terrain. Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes and a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are reports of a deeply buried early season crust that formed in October, this layer is more likely to be found near the ground in the high alpine on northerly aspects. Little is known about its reactivity in this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although recent accumulations have been highly variable, up to 60cm of snow now overlies the weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the last cold snap. Rising temperatures are reported to have enhanced slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created dense wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are generally promoting settlement and bonding within the snowpack. Ongoing winds continue to load immediate lee features and wind slabs remain a primary concern. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar sitting on an old crust is down approximately 50 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. This layer may become easier to trigger in areas where a slab is forming through consolidation due to wind or warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent incremental snowfall has started to bury the mid-Dec surface hoar and the previously faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. Buried surface hoar/facets/crust (late-Nov interface) are down approximately 30-40cm. The base of the snowpack is made up of weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on a steep, convex slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some below treeline areas the snowpack is below threshold and early season hazards like open creeks and stumps remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent warm temperatures have generally promoted snowpack settlement and bonding within the snowpack. The recent storm snow is bonding well to the mid-Dec facet interface at treeline and below. Previous weak interfaces deeper in the snowpack are generally well bonded and unreactive to snowpack tests. In the alpine, strong SW winds have redistributed the recent storm snow creating wind slabs in leeward features and wind scoring on windward slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although recent accumulations have been highly variable, approximately 60cm of snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the recent cold snap. Rising temperatures are expected to have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations. Moderate to strong southwest winds have created dense wind slabs in exposed high elevation terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface which consists of sun crusts on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried between 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small amounts of recent storm snow are beginning to add up on top of the sugary facets from early December. Snowpack depths at tree line currently vary from 100- 130 cm and reports speak of severe scouring on the windward side of ridges, moving snow onto lee sides and creating dense wind slabs.. A persistent weakness of buried surface hoar and facets is down approximately 20-40cm . This layer has been producing variable results with snowpack tests. Recent reports indicate that the new storm/wind slab is becoming reactive with warming temperatures and additional loads. At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar combined with a crust from early October.. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex slopes. At lower elevations the snow depth is below the threshold for avalanches.&nbsp; With increasing load the weak layers may become more reactive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is wide variation in snow depths across the region. Areas in the Southwest (Howson range) are likely similar to the Northwest Coastal region. Around Smithers, reports suggest snow depths of 70-90cm at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The northern portion of the region received a bit more snow (upwards of 20cm) than the south (Smithers area) which received 10 to 20 cm overnight. In areas that received significant new snow amounts, the snow is settling into a storm slab, accelerated by the recent warm temperatures. Very strong winds have transported snow into layes of cohesive, wind pressed snow. Cold temperatures at the beginning of December created facetted snow and surface hoar above old wind and melt-freeze crusts. The new warmer storm snow is not expected to bond well to these old buried layers which range from 20-40cm below the surface. The mid and lower snowpack is fundamentally weak, and is composed of facets, depth hoar and an early season crust near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have been out, we would love to hear about it. Please send your observations to forecaster@avalanche.ca.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy wet snow has fallen at upper elevations with freezing levels rising to 1500m during the last storm. Strong Southwest winds have transported the new snow creating storm slabs that sit above a weak layer formed during the last cold snap. Surface hoar, and&nbsp; facets in the upper snowpack are now buried anywhere from 50 to 80cm from the surface by the recent storms.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Earlier in the week, reports from the Shames area at 950m elevation suggested the mid and lower snowpack was composed of various faceted layers and a stiff 4 cm crust. Another crust can be found closer to the base of the snowpack. The recent precipitation will strengthen the snowpack at lower elevations, but may prove to be problematic with rapid wind loading at upper levels. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack levels vary widely with reports of up to 180cm at tree line in some parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snow fall will continue to add load to buried weak layers. The upper snowpack contains wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Rising temperatures forecast over the next few days will consolidate the storm slab above these weak layers. It's difficult to determine when the slab will become reactive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. These weak layers are expected to be persistent. In many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and with additional snow, expect these layers to become more active.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper, in the mid-pack, a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack, an early season rain crust exists. The continuous loading of new snow and the rising temperatures may be enough to wake up these previously dormant layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Only trace amounts of new snow over past 24 hours. Windward features are stripped completely bare by intense westerly flow. Some thin storm slabs formed in previous 48-72 hours may be sensitive to triggering in specific features such as immediate lees and cross-loaded gullies.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong westerly winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-30cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include: sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snowfall and strong west-southwest winds have formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes and scoured windward slopes in exposed terrain. Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes and a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average and many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snow is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong westerly winds near ridgetop have created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain while scouring windward slopes. Mild temperatures have also promoted settlement and slab development. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down 30-60 cm (deeper in northern sections). This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas, is buried 60-90cm below the surface and is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. At the base of the snowpack the October crust is lurking in specific terrain, like north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong west-southwest winds have created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. Although recent accumulations have been highly variable, approximately 60cm of settled snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the recent cold snap in mid-December. Mild temperatures have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried 60-80cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are generally promoting settlement and bonding within the snowpack. Ongoing winds continue to load immediate lee features and wind slabs remain a primary concern. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar sitting on an old crust is down approximately 50 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. This layer may become easier to trigger in areas where a slab is forming through consolidation due to wind or warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent warm temperatures have generally promoted snowpack settlement and bonding within the snowpack. The recent storm snow is bonding well to the mid-Dec facet interface at treeline and below. Previous weak interfaces deeper in the snowpack are generally well bonded and unreactive to snowpack tests. In the alpine, strong SW winds have redistributed the recent storm snow creating wind slabs in leeward features and wind scoring on windward slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the area are quite sparse. There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area, reports suggest snow depths of 70-90cm at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The northern portion of the region received more snow (upwards of 20cm) than the south (Smithers area) which received 10 to 20 cm overnight. In areas that received significant new snow amounts, the snow is settling into a storm slab, accelerated by the recent warm temperatures. Very strong winds are transporting snow into deep pockets of cohesive, wind pressed snow. Cold temperatures at the beginning of December created near surface facetted snow and surface hoar above old wind and melt-freeze crusts. The new warmer storm snow is not expected to bond well to these old buried layers which range from 20-40cm below the surface. The mid and lower snowpack is weak, composed of facets, depth hoar and an early season crust near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have been out, we would love to hear about it. Please send your observations to forecaster@avalanche.ca.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack levels vary widely with reports of up to 180cm at tree line in some parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy snow fall will continue to add load to buried weak layers. The upper snowpack contains wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Rising temperatures forecast over the next few days will consolidate the storm slab above these weak layers. It's difficult to determine when the slab will become reactive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. These weak layers are expected to be persistent. In many areas the upper slab is not yet stiff enough for slab avalanches. When temperatures rise, and with additional snow, expect these layers to become more active.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper, in the mid-pack, a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack, an early season rain crust exists. The continuous loading of new snow and the rising temperatures may be enough to wake up these previously dormant layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent incremental snowfall has started to bury the mid-Dec surface hoar and the previously faceted upper snowpack. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. Buried surface hoar/facets/crust (late-Nov interface) are down approximately 30-40cm. The base of the snowpack is made up of weak facets and depth hoar. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on a steep, convex slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some below treeline areas the snowpack is below threshold and early season hazards like open creeks and stumps remain a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small amounts of recent storm snow are beginning to add up on top of the sugary facets from early December. Snowpack depths at tree line currently vary from 100- 130 cm, and reports speak of severe scouring on the windward side of ridges, resulting in snow deposition on lee slopes and creating dense wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of buried surface hoar and facets is down approximately 20-40cm . This layer has been producing variable results with snowpack tests. Recent reports indicate that the new storm/wind slab is becoming reactive with warming temperatures and additional loads. At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar, combined with a crust from early October.. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex slopes. At lower elevations the snow depth is below the threshold for avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy wet snow has fallen at upper elevations with freezing levels rising to 1500m during the last storm. Strong west winds have transported the new snow creating storm slabs that sit above a weak layer formed during the last cold snap. Surface hoar, and facets in the upper snowpack are now buried anywhere from 50 to 80cm from the surface by the recent storm</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shames area at 950m elevation suggested the mid and lower snowpack was composed of various faceted layers and a stiff 4 cm crust. Another crust can be found closer to the base of the snowpack. The recent precipitation will strengthen the snowpack at lower elevations, but may prove to be problematic with rapid wind loading at upper levels. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light snowfall and strong west-southwest winds have formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes and scoured windward slopes in exposed terrain. Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes and a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average and many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snow is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong westerly winds near ridgetop have created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain while scouring windward slopes. Mild temperatures have also promoted settlement and slab development. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down 30-60 cm (deeper in northern sections). This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers and both cracking and whumpfing have been observed.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas, is buried 60-90cm below the surface and is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. At the base of the snowpack the October crust is lurking in specific terrain, like north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Small amounts of recent storm snow are beginning to add up on top of the sugary facets from early December. Snowpack depths at tree line currently vary from 100- 130 cm and reports speak of severe scouring on the windward side of ridges, moving snow onto lee sides and creating dense wind slabs. A persistent weakness of buried surface hoar and facets is down approximately 20-50cm. This layer has been producing variable results with snowpack tests. Recent reports indicate that the new storm/ wind slab is becoming reactive with warming temperatures and additional loads. At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar combined with a crust from early October. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex slopes. Snow depth is below threshold in many areas below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong westerly winds have created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. Approximately 60cm of settled snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the recent cold snap in mid-December. Snowpack test vary on this interface with some areas reporting easy &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. Mild temperatures have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried 60-90cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent warm temperatures have generally promoted snowpack settlement and bonding within the snowpack. The recent storm snow is bonding well to the mid-Dec facet interface at treeline and below. Previous weak interfaces deeper in the snowpack are generally well bonded and unreactive to snowpack tests. In the alpine, strong SW winds have redistributed the recent storm snow creating wind slabs in leeward features and wind scoring on windward slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Warm temperatures are generally promoting settlement and bonding within the snowpack. Ongoing winds continue to load immediate lee features and wind slabs remain a primary concern. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar sitting on an old crust is down approximately 50 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. This layer may become easier to trigger in areas where a slab is forming through consolidation due to wind or warming.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region.&nbsp; Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers which are still being discussed in the region.&nbsp; There is a lot of uncertainty as to the reactivity of these layers and it may vary across the region.&nbsp; We highly recommend digging and investigating these layers in your local area before exposing yourself to avalanche terrain.&nbsp; Nearest to the surface is the mid-December (~Dec 10) facet/surface hoar/crust interface which does not seem to have enough snow on it yet to create a widespread problem.&nbsp; Next is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets.&nbsp; This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment.&nbsp; The mid-November crust is likely in the middle of the snowpack and may be faceting. Near the base of the snowpack is the early-Oct crust/facets and potentially depth hoar which may still have the potential to create avalanche problems, especially in thin snowpack areas.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy wet snow has fallen at upper elevations with freezing levels rising to 1500m during the last storm. Strong west winds have transported the new snow creating storm slabs that sit above a weak layer formed during the last cold snap. Surface hoar, and facets in the upper snowpack are now buried anywhere from 50 to 80cm from the surface by the recent storm</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Shames area at 950m elevation suggested the mid and lower snowpack was composed of various faceted layers and a stiff 4 cm crust. Another crust can be found closer to the base of the snowpack. The recent precipitation will strengthen the snowpack at lower elevations, but may prove to be problematic with rapid wind loading at upper levels. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary widely with reports of up to 180cm at tree line in some parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack contains storm snow, wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Warm temps and as much as 70cm of new snow have combined to form a cohesive slab on top of the surface hoar and facets. It's difficult to determine if the slab is currently reactive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. Deeper in the mid-pack a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack an early season rain crust exists. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong westerly winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-30cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">HN24 of 25cm, low density. The storm came in warm and cooled as the event played out. Windloading will be a concern with the first significant winds. The midpack is still facetted at all elevations, however it does carry reasonably well with the new snow. Ski pen of 25 in untracked areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports from the area are quite sparse. There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area, reports suggest snow depths of 70-90cm at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The northern portion of the region received more snow (upwards of 20cm) than the south (Smithers area) which received 10 to 20 cm overnight. In areas that received significant new snow amounts, the snow is settling into a storm slab, accelerated by the recent warm temperatures. Very strong winds are transporting snow into deep pockets of cohesive, wind pressed snow. Cold temperatures at the beginning of December created near surface facetted snow and surface hoar above old wind and melt-freeze crusts. The new warmer storm snow is not expected to bond well to these old buried layers which range from 20-40cm below the surface. The mid and lower snowpack is weak, composed of facets, depth hoar and an early season crust near the base of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">If you have been out, we would love to hear about it. Please send your observations to forecaster@avalanche.ca.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong westerly winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-30cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain.&nbsp; The storm snow generally appears to be well bonded to this interface but instabilities make exist in isolated areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations. In glaciated terrain the forecast snow might just be enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of low density new snow fell with the latest system, accompanied by moderate W-NW ridgetop winds. Expect to find dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. A couple notable persistent weak layers can be found in the top 60 cm. These layers have produced variable results with snowpack tests, but are increasingly concerning as the load above increases and/or a slab develops. If you're in the Golden area check out the latest update on local conditions from </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.skiinggolden.com/journal/2013/12/19/december-18-video-update-ahh-winter-has-arrived.html" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Skiing Golden. </span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar combined with a crust from early October. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes. Snow depth is still below threshold in many areas below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm.  Recent strong and shifting winds have created variable snowpack conditions in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline with wind scouring on windward slopes and wind loading/slab formation on leeward slopes and cross-loaded features.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, a persistent weakness of surface hoar (possibly sitting on an old crust) is down approximately 40-70 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. With the recent warm temperatures followed by the current cold temperatures, a stiff slab likely sits on top of this layer.  While this makes triggering an avalanche on this layer more difficult, it increases the potential for large, destructive avalanches if an avalanche is released.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers which are still being discussed in the region. There is a lot of uncertainty as to the reactivity of these layers and it may vary across the region. We highly recommend digging and investigating these layers in your local area before exposing yourself to avalanche terrain. Nearest to the surface is the mid-December (~Dec 10) facet/surface hoar/crust interface which does not seem to have enough snow on it yet to create a widespread problem. Next is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment. The mid-November crust is likely in the middle of the snowpack and may be faceting. Near the base of the snowpack is the early-Oct crust/facets and potentially depth hoar which may still have the potential to create avalanche problems, especially in thin snowpack areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Total snowpack depth in the region ranges between 140 - 200cm. A surface hoar/facet combo formed during the early December cold snap is now buried 50 - 80cm below the surface. In some locations this layer rests on an old melt freeze crust. The last storm came in wet &amp; heavy with the freezing level as high as 1500m at times. Strong south and west winds during and just after the last storm resulted in widespread wind slab formation.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is composed of various faceted layers and crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A significant crust/facet combo lingers near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Yesterday's storm snow has settled quickly. 18cm of storm snow as of this afternoon. BTL the trailbreaking is still challenging in untracked areas. At TL and ALP elevations the snowpack is variable in both depth and quality. Any terrain exposed directly to last week's winds is stripped dry with a dusting of storm snow on top. Lee areas are covered with a thick hard slab, which is in turn covered with storm snow. Lots of snow available for wind transport! HS @ Burstall pass: 92cm, HS @ road: 69cm</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong westerly winds have created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. Approximately 60 cm of settled snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the recent cold snap in mid-December. Snowpack test vary on this interface with some areas reporting easy &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. Mild temperatures have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried 60-90cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent warm temperatures have generally promoted snowpack settlement and bonding within the snowpack. The recent storm snow is bonding well to the mid-Dec facet interface at treeline and below. Previous weak interfaces deeper in the snowpack are generally well bonded and recently unreactive to snowpack tests. In the alpine, strong SW winds have redistributed the recent storm snow creating wind slabs in leeward features and wind scoring on windward slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It's been an exceptionally dry December so far. The total monthly precipitation in Nelson is 40 mm, and 30 mm of that fell in one storm at the beginning of the month. Hopefully the weather pattern changes soon!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfall and strong westerly winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes and scoured windward slopes in exposed terrain. Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load above gradually increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average and many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snow is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of dry new snow covers the previous storm snow and wind slabs in higher exposed terrain. Dense wind slabs are most likely on exposed north through southeast facing slopes. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down around 40 cm in the south and up to 60 cm further north. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers and both cracking and whumpfing have been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas, is buried 60-90cm below the surface and is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. At the base of the snowpack the October crust is lurking in specific terrain, like north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're relying on a shoe string worth of data for this forecast! </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 85 cm base.&nbsp; Treeline depths vary between 100 - 180 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It sounds like a bit of cold dry snow has fallen in the last two days. The weekend storm finished very warm, as a result a crust can be found near the snow surface below 1100m. The best guess is that the last storm produced around 10 - 50 cm of snow. This snow now overlies the layer of&nbsp; facets/surface hoar that sit above old wind slabs and melt-freeze crusts which were formed during the December cold/dry spell. We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered by wind. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak due to facets, potentially even depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary widely with reports of up to 180cm at tree line in some parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack contains storm snow, wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Previously warm temps and as much as 70cm of new snow have combined to form a cohesive slab on top of the surface hoar and facets. It's difficult to determine if the slab is currently reactive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. Deeper in the mid-pack a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack an early season rain crust exists. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">10-15 new snow sits on an old, shallow base. In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It's been an exceptionally dry December so far. The total monthly precipitation in Nelson is 40 mm, and 30 mm of that fell in one storm at the beginning of the month. Hopefully the weather pattern changes soon!</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfall and strong westerly winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes and scoured windward slopes in exposed terrain. Between 35 and 50cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a melt-freeze crust on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load above gradually increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average and many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snow is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wide variation in snow depths between north and south in the South Columbias. 5-10 cm of dry new snow covers the previous storm snow and wind slabs in higher exposed terrain. Dense wind slabs are most likely on exposed north through southeast facing slopes. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down around 40 cm in the south and up to 60 cm further north. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers and both cracking and whumpfing have been noted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas, is buried 60-90cm below the surface and is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. At the base of the snowpack the October crust is lurking in specific terrain, like north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary widely with reports of up to 180cm at tree line in some parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack contains storm snow, wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Previously warm temps and as much as 70cm of new snow have combined to form a cohesive slab on top of the surface hoar and facets. It's difficult to determine if the slab is currently reactive to light triggers like skiers and sledders. Deeper in the mid-pack a couple of persistent weak layers (surface hoar and facets) can be found that formed in mid and late November. Near the base of the snowpack an early season rain crust exists. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow and strong southerly winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-30cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. The storm snow generally appears to be well bonded to this interface but instabilities may exist in isolated areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-20 cm new snow now sits on a generally well consolidated snowpack. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. In the alpine, strong S and SW winds have redistributed the recent storm snow creating wind slabs in leeward features and wind scoring on windward slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent snow has settled quickly in sheltered areas. BTL is still un supportive with ski pens of 20+. At TL &amp; ALP, the winds have formed wind slabs of varying densities. Generally the slabs get stiffer as elevation and proximity to ridges grows.  HS@Burstall pass 86 and HS@Mud Lake 65.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued accumulation of low density new snow from the latest systems, accompanied by moderate W-NW ridgetop winds. Expect to find dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. A couple of notable persistent weak layers can be found in the top 60 cm. These layers have produced variable results with snowpack tests, but are increasingly concerning as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.&nbsp; Snowpack depths vary widely across the Purcells from North to South.&nbsp; If you're in the Golden area check out the latest update on local conditions from </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.skiinggolden.com/journal/2013/12/19/december-18-video-update-ahh-winter-has-arrived.html" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">Skiing Golden. </span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar combined with a crust from early October. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes. Snow depth is still below threshold in many areas below treeline. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Total snowpack depth in the region ranges between 150 - 250cm. On December 20th the region picked up almost 50 cm of new snow that rests on a variety of old surface layers: old wind slabs, a crust that formed on Dec. 14 in some locations and even small grained surface hoar. This brings the total load of snow on the December 12 layer to 75 - 130 cm. December 12th is a surface hoar/facet combo formed during the early December cold snap which rests on old wind slabs and melt freeze crusts. Strong winds out of the South &amp; West have been working overtime to redistribute storm snow from the past week into what is now a widespread wind slab problem at and above treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is composed of various faceted layers and crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A significant crust/facet combo lingers near the base of the snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're relying on a shoe string worth of data for this forecast! </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 85 cm base. Treeline depths vary between 100 - 180 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region has picked up 5 - 20 cm of cold new snow over the last three days.  Last weekend's storm finished very warm, as a result a crust can be found near the snow surface below 1100m. The best guess is that the last storm produced around 10 - 50 cm of snow. This snow now overlies the layer of facets/surface hoar that sit above old wind slabs and melt-freeze crusts which were formed during the December cold/dry spell. We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered by wind. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak due to facets, potentially even depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong westerly winds have created dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. Approximately 60cm of settled snow now overlies weak faceted crystals or small surface hoar which formed during the recent cold snap in mid-December. Snowpack test vary on this interface with some areas reporting easy &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. Mild temperatures have enhanced the slab properties creating a more reactive &quot;upside-down&quot; snowpack, especially at lower elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">As of late there has been no reported activity on the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. This layer, buried 60-90cm below the surface, is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger; however, avalanches on this interface could be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. Recent strong and shifting winds have created variable snowpack conditions in the alpine and exposed areas at treeline with wind scouring on windward slopes and wind loading/slab formation on leeward slopes and cross-loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, a persistent weakness of surface hoar (possibly sitting on an old crust) is down approximately 40-70 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. With the recent temperature fluctuations, the slab sitting on top of this layer is gaining stiffness. This increases the potential for propagation and the chance of large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are several persistent weak layers which are still being discussed in the region. Nearest to the surface is the mid-December (~Dec 10) facet/surface hoar/crust interface which does not seem to have enough snow on it yet to create a widespread problem. Next is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. Despite it's reactivity in snowpack tests, we have not yet seen widespread avalanche activity on this layer. I suspect it only needs a little more additional load to turn this into a more serious avalanche problem. A buried crust from mid-November can be found near the base of the snowpack below 1650 m and is breaking down into facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface growth observed in sheltered areas at lower elevations. Sun crusts are found on steep South aspects. Snowpack is weak and unsupportive at lower elevations. Wind effect Alpine areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. Accumulations over the past 48 hours have been light to locally moderate with southwest winds creating pockets of touchy wind slab in the immediate lee of ridgecrests. These new accumulations overlie generally harder wind-pressed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, a persistent weakness of surface hoar (possibly sitting on an old crust) is down approximately 40-70 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. With the recent temperature fluctuations, the slab sitting on top of this layer is gaining stiffness. This increases the potential for propagation and the chance of large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow have fallen in the last 24 hours and may have been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. Despite its reactivity in snowpack tests, we have not yet seen widespread avalanche activity on this layer. I suspect it only needs a little more additional load to turn this into a more serious avalanche problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A buried crust from mid-November can be found near the base of the snowpack below 1650 m and is breaking down into facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at treeline range from 100 cm -150 cm. New snow up to 15 cm has buried older wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. The new storm slab is touchy to rider triggers, and natural loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain exists. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried down 40-60 cm is a surface hoar, and facet layer. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers and both cracking and whumpfing have been noted.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper down 70-90 cm, is the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust/ facet combo on steep south facing slopes and larger, proud surface hoar crystals in sheltered areas. This layer is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. However, professionals are keeping a close eye on this layer especially with forecast new load.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack the October crust is most predominant on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Total snowpack depth in the region ranges between 150 - 250cm. On December 20th Kasiks (Between Terrace &amp; Rupert) picked up almost 50cm while Bear Pass saw around 20cm. This snow rests on a variety of old surface layers: old wind slabs, a crust that formed on Dec. 14 in some locations and even small grained surface hoar. This brings the total load of snow on the December 12 layer to 75 - 130 cm. December 12th is a surface hoar/facet combo formed during the early December cold snap which rests on old wind slabs and melt freeze crusts. Strong winds out of the South &amp; West have been working overtime to redistribute storm snow from the past week into what is now a widespread wind slab problem at and above treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is composed of various faceted layers and crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A significant basal facet/crust combo lingers near the base of the snowpack and is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. Low density new snow covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak interfaces exist comprising of surface hoar and a facet/ crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack are weak facets and depth hoar combined with a crust from early October. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at Treeline are between 75 - 120cm. Alpine depths vary between 100 - 180cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're dealing with a complex snowpack in the Cariboo Mountains at this time. See this </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4G7d78hbfc&amp;feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> for a great visual.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack contains storm snow, wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Previously warm temps and as much as 85cm of new snow have combined to form a cohesive slab on top of the November 28 surface hoar and facets. Snowpack tests are showing Sudden Planar results on this layer with medium loads which indicates the potential for human triggering. There's not a whole lot of snow between riders and sugary snow (facets) near the base of the snowpack. In some places this crust facet combo is failing naturally. As a result you'll notice that there is a Persistent Slab problem on the front page. Human triggering of large destructive avalanches is possible at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Stiff, dense wind slabs exist in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at and above treeline. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down around 40-60 cm. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 60-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some reporting easy &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack sits a crust that formed in October. This crust seems to be more predominant on Northerly aspects at treeline and above. </span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We've received one observation from this region in the last week. As a result, you need to take this discussion with a grain of salt, so to speak.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 89 cm base. Treeline depths vary between 100 - 180 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region has picked up 5 - 20 cm of cold new snow over the last three days. Last weekend's storm finished very warm, as a result a crust can be found near the snow surface below 1100m. The best guess is that the last storm produced around 10 - 50 cm of snow. This snow now overlies the layer of facets/surface hoar that sit above old wind slabs and melt-freeze crusts which were formed during the December cold/dry spell. We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered by wind. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak due to facets, potentially even depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfall and strong westerly winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes and scoured windward slopes in exposed terrain. Loose dry surface sluffing is likely on most steeper slopes and terrain features.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried between 35 - 50 cm below the surface you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a melt-freeze crust/ facet combo  on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or there may not be a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said, I'd remain curious about this interface, especially as the snow load above gradually increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average and many slopes below treeline are reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snow is likely in the northern part of the region.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snow and strong southerly winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-30cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. The storm snow generally appears to be well bonded to this interface but instabilities may exist in isolated areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-20 cm new snow now sits on a generally well consolidated snowpack. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where very touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits below about 30cm of recent snowfall. This will be a weakness to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-30 new snow sits on an old, shallow base. In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The cold temps have started to facet the new snow from last week. There are some pockets of storm/wind slab associated with this snow, but for the most part the wind has'nt had a huge effect on the new snow. The mid pack is weak in all locations/elevations. The Oct. crust was found during today's snow study mission, but only in one of two profiles- these profiles were 20m apart! The variability in the snow pack is impressive right now to say the least.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-30cm of new snow sits on an old, shallow base. In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another storm has arrived on the NW Coast and it's picking up in intensity at this time. (Sunday afternoon.) This storm should force the numerous weak layers in our snowpack to show their cards. Total pre-storm snowpack depths in the region vary between 150 - 250cm. On December 20th Kasiks (Between Terrace &amp; Rupert) picked up almost 50cm while Bear Pass saw around 20cm. This snow rests on a variety of old surface layers: old wind slabs, a crust that formed on Dec. 14 in some locations and even small grained surface hoar. This brings the total load of snow on the December 12 layer to 75 - 130 cm. December 12th is a surface hoar/facet combo formed during the early December cold snap which rests on old wind slabs and melt freeze crusts. The last two systems have been accompanied by strong winds out of the South and West which has resulted in a wind slab problem that lingers for a couple of days after the storm. The mid pack is composed of deteriorating layers of old facets and crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A significant basal facet/crust combo lingers near the base of the snowpack and is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We got a couple of observations from Saturday which is great! </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 89 cm base while the Ashman trailer is around the same. Treeline depths vary between 100 - 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region has picked up 10 - 30 cm of cold new snow over the last three days. Last weekend's storm finished very warm, as a result a crust can be found near the snow surface below 1100m. The best guess is that the last storm produced around 10 - 50 cm of snow. This snow now overlies the layer of facets/surface hoar that sit above old wind slabs and melt-freeze crusts which were formed during the December cold/dry spell. We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered by wind. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak due to facets, potentially even depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snow and strong southerly winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-30cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. The storm snow generally appears to be well bonded to this interface but instabilities may exist in isolated areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15-20 cm recent snowfall now sits on a generally well consolidated snowpack. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where very touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits below about 30cm of recent snowfall. This will be a weakness to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at Treeline are between 75 - 120cm. Alpine depths vary between 100 - 180cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're dealing with a complex snowpack in the Cariboo Mountains at this time. See this </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4G7d78hbfc&amp;feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> for a great visual.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack contains storm snow, wind slabs, surface hoar, and facets. Previously warm temps and as much as 85cm of new snow have combined to form a cohesive slab on top of the November 28 surface hoar and facets. Snowpack tests are showing Sudden Planar results on this layer with medium loads which indicates the potential for human triggering. There's not a whole lot of snow between riders and sugary snow (facets) near the base of the snowpack. In some places this crust facet combo is failing naturally. As a result you'll notice that there is a Persistent Slab problem on the front page. Human triggering of large destructive avalanches is possible at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent light snowfall and strong westerly have winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes and scoured windward slopes in exposed terrain. Loose dry surface sluffing is likely on most steeper slopes and terrain features. Two layers of surface hoar can be found buried in the upper snowpack but are currently not deep enough to be a concern.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 35 - 50 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. Most reports indicate either that this layer is &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger, or that there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above gradually increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. Deeper snow is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Low density new snow covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/ crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. Accumulations in recent days have been light to locally moderate with southwest winds creating pockets of touchy wind slab in the immediate lee of ridgecrests. These new accumulations overlie generally harder wind-pressed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, a persistent weakness of surface hoar (possibly sitting on an old crust) is down approximately 40-70 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. With the recent temperature fluctuations, the slab sitting on top of this layer is gaining stiffness. This increases the potential for propagation and the chance of large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow have fallen in the last few days and may have been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. Despite its reactivity in snowpack tests, we have not yet seen widespread avalanche activity on this layer. I suspect it only needs a little more additional load to turn this into a more serious avalanche problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A buried crust from mid-November can be found near the base of the snowpack below 1650 m and is breaking down into facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-30 cm of new, low density snow sits on stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at and above treeline. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down around 40-60 cm. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 60-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some reporting easy &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack sits a crust that formed in October. This crust seems to be more predominant on Northerly aspects at treeline and above. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow (up to 40 cm in some places) has buried older wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. The new storm slab is touchy to rider triggers, and natural loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain exists. Average snowpack depths at treeline range from 100 cm -150 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried down 40-60 cm is a surface hoar, and facet layer. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers and both cracking and whumpfing have been noted.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper down 70-90 cm, is the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust/ facet combo on steep south facing slopes and larger, proud surface hoar crystals in sheltered areas at lower elevations. This layer is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. However, professionals are keeping a close eye on this layer especially with forecast new load.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack the October crust is most predominant on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Overall the snowpack is weak and facetted at lower elevations. At treeline and above wind slabs are present in lee and cross-loaded features. In addition, concern remains for the October facet/crust/depth hoar layer. Whumpfing has been observed in recent days and confidence is low in the integrity of this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of snow fell on Monday with wind creating touchy storm slabs. Recent accumulations overlie generally harder wind-pressed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, a persistent weakness of surface hoar (possibly sitting on an old crust) is down approximately 40-70 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. With the current loading pattern, the slab sitting on top of this layer is gaining mass. This increases the likelihood of triggering large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 15 cm of new snow and strong westerly have winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 15-20 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, mainly causing loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 35 - 50 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. This layer is dormant, and there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Freezing levels rose to higher than expected meaning much of the precipitation that hit the North Shore mountains yesterday fell as rain. In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Yesterday brought another 30 to 40cm to the region.  The new snow settling rapidly due to the mild temperatures. We have no wind data from the region but given the expected strong to extreme winds we expect extensive wind slab formation in lee features.&nbsp; Total pre-storm snowpack depths in the region vary between 150 - 250cm. On December 20th Kasiks (Between Terrace &amp; Rupert) picked up almost 50cm while Bear Pass saw around 20cm. This snow rests on a variety of old surface layers down between 80-140cm: old wind slabs, a couple of crusts and surface hoar/facets that formed in early December.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The december week layers rests on stiff old wind slabs and melt freeze crust.  Below this The mid pack is composed of deteriorating layers of old facets and crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A significant basal facet and crust combo lingers near the ground and is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 111 cm base while the Ashman trailer is around the same. Treeline depths vary between 100 - 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 10 - 40 cm of new snow in the weekends storm. The upper snow pack is likely to be &quot; upside down&quot; as the new snow is sitting on top of 10 to 30 cm of cold snow from earlier in the week. Below 1100m the upper snow pack is rests upon a crust. Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar can be found above old wind slabs and melt-freeze crusts, formed during the December cold/dry spell. We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered by wind. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths at treeline are between 75 - 120cm. Alpine depths vary between 100 - 180cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're dealing with a complex snowpack in the Cariboo Mountains at this time. See this </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4G7d78hbfc&amp;feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> for a great visual.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack is a mixed bag of soft storm slabs and wind slabs, sitting above a variety of week old surfaces. Previously warm temps and as much as 85cm of snow through December have combined to form a cohesive mid pack on top of the November 28 surface hoar and facets. Snowpack tests are showing this layer pop with medium loads which indicates the potential for human triggering. There's not a whole lot of snow between riders and sugary snow (facets) near the base of the snowpack. In some places this crust facet combo is failing naturally. As a result you'll notice that there is a Persistent Slab problem on the front page. Human triggering of large destructive avalanches is possible at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very light (in the north of the region) to moderate (in the south of the region) amounts of recent snowfall now sit on a generally well consolidated snowpack. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where very touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits below about 30cm of recent snowfall. This will be a weakness to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Low density new snow covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/ crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Dribs and drabs of low density snow have fallen in the last few days and may have been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. Despite its reactivity in snowpack tests, we have not yet seen widespread avalanche activity on this layer. I suspect it only needs a little more additional load to turn this into a more serious avalanche problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A buried crust from mid-November can be found near the base of the snowpack below 1650 m and is breaking down into facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow (up to 40 cm in some places) has buried older wind slabs in exposed terrain at treeline and above. The new storm snow is settling quickly, however storm slabs have been touchy especially in wind affected areas. The average snowpack depths at treeline range from 100 cm -150 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried down 60 cm is a surface hoar, and facet layer. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers and both cracking and whumpfing have been noted.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper down 70-90 cm is the late-November interface, which consists of a sun crust/ facet combo on steep south facing slopes and larger, proud surface hoar crystals in sheltered areas at lower elevations. This layer is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. However, professionals are keeping a close eye on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack the October crust is most predominant on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of new, snow sits on stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at and above treeline. A weak layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust is now down around 40-60 cm. This layer has recently been reactive to riders and natural triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 60-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some reporting easy &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be &quot;stubborn&quot; to trigger. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack sits a crust that formed in October. This crust seems to be more predominant on Northerly aspects at treeline and above. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snowfall amounts have been highly variable throughout the region with southern areas receiving as much as 25cm throughout Sunday. Strong southwest winds have created pockets of touchy wind slab in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features, and scoured windward slopes. Roughly 20-45cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. In most places the more recent snow seems to be well bonded to this interface, but touchy instabilities have been reported from the Callaghan/Tricouni area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1cm of new snow in the past 24hrs. Strong winds continue to move some snow around at higher elevations leading to continued wind slab development on North and East aspects. The October layer of facets/depth hoar/crust remains a serious concern at the base of the snowpack, and this problem is unlikely to go away anytime soon.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall amounts have been highly variable throughout the region with southern areas receiving as much as 25cm throughout Sunday. Strong southwest winds have created pockets of wind slab which have most likely gained significant strength. Roughly 20-45cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas), spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain, and hard wind slab on south-facing alpine terrain. In most places the more recent snow seems to be well bonded to this interface, but the crust/facet combo was reported to be reactive to skier triggering in the Callaghan/Tricouni area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region up to 25cm of new snow has fallen. In this area the new snow reportedly saw little wind affect, fell at moderate temperatures, and has most likely gained significant strength. In the north of the region recent accumulations have been modest at best, although moderate to strong winds have shifted new accumulations into relatively small pockets of windslab. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where very touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds from the NW have built pockets of new wind slab on opposite slopes. Up to 40 cm of new snow sits on a surface hoar/ stellar / crust layer buried approximately 20 cm down, and has been very touchy to rider triggers. Around 60 cm down, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 60-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Near the base of the snowpack sits a crust that formed in October. This crust seems to be more predominant on Northerly aspects at treeline and above. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25cm of snow fell on Monday. Ongoing moderate winds have created slab conditions in lee terrain. Recent accumulations overlie generally harder wind-pressed surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At lower elevations, a persistent weakness of surface hoar (possibly sitting on an old crust) is down approximately 40-70 cm and reported to be widespread below 1500m elevation. With the current loading pattern, the slab sitting on top of this layer is gaining mass. This increases the likelihood of triggering large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mostly modest amounts of low density snow have fallen over the last week and may have been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and is most likely to pose the biggest problem for the region at the moment. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. Despite its reactivity in snowpack tests, we have not yet seen widespread avalanche activity on this layer. I suspect it only needs a little more additional load to turn this into a more serious avalanche problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A buried crust from mid-November can be found near the base of the snowpack below 1650 m and is breaking down into facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The weekends storm brought between 50 to 90cm to the region. With lots of snow available for transport strong westerly winds have likely loaded lee features at upper elevations. In many places these winds slabs sit on top of touchy surface hoar from December 22.. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack features several persistent weak layers that at this point have likely gained strength. The most noteworthy of theses may be the early December surface hoar and crust found in the top 100cm in areas with a shallower snowpack where it could still be a player. Below this the mid pack is composed of deteriorating layers of old facets and crusts. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A significant basal facet and crust combo lingers near the ground and is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're dealing with a complex snowpack in the Cariboo Mountains at this time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 150cm of snow can be found at treeline. Alpine snow depths vary between 1-2m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">With 40 to 60cm of snow now sits on a variety of old weak layer from early December: surface hoar, faceted snow, and/or a crust. Reactive wind slabs have formed in lee terrain and cross-loaded features at and above treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Previously warm temps have formed a cohesive mid pack on top of the late november surface hoar or facets. Snowpack tests results are varied but some are showing this layer pop with medium loads. This indicates a potential for human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're still receiving reports of the basal crust facet combo causing large natural avalanche to ground. As a result you'll notice that there is a Persistent Slab problem on the front page. Human triggering of large destructive avalanches is possible at this time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BB12189E">The few reports we have from the region suggest there is between 100-120cm of snow at treeline in the White Pass area.  However, strong winds have created highly variable snow depths across the region. In some areas, slopes are scoured down to rock (most likely south through south west) while others have been deposited by deep wind slabs (most likely north through east facing slopes).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BB12189E">Recently, roughly 20cm of new snow has fallen in the White Pass region. Strong winds have likely redistributed the storm snow into wind slabs on north through east facing slopes. Where the new snow overlies buried weak layers (surface hoar, facets and/or old wind crusts) from early in the month, conditions may be particularly touchy. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BB12189E">Deeper in the snowpack, a weak foundation to the snowpack exists, composed of facets and depth hoar. In some places, old, hard wind slabs likely overlie this weak layer. In these locations, the additional weight of a rider may be enough to trigger the weak layer below these hard slabs, particularly in shallower, rocky snowpack areas. If so, this layer has the ability to produce large and destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new storm snow covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/ crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> Up to 15 cm of new snow and strong westerly have winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 15-20 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, mainly causing loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 35 - 50 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. This layer is dormant, and there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 111 cm base with the Ashman trailer is around the same. Treeline depths vary between 100 - 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region picked up 10 - 40 cm of new snow in last weekend's storm. The upper pack is likely to be slightly &quot;upside down&quot; as the new snow is sitting on top of 10 to 30 cm of cold snow from earlier in the week. This snow is rests upon a crust that extend up to treeline and possibly beyond. This interfaces has been popping under easy loads in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered, forming windslabs in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed during the early December cold/dry spell can be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman . The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds from the NW have built pockets of new wind slab on opposite slopes. Up to 40 cm of new snow sits on a surface hoar/ stellar / crust layer buried approximately 20 cm down, and has been very touchy to rider triggers. The new storm snow is settling quickly, however storm slabs have been more reactive where there has been wind effect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried down 70 cm is the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface. Lately this has been more stubborn to rider triggers. The average snowpack depths at treeline range from 100 cm -150 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper 70-90 cm is the late-November layer, which consists of a sun crust/ facet combo on steep south facing slopes and larger, proud surface hoar crystals in sheltered areas at lower elevations. This layer is generally considered to be unreactive. However, professionals are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack the October crust is most predominant on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ongoing moderate to strong winds have redistributed recent storm snow creating generally wind-pressed surfaces and slab conditions in lee terrain at all elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar, facets or possibly an old crust is down approximately 60-90 cm. This layer was unreactive during the last storm cycle; however recent tests produced sudden/easy results at this interface on a northeast aspect at 1720m. Because of the variable nature of this layer, I'd dig down and test the interface before committing to any steeper, exposed lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 50 - 110 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mostly modest amounts of low density snow have fallen over the last week and have likely been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in the Harvey Pass area. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A buried crust from mid-November can be found near the base of the snowpack below 1650 m and is breaking down into facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate amounts of storm snow which fell Sunday have gained significant strength. Dribs and drabs of more recent snow may have been shifted into pockets of windslab by strong southwest winds. Roughly 20-45cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded to this interface thanks to ongoing moderate temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the south of the region up to 25cm of snow fell on Sunday and has most likely gained significant strength. In the north of the region recent accumulations have been modest at best, although moderate to strong winds have shifted new accumulations into relatively small pockets of windslab. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is significant variation in snow depths across the region. In the Smithers area the ski hill is reporting an 111 cm base with the Ashman trailer is around the same. Treeline depths vary between 100 - 200 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region has received up to 10cm of snow in the last 24 hours. Between 30 and 80cm of snow now rests upon a crust that extend up to treeline and possibly beyond. This interface has been popping under easy loads in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We don't have great wind stations in the region, but the coast saw a lot of strong wind during the last storm &amp; I suspect this region was similarly hammered, forming windslabs in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed during the early December cold/dry spell can be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman . The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We're dealing with a complex snowpack in the Caribou Mountains at this time. New snow will load the regions persistent weak layers which could reach a critical point tomorrow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 160cm of snow can be found at treeline. Alpine snow depths vary between 1 to 2m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is falling on a settling upper snow pack. 50 to 80cm of snow now sits on a variety of old weak layers from early December: surface hoar, faceted snow, and/or a crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Previously warm temps have formed a cohesive mid pack on top of surface hoar or facets from late November. Snowpack tests results have been varied but some are showing this layer pop with medium loads. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Freezing levels are going to be the thing to watch on Thursday.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the south were freezing levels are expected to climb as high as 2500m, rain will deliver a significant load to an already suspect upper snowpack. Further north continuing heavy snowfall and warming temperature will likely form widespread and reactive storm slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The December 22nd surface hoar is currently down 100cm in areas that did not avalanche during the last storm cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack features several persistent weak layers but these have likely gained strength at this point.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the north of the region a basal facet and crust combo lingers near the ground. It is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent northwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. 30-40 cm of new snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. This has has been very touchy to rider triggering. Around 60-80 cm down, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 70-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and above. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent winds from the NW have built pockets of new wind slab on opposite slopes. Up to 40 cm of new snow sits on a surface hoar/ stellar / crust layer buried approximately 20 cm down, and has been very touchy to rider triggers. The new storm snow is settling quickly, however storm slabs have been more reactive where there has been wind effect. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried down 70 cm is the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface. Lately this has been more stubborn to rider triggers. The average snowpack depths at treeline range from 100 cm -150 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Digging deeper 70-90 cm is the late-November layer, which consists of a sun crust/ facet combo on steep south facing slopes and larger, proud surface hoar crystals in sheltered areas at lower elevations. This layer is generally considered to be unreactive. However, professionals are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At the base of the snowpack the October crust is most predominant on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and consequential.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new storm snow covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> Up to 20 cm of recent new snow and strong westerly have winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 15-20 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, mainly causing loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 35 - 50 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. This layer is dormant, and there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Hard slabs overlying a weak facetted base is the main theme of the day.  With the warm temps, there may be some surface crusts at lower elevations on solar aspects.  Any avalanche that initiates is likely to involve the entire winters snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The stormy weather pattern continues with another 15-30 cm accumulating by Thursday morning (and more expected through the day). Temperatures have been mild with rain up to treeline in parts of the region. Winds have also been strong from the W-SW resulting in continued wind slab formation in exposed lee terrain. The December 22nd surface hoar layer is now over 100cm deep in southern sections and around 50 cm further north. This layer may have been flushed out in many areas, but remains a concern on slopes that have not released or where less snow has accumulated. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack features several persistent weak layers but these have likely gained strength at this point. In the north of the region a basal facet and crust combo lingers near the ground and is most prevalent on NW - E facing aspects at the upper TL and alpine elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The region has received around 20-30 cm of snow over the past couple days. Moderate to strong W-SW winds were likely during the stormy periods, forming dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain. Between 30 and 80 cm of snow sits on a crust that extends up to treeline and possibly beyond. This interface has been &quot;popping&quot; under easy loads in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December can be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">An additional 20 cm of snow has fallen accompanied by moderate to strong W-SW winds and mild temperatures. New dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Up to 80cm of snow now sits on a variety of weaknesses from early December (surface hoar, faceted snow, and/or a crust). An older layer of surface hoar or facets from late November can be found deeper in the snowpack. Recent snowpack tests results vary but some are showing this layer &quot;pop&quot; with medium loads, indicating a potential for human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general up to 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. A facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 60 - 130 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mostly modest amounts of low density snow have fallen over the last week and have likely been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas including the Harvey Pass area. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At upper elevations light to locally moderate of recent snow have been shifted into pockets of stiff windslab by strong southwest winds. Below treeline, rain has moistened snow surfaces. Roughly 25-50cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded to this interface thanks to ongoing moderate temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 50 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent moderate storm accumulations have now gained considerable strength and surface instabilities are likely specific to smaller, upper-elevation windslabs from light accumulations and steady moderate southwest winds. Below treeline light rain has moistened what little snow there is. Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong southwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. 30-50 cm of new snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-80 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 70-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of recent new snow in the past 5 days and strong westerly have winds formed pockets of soft wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 15-20 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, mainly causing loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 35 - 50 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. This layer is dormant, and there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong southwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. 20-40 cm of new snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-80 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 70-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences. Recent reports indicate that the average snowpack depth at treeline is 100-150 cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new storm snow covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong winds have redistributed recent storm snow creating generally wind-pressed surfaces and slab conditions in lee terrain at all elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar, facets or possibly an old crust is down approximately 60-90 cm. This layer was unreactive during the last storm cycle; however recent tests produced sudden/easy results at this interface on a northeast aspect at 1720m. Because of the variable nature of this layer, I'd dig down and test the interface before committing to any steeper, exposed lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern Sections: The Boxing Day blitz dumped another 50-80 cm of heavy snow, accompanied by strong southwest winds. Freezing levels peaked near 2000 m right along the coast and around 1400 m further inland towards Terrace. Recently buried weaknesses of surface hoar and/or facets are now well over 1 m deep and were likely flushed out or squashed by the heavy snowfall. Forecast cooling should help stabilize the snowpack and result in a surface crust forming below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern Sections: Storm snow totals are closer to 30-40 cm. Fresh dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. A recently buried surface hoar layer is now down around 50-60 cm and is likely primed for rider triggering. A facet/crust layer exists near the base of the snowpack, primarily on higher NW through E facing slopes. Triggering this layer may be unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals in the region are around 40-50 cm, with moist or wet snow below treeline. Periods of moderate to strong W-SW winds were likely over the past couple days. Expect dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. Between 40 and 80 cm of snow sits on a crust that extends up to treeline and possibly beyond. This interface was &quot;popping&quot; under easy loads in snowpack tests a few days ago. A new surface rain crust will probably form at lower elevations as temperatures cool tonight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December can be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">An additional 20-30 cm of snow has fallen accompanied by moderate to strong W-SW winds and mild temperatures. New dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Up to 80cm of snow now sits on a variety of weaknesses from early December (surface hoar, faceted snow, and/or a crust). An older layer of surface hoar or facets from late November can be found deeper in the snowpack. Recent snowpack tests results vary but some are showing this layer &quot;pop&quot; with medium loads, indicating a potential for human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general up to 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong west and southwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. 20-40 cm of new snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-80 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 70-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong winds have redistributed light amounts of new storm snow creating generally wind-pressed surfaces and slab conditions in lee terrain at all elevations. Rain at lower elevations has created wet surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar, facets or possibly an old crust is down approximately 70-100 cm. This layer was unreactive during the last storm cycle; however recent tests produced sudden/easy results at this interface on a northeast aspect at 1720m. Because of the variable nature of this layer, I'd dig down and test the interface before committing to any steeper, exposed lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong southwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. Up to 40 cm of new snow from the past 5 days sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-80 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 70-90cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 60 - 130 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mostly modest amounts of low density snow have fallen over the last week and have been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. In some areas rain has created wet snow surfaces below treeline. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas including the Harvey Pass area. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At upper elevations light to locally moderate amounts of recent snow have been shifted into pockets of stiff windslab by strong southwest winds. Below treeline, rain has saturated snow surfaces. Roughly 25-50cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded to this interface thanks to ongoing moderate temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 60 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At upper elevations steady southwest winds and modest accumulations have formed new wind slabs which may be reactive on steeper, unsupported lee slopes. Below treeline rain has moistened what little snow there is. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The snow continues to be blown away. At this point most alpine ridges are blown clean with lee areas blown in with windslabs of varying density (elevation dependant). In sheltered areas (TL &amp; below) the HS is shrinking and is still on the weak side. HS@burstall pass 75 and HS @ Burstall parking is 58. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent new snow in the past 5 days and strong westerly winds have formed pockets of wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 15-20 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, mainly causing loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 35 - 50 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. This layer is dormant, and there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow from the past 5 days covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. Average snowpack depths at treeline elevations are 100-130 cm. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">15 to 20cm low density Hn bonding poorly to previous surfaces which include mfc, hard slab and FC. Variable thickness mfc observed on East and North aspects where traveled today. Test profile at 2250m on East aspect, 32 degrees slope, gave CTM(12) sudden planar down 71cm. Very dense (P+) previously formed slab overlies facets and depth hoar in wind loaded feature at treeline. Whumpfing observed at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent Moderate to strong west and southwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. 30-50 cm of storm snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-90 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reportedly more stubborn to rider triggers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 80-110cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow from the past 5 days covers stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong southwesterly winds have built new wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. A very thin melt freeze crust can be found up to the treeline elevation about 25cm below the snow surface . Up to 40 cm of new storm snow from the past 2 days sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 70-100 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and has been reported to be stubborn to rider triggers.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 80-120cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 60 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At upper elevations previously steady southwest winds and modest accumulations formed wind slabs which may still be reactive on steeper, unsupported lee slopes. Below treeline rain has moistened what little snow there is. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent new snow in the past 5 days and moderate to strong westerly winds have formed pockets of wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 15-20 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, mainly causing loose dry sluffing from steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 40 - 60 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. This layer is dormant, and there is not a deep enough overlying slab to create a significant hazard. That said I'd recommend keeping it on the radar, especially as the snow load above increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At upper elevations light to locally moderate amounts of recent snow have been shifted into pockets of stiff windslab by strong southwest winds. Below treeline, rain has saturated snow surfaces. Roughly 25-50cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded to this interface thanks to ongoing moderate temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Storm snow totals vary across the region but are generally between 30 and 40 cm. Freezing levels peaked near 1600 m on Friday and have since dropped significantly. A new surface crust is possible at lower elevations. Expect to find touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. A couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) are now down 80-100 cm deep. Recent snowpack test results on these layers vary, but some are showing this layer &quot;pop&quot; with easy to medium loads, indicating a potential for human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general up to 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern Sections: The latest storm dumped 50-80 cm under mild temperatures and strong SW-NW winds. Much of the low elevation snowpack was washed away by heavy rain, as freezing levels peaked close to 2000 m in some areas. In the wake of the system there was brief clearing and cooling. This may have created a surface crust at lower elevations. Recently buried weaknesses of surface hoar and/or facets are now well over 1 m deep and were likely flushed out or squashed by the heavy snowfall. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern Sections: Storm snow totals are closer to 30-40 cm. Fresh dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. A recently buried surface hoar layer is now down around 50-60 cm and is likely primed for rider triggering. A facet/crust layer exists near the base of the snowpack, primarily on higher NW through E facing slopes. Triggering this layer may be unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow totals in the region are around 40-50 cm, with moist or wet snow below treeline. Periods of moderate to strong W-SW winds were likely over the past couple days. Expect dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. Between 40 and 80 cm of snow sits on a crust that extends up to treeline and possibly beyond. This interface was &quot;popping&quot; under easy loads in snowpack tests a few days ago. A new surface rain crust will probably form at lower elevations as temperatures cool tonight. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December can be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong winds have redistributed light amounts of new storm snow creating generally wind-pressed surfaces and slab conditions in lee terrain at all elevations. Rain at lower elevations has created wet surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A persistent weakness of surface hoar, facets or possibly an old crust is down approximately 70-100 cm. This layer was unreactive during the last storm cycle; however recent tests produced sudden/easy results at this interface on a northeast aspect at 1720m. Because of the variable nature of this layer, I'd dig down and test the interface before committing to any steeper, exposed lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 60 - 130 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mostly modest amounts of low density snow have fallen over the last week and have likely been shifted into small wind slabs in exposed areas. Located just below the surface is a layer of weak faceted crystals which formed during the cold snap at the beginning of December. At this point, there does not seem to be enough of an overlying slab to create a widespread problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas including the Harvey Pass area. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BB12189E">The few reports we have from the region suggest there is between 120-140cm of snow at treeline in the White Pass area. However, strong winds have created highly variable snow depths across the region. In some areas, slopes are scoured down to rock (most likely south through south west) while others have been deposited by deep wind slabs (most likely north through east facing slopes).</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BB12189E">In the last week, approximately 40cm of new snow has fallen in the White Pass region. Strong winds have likely redistributed the storm snow into wind slabs on north through east facing slopes. Where the new snow overlies buried weak layers (surface hoar, facets and/or old wind crusts) from early in the month, conditions may be particularly touchy. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BB12189E">Deeper in the snowpack, a weak foundation to the snowpack exists, composed of facets and depth hoar. In some places, hard wind slabs likely overlie this weak layer. In these locations, the additional weight of a rider may be enough to trigger the weak layer below these hard slabs, particularly in shallower, rocky snowpack areas. If so, this layer has the ability to produce large and destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">BTL snowpack still thin and weak. TL is a bit better with an average HS 65 and generally supportive. The recent storm snow has been blown around to form soft slabs in open areas. These are mostly unreactive, but that may change as the wind continues and terrain gets steeper. The alpine snowpack is the story of the day. Highly variable in both depth and quality. Hardslab on depth hoar, facets to ground and a skim of snow over rocks. The alpine has it all, and all within a ten meter area. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 10-15 cm of snow fell on Saturday night bring storm totals to around 50 cm in some areas. Winds have been generally moderate to strong from the SW-NW and temperatures have fluctuated. Expect to find touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline, and buried rain crusts below 1600 m. A couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) are now down 80-100 cm deep. Recent snowpack test results on these layers vary, but some are showing this layer &quot;pop&quot; with easy to medium loads, indicating a potential for human triggering.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong southwesterly and northwesterly winds continue to build wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. 30-50 cm of storm snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-90 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and is reportedly still variably reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 80-110cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are still keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong southwesterly and northwesterly winds continue to build wind slabs in alpine and treeline lees. A very thin melt freeze crust can be found up to the treeline elevation about 20-30cm below the snow surface. Up to 45 cm of new storm snow from the past 3 days sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals and/or stellar crystals. Around 70-100 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and continues to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 80-120cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent new snow in the past 5 days and moderate to strong west and northwest winds have formed pockets of wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 20-25 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, soft slab and loose dry avalanches in steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 40 - 60 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. As the load gradually increase and stiffens over top of this layer, it may well become more reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow from the past 5 days has been redistributed by moderate to strong northwest and southwest winds. These new windslabs cover older, stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline seem to vary from 60 - 130 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds have been strong out of the SW on Sunday at all wind stations.&nbsp; With 10 - 15 cm available for transport I expect wind slabs to be touchy on Monday.&nbsp; In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas including the Harvey Pass area.&nbsp;  Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer.&nbsp; We're probably getting close to this layers tipping point in wind loaded terrain at treeline in much of the region.&nbsp;  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 60 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">At upper elevations previously steady southwest winds and modest accumulations formed wind slabs which may still be reactive on steeper, unsupported lee slopes. Below treeline rain has moistened what little snow there is. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern Sections: The latest weather system dropped another 20-30 cm of snow (with more on the way), bringing the total snowfall over the past week to around 150 cm. The recent storm snow is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, with heavier snow on top due to warming at the tail end of the system. Winds were also very strong from the SW most likely creating fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at all elevations. Freezing levels climbed to near 1500 m resulting in moist snow or rain below treeline. Much of the low elevation snowpack has been washed away by recent rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern Sections: Another 15 cm of snow fell on Saturday night bringing the total snowfall over the past week to around 80 cm. Weaknesses may still exist within the recent storm snow. Fresh dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at all elevations. A recently buried surface hoar layer is now down around 80 cm and is likely primed for rider triggering. A facet/crust layer exists near the base of the snowpack, primarily on higher NW through E facing slopes. Triggering this layer may be unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The past few days have brought around 60-70 cm of storm snow with steady strong W-SW winds and fluctuating freezing levels. The most recent storm snow came in with rising temperatures and is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, meaning more dense on top. Expect touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features well into treeline. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman area. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to strong winds have redistributed light amounts of new storm snow creating generally wind-pressed surfaces and slab conditions in lee terrain at all elevations. Rain at lower elevations has created wet surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The Early December persistent weakness buried 70 - 100cm below the surface consists of surface hoar, facets and possibly an old crust. This layer was unreactive during the last storm cycle; however recent tests continue to produce sudden/hard results at this interface on NW - NE aspects from 1700 - 2000m.  Because of the variable nature of this layer, I'd dig down and test the interface before committing to any steeper, exposed lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Previously strong SW winds formed thin wind slabs in isolated terrain features that produced a few size one avalanches. Warm temperatures resulted in a melt freeze crust in place below 1800m. Roughly 25-50cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded to this interface thanks to ongoing moderate temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent HST has been redistributed to lee and cross-loaded features due to extreme West winds. Wind slabs are now prevalent in Alpine and open areas at treeline. The weak basal facets and depth hoar remain a major concern in the snowpack as this weak layer now has significant slabs overlying it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern Sections: The latest weather system dropped another 30 cm of snow, bringing the total snowfall over the past week to around 150 cm. The recent storm snow is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, with heavier snow on top due to warming at the tail end of the system. Winds were also very strong from the SW most likely creating fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at all elevations. Freezing levels climbed to near 1500 m resulting in moist snow or rain below treeline. Much of the low elevation snowpack has been washed away by recent rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern Sections: Weaknesses may still exist within the recent storm snow which is now totalling over 80cm in the last week. Fresh dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at all elevations. A recently buried surface hoar layer is now down around 80 cm and is likely primed for rider triggering. A facet/crust layer exists near the base of the snowpack, primarily on higher NW through E facing slopes. Triggering this layer may be unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The past week has brought around 60-70 cm of storm snow with steady strong W-SW winds and fluctuating freezing levels. The most recent storm snow came in with rising temperatures and is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, meaning more dense on top. Expect touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features well into treeline. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman area. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There appears to be a lot of snowpack variability across the region. Snowpack depths at treeline vary from 60 - 130 cm with high variability in wind-exposed areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds were strong out of the SW on Sunday at all stations &amp; our field team reports that alpine terrain has been heavily wind effected.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack is the late-November/early-December interface which is made up of surface hoar, a crust, and/or facets. This layer is typically down 30-70cm and has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas including the Harvey Pass area. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong southwesterly and northwesterly winds continue to build wind slabs on exposed alpine and treeline slopes. 30-50 cm of recent storm snow sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or crust. Around 60-90 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and is reportedly still variably reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 80-110cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are still keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on north-facing alpine slopes with smooth ground cover. Triggering this weakness is unlikely, however if triggered the resulting avalanche would potentially be a large event with high consequences. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 130cm reported at treeline in the Northern Cascades but only about 60 cm along the Duffy. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous weak interfaces within the snowpack appear generally well bonded and have been unreactive to recent snowpack tests. The exception to this seems to be in the north of the region where touchy surface hoar buried on December 12th sits about 30cm below the surface. This seems to be the interface to watch as the overlying slab develops. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds were strong out of the west on Monday, but with limited snow available for transport I suspect the resultant wind slab to be limited to terrain immediately lee of ridgecrest. The older wind slab problem has been largely healed by a warm to cold temperature swing and a few days time. This pattern has resulted in a melt freeze crust below 1800m that now has a skiff of snow on it. Approx. 25-50cm below the surface you may find a variety of old surfaces which formed during the early December cold snap. These surfaces include sugary faceted snow (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded to this interface thanks to ongoing moderate temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region, but are significantly lower than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent new snow in the past 5 days and moderate to strong west and northwest winds have formed pockets of wind slab on lee slopes. A layer of surface hoar is buried 20-25 cm down, and has been reactive with the new snow, soft slab and loose dry avalanches in steeper terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A little deeper (between 40 - 60 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. As the load gradually increase and stiffens over top of this layer, it may well become more reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity. A deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 30 cm of new snow has fallen since Saturday. Winds have been generally moderate to strong from the SW-NW and temperatures have fluctuated. Expect to find touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline, and buried rain crusts below 1600 m. A couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) are now down 80-100 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent moderate to strong southwesterly and northwesterly winds continue to build wind slabs on leeward slopes in the alpine and treeline. A very thin melt freeze crust can be found up to the treeline elevation about 20-30cm below the snow surface. Up to 45 cm of new storm snow from the past 3 days sits on a weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals and/or stellar crystals. Around 70-100 cm below the snow surface, the early December surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust interface sits and continues to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas. It is now buried 80-120cm below the surface. Snowpack tests vary on this interface with some results producing &quot;sudden&quot; shears and others producing no results. This interface is generally considered to be dormant. However, professional operators are keeping a close eye on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A weak layer of facets sitting on a crust that formed in October, sits near the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow from the past 5 days has been redistributed by moderate to strong northwest and southwest winds. These new windslabs cover older, stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness may be stubborn to trigger, especially in deeper snowpack areas, but the sensitivity to triggers likely increases in shallower locations, especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Treeline snowpack depths are typically 130-160cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Consistent Moderate to Strong SW winds Sunday/Monday resulted in wide spread wind slab formation in the alpine and exposed treeline locations. These stubborn wind slabs have not been particularly reactive though. The Early December persistent weakness is buried 70 - 100cm below the surface. It consists of surface hoar, facets and possibly an old crust. This layer was unreactive during the last storm cycle; however recent tests continue to produce sudden/hard results at this interface on NW - NE aspects from 1700 - 2000m. Because of the variable nature of this layer, I'd dig down and test the interface before committing to any steeper, exposed lines.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern Sections: The latest weather system dropped another 30 cm of snow, bringing the total snowfall over the past week to around 150 cm. The recent storm snow is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, with heavier snow on top due to warming at the tail end of the system. Winds were also very strong from the SW most likely creating fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at all elevations. Freezing levels climbed to near 1500 m resulting in moist snow or rain below treeline. Much of the low elevation snowpack has been washed away by recent rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern Sections: Weaknesses may still exist within the recent storm snow which is now totalling over 80cm in the last week. Fresh dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at all elevations. A recently buried surface hoar layer is now down around 80 cm and is likely primed for rider triggering. A facet/crust layer exists near the base of the snowpack, primarily on higher NW through E facing slopes. Triggering this layer may be unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20 cm of recent storm snow has been reported to be poorly bonding to the older snow below. A very thin melt freeze crust down around 60 cm can be found up to 2100 m or maybe higher. Snowpack tests have given mixed results on this layer with some indicating sudden &quot;Pop&quot; shears and some giving no shears. Around 80-100 cm below the snow surface, there is a layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust--this continues to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-130cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The past week has brought around 60-70 cm of storm snow with steady strong W-SW winds and fluctuating freezing levels. The most recent storm snow came in with rising temperatures and is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, meaning more dense on top. Expect touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features well into treeline. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman area. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued light amounts of snow accumulation brings recent totals to 10-20cm over surface hoar buried during Christmas. A little deeper (between 40 - 60 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. As the load gradually increases and stiffens over top of these layers, they'll likely become more reactive. Overall the midpack is well settled and reasonably strong; however, thin and variable snowpack areas are faceted and weak. In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity, but a deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent reports include moderate sudden planar compression test results down 30cm on small surface hoar, facets, or decomposing storm snow. The early December persistent weakness down 70-120cm recently gave moderate sudden planar compression test results where it was found down 70cm as surface hoar and facets on a NE aspect at 1900m, and moderate sudden planar deep tap test results down 90cm on a NE aspect at 1700m where it was found as large well preserved surface hoar. Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas are highly wind-affected with scoured areas, sastrugi, and deep deposits. At treeline, the snowpack is generally well settled, but definitely more stable in the Crowsnest and Elk Valley North than in the Flathead and Elk Valley South where the late-November persistent weakness of surface hoar, crust, and/or facets down 30-70cm has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary across the region and with elevation, but overall below average for this time of year. Wind-exposed areas are highly variable with scoured areas and deep drifts, and the snowpack below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Mid and lower snowpack layers include facets (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded, but continued settlement could make the slab more reactive before the facets gain strength. Below 1800m is a surface crust with a skiff of snow on it.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain new snow on the surface might be just enough to hide open crevasses where supportive snow bridges have not yet developed.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 165cm at treeline in the Cascades but only about 65cm in the Duffey Lake area. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Snowpack testing on a SSE facing slope at 2000m in the Duffey Lake area on Monday produced easy to moderate, sudden collapse compression test results, and a RB3, whole block release Rutschblock result down 20cm on the mid-December surface hoar, as well as moderate sudden planar and RB1 results down 46cm on the late-November facets where they were found above a hard crust. However, these weak interfaces appear generally well bonded in the Cascades.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northwest and southwest winds. These new windslabs cover older, stiff, dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. In the upper 80 cm of the snowpack a couple persistent weak layers exist, comprising of surface hoar and a facet/crust combo. This interface has produced variable results with snowpack tests, and operators are keeping a close eye on them as the load above increases and/or a slab develops.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region where the snowpack is thinner and more variable is weak faceted and depth hoar crystals combined with a crust from early October. This is now down around 80-120 cm. This deep persistent weakness appears to be more reactive in the north of the region. It is likely to be easier to trigger where the snowpack is relatively thin, and especially on steep, convex, north-facing slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">1 to 4cm of new snow overnight. Continued strong west winds add to the recently formed wind slabs on North, East and South East aspects in the Alpine and open areas at Treeline. Windward slopes have been stripped down to scree/rock. Major concen remains for the persistent weak basal layer of facets/depth hoar/crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 40 cm of new snow has fallen since Saturday. Winds have been generally moderate to strong from the SW-NW and temperatures have fluctuated. Expect to find touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline, and buried rain crusts below 1600 m. A couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) are now down 80-100 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths in this region average around 140-190 cm. 20 cm of recent storm snow has been reported to be poorly bonding to the older snow below. A weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or a crust lies around 30-50 cm below the surface. At around 60-90 cm, another weak layer exists. This one was buried early December and comprises surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust. It has shown variable reactivity in recent snowpack tests, but many professional operators are considering it carefully.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 70-110cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 60 cm of new snow has fallen in the last week.  Recent mild temperatures has caused substantial settlement of this new snow. This has created a slab around 20-40cm thick which may overlie softer snow creating an upside-down condition in the upper snowpack.  Areas of the region have seen moderate to strong winds from the SW-NW resulting in variable wind slabs. Expect to find touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. A buried rain crust exists below 1600 m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) are now down 80-100 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests.  This basal weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, may result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Alpine areas are highly wind-affected with scoured areas, sastrugi, and deep deposits. At treeline, the snowpack is generally well settled, but definitely more stable in the Crowsnest and Elk Valley North than in the Flathead and Elk Valley South where the late-November persistent weakness of surface hoar, crust, and/or facets down 30-70cm has reached the tipping point for rider triggering in a few areas. Check out this </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/surface-hoar-layer-in-the-flathead-subregion/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">video</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> of a recent snowpack test on this layer.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary across the region and with elevation, but overall below average for this time of year. Wind-exposed areas are highly variable with scoured areas and deep drifts, and the snowpack below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. A thin raincrust has been found down 20cm at 1900m and down 5cm at 1500m elevation. Small surface hoar down approximately 30cm is still producing easy to moderate shears during snowpack testing. Mid and lower snowpack layers include facets (which may overlie a crust in some areas) and spotty surface hoar in sheltered terrain. In most places the overlying slab seems to be well bonded, but continued settlement could make the slab more reactive before the facets gain strength. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Southern Sections: 40-50cm of new snow has fallen in the last 4 days. The recent storm snow is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, with heavier snow on top due to warming at the tail end of the system. Winds were also very strong from the SW most likely creating fresh wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at all elevations. Freezing levels climbed to near 1500 m resulting in moist snow or rain below treeline. Much of the low elevation snowpack has been washed away by recent rain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northern Sections: Weaknesses may still exist within the recent storm snow. Fresh dense wind slabs are likely in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features at all elevations. A recently buried surface hoar layer is now down around 80 cm and is likely primed for rider triggering. A facet/crust layer exists near the base of the snowpack, primarily on higher NW through E facing slopes. Triggering this layer may be unlikely, but if triggered the resulting avalanche would be very large and dangerous. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northwest and southwest winds. In the upper metre of the snowpack a couple of persistent weak layers exist. The upper one comprises surface hoar and is buried around 40-50 cm. The lower one comprises a facet/crust combo and is buried 80-100 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last 10 days have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack structure is highly variable with thin faceted areas maintaining deep persistent slab problems, and deeper snowpack areas harboring buried surface hoar. Recent reports include moderate sudden planar compression test results down 30cm on small surface hoar, facets, or decomposing storm snow. The early December mid-pack persistent weakness continues to give moderate sudden planar compression test results and has been found consisting of both large well-preserved surface hoar and large facets. Lower elevation terrain is reported to be highly faceted and has potential to produce significant activity when it receives enough load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 165cm at treeline in the Cascades but only about 65cm in the Duffey Lake area. In general, the snowpack across the region is significantly thinner than average for this time of year. Terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. Snowpack testing on a SSE facing slope at 2000m in the Duffey Lake area on Monday produced easy to moderate, sudden collapse compression test results, and a RB3, whole block release Rutschblock result down 20cm on the mid-December surface hoar, as well as moderate sudden planar and RB1 results down 46cm on the late-November facets where they were found above a hard crust. However, these weak interfaces appear generally well bonded in the Cascades.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The past week has brought around 60-70 cm of storm snow with steady strong W-SW winds and fluctuating freezing levels. The most recent storm snow came in with rising temperatures and is likely &quot;upside down&quot; feeling, meaning more dense on top. Expect touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features well into treeline. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Deeper in the snow pack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm in the Ashman area. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted. Depth hoar and an early season crust exist near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths in this region average around 140-190 cm. 20-40 cm of recent storm snow has been reported to be poorly bonding to the older snow below. A weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or a crust lies around 30-50 cm below the surface. At around 60-90 cm, another weak layer exists. This one was buried early December and comprises surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust. It has shown variable reactivity in recent snowpack tests, but many professional operators are considering it carefully.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 70-110cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of recent storm snow has been reported to be poorly bonding to the older snow below. A very thin melt freeze crust down around 60 cm can be found up to 2100 m or maybe higher. Snowpack tests have given mixed results on this layer with some indicating sudden &quot;Pop&quot; shears and some giving no shears. Around 80-100 cm below the snow surface, there is a layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust--this continues to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-130cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Continued light amounts of snow accumulation brings recent totals to 10-20cm over surface hoar buried during Christmas. A little deeper (between 40 - 60 cm below the surface) you may find a weak layer of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or a crust/facet combo on steep solar aspects. As the load gradually increases and stiffens over top of these layers, they'll likely become more reactive. Overall the midpack is well settled and reasonably strong; however, thin and variable snowpack areas are faceted and weak. In general, snowpack depths are below seasonal average with many slopes below treeline still reported to be below threshold for avalanche activity, but a deeper snowpack is likely in the northern part of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">4cm of Hn in past 24hrs. Wind slabs are present in Alpine and Treeline areas on North, East and South East aspects. The basal weak layers from October are still the principal concern in the snowpack. Full depth avalanches are possible.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow is expected to be poorly bonded, especially on wind-loaded slopes. Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 165cm at treeline in the Cascades but only about 65cm in the Duffey Lake area, and terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. In general the snowpack is shallow with a faceted and weak lower half, but also highly variable. Snowpack testing on a SSE facing slope at 2000m in the Duffey Lake area on Monday produced easy to moderate, sudden collapse compression test results, and a RB3, whole block release Rutschblock result down 20cm on the mid-December surface hoar, as well as moderate sudden planar and RB1 results down 46cm on the late-November facets where they were found above a hard crust. However, these weak interfaces appear generally well bonded in the Cascades.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 75 cm of new snow has fallen in the last week. Recent mild temperatures have caused substantial settlement of this new snow. This has created a slab around 20-40cm thick which may overlie softer snow creating an upside-down condition in the upper snowpack. Areas of the region have seen moderate to strong winds from the SW-NW resulting in variable wind slabs. Expect to find touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline. A buried rain crust exists below 1600 m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) are now down 80-100 cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 150 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 100-200 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests. This basal weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, may result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow has already started covering a variety of surfaces including surface hoar and windslabs above treeline. The expected heavy amounts of snow and strong winds from the W-NW is the reason the dangers rating is rising. With these conditions, expect a natural avalanche cycle. The persistent weak layers (PWL) that have been a concern to avalanche professionals but been unreactive to skier traffic could most likely become active again with the addition of this new load. These PWL consists surface hoar, crust, and/or facets down 100 cm. The bottom of the snowpack is also very weak in many areas creating the possibility of having avalanches running to the ground in shallower snowpack, rockier ground areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Heavy amounts of snow and strong winds from the W-NW is the reason the dangers rating is rising. With these conditions, expect a natural avalanche cycle. The persistent weak layers (PWL) that have been giving sudden planar snow test results but been unreactive to skier traffic could most likely become active again with the addition of this new load. These PWL are more reactive in the Flathead and Elk Valley South and consists surface hoar, crust, and/or facets down 50-90cm. The bottom of the snowpack is also very weak in many areas creating the possibility of having avalanches running to the ground in shallower snowpack, rockier ground areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The expected moderate snow accumulations, with the strong winds from the W and NW, is the reason the danger level is rising. The bond between the new storm snow at all elevation and new windslabs on E and SE in the alpine and at treeline with the old surface is likely to be poor and therefore, will need some time settle.  This new load could also awaken some deeper persistent weak layers situated between 50-70 cm in the snowpack which consists of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or crust/facets combo on steep solar aspects. If these deep persistent weak layers become reactive, very destructive avalanches could be triggered. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack generally unsupportive in untravelled terrain below 2000m.  Above this snowpack becomes more supportive and travel is easier.  In open areas expect to encounter windslabs overlying the previous midpack and generally 30-50cm of facets and depth hoar at the base of the snowpack.  CTM(sudden collapse) results were being encountered at the interface of the midpack to the facets and depth hoar down 50-70cm depending upon location.  The concern now is for low probability high consequence avalanches that have the chance of occurring from this snowpack areas.  Any avalanche that initiates is likely  to involve most or all of the winters snowpack.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths in this region average around 140-190 cm. 20 - 40 cm of recent storm snow has been reported to be poorly bonding to the older snow below. A weak layer consisting of surface hoar crystals, stellar crystals and/or a crust lies around 30-50 cm below the surface. At around 60-90 cm, another weak layer exists. This one was buried early December and comprises surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust. It has shown variable reactivity in recent snowpack tests, but many professional operators are considering it carefully.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 70-110cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong northwest and southwest winds. In the upper metre of the snowpack a couple of persistent weak layers exist. The upper one comprises surface hoar and is buried around 40-50 cm. The lower one comprises a facet/crust combo and is buried 80-100 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last 10 days have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is expected to be poorly bonded, especially where it is sitting on a thin ice crust. The snowpack depth and structure is highly variable but generally shallow and faceted, which is unusual for the south coast. Recent warm temperatures have promoted strengthening, but weaknesses under the past week's storm snow remain a concern, particularly on wind-loaded slopes. A crust/facet combo buried near the end of November remains the upper/mid snowpack feature to watch. Basal depth hoar in shallow snowpack areas also remain a concern, particularly on south aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind and storm slab problems in the south. A significant amount of recent storm snow is settling rapidly, but will likely remain unstable for at least a few days after the weather finally clears. However, persistent weaknesses including facets and surface hoar buried near the end of December, will likely remain primed for triggering. Basal facets remain a concern in shallow snowpack areas and an overlying snowpack structure favoring </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/stepping_down.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">step-down fractures</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> can contribute to the persistence of this deep slab problem.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses within and under the recent storm snow will likely take several days to settle and strengthen after the storm passes. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. Deeper in the snowpack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted with depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">25-50 cm of recent storm snow has been reported to be poorly bonding to the older snow below. A very thin melt freeze crust down around 60 cm can be found up to 2100 m or maybe higher. Snowpack tests have given mixed results on this layer with some indicating sudden &quot;Pop&quot; shears and some giving no shears. Around 80-100 cm below the snow surface, there is a layer of surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust--this continues to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-130cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">New snow is expected to be poorly bonded, especially where it is sitting on a thin ice crust. The snowpack depth and structure is highly variable but generally shallow and faceted, which is unusual for the south coast. Recent warm temperatures have promoted strengthening, but weaknesses under the past week's storm snow remain a concern, particularly on wind-loaded slopes. A crust/facet combo buried near the end of November remains the upper/mid snowpack feature to watch. Basal depth hoar in shallow snowpack areas also remain a concern, particularly on south aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind and storm slab problems in the south. A significant amount of recent storm snow is settling rapidly, but will likely remain unstable for at least a few days after the weather clears. However, persistent weaknesses including facets and surface hoar buried near the end of December, will likely remain primed for triggering. Basal facets remain a concern in shallow snowpack areas and an overlying snowpack structure favoring </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/stepping_down.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">step-down fractures</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> can contribute to the persistence of this deep slab problem.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses within and under the recent storm snow will likely take several days to settle and strengthen after the storm passes. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. Deeper in the snowpack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted with depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 35 cm of dense new snow fell since yesterday creating touchy storm slabs and triggering a small avalanche cycle last night. This fell with moderate W-SW winds which transported some of that snow on leeward alpine and top of treeline slopes to create windslabs. Loading will continue on E-SE slopes on Saturday as winds keep blowing during the day from the NW. Natural avalanche activity is still possible on leeward slopes in the alpine and top of treeline because of the storm snow available for transport. Below the storm snow, a newly buried surface hoar layer has produced some moderate sudden planar results. The older deeper surface hoar layer or facet/crust combo located around 80-100 cm below the surface did not seem to react to the significant storm load which is a good sign. It is still a good idea to keep digging down where it is suspected to linger, to ski test safe slopes and keeping an eye on deeper instabilities since snowpack is still highly variable and has shown a weak faceted base (sugary unsupportive bottom of the snowpack) is many areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">25cm of new HST over the past 24hrs has fallen on the previous snow surface which consisted of stiff windslabs, facetted snow and ground.  Easy shears are being found at the HST interface but a lack of wind (in areas travelled today) prevented any slab initiation.  Deeper in the snowpack the concern is for the midpack and basal facet and depth hoar interface.  Moderate to hard result are being encountered on this layer but they are a very sudden collapse indication that when a load triggers this weakness, its likely to propogate across a feature.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow is expected to be poorly bonded, especially on wind-loaded slopes. Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 180cm at treeline in the Cascades but only about 80cm in the Duffey Lake area, and terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. In general the snowpack is shallow with a faceted and weak lower half, but also highly variable. Snowpack testing on a NW facing slope at 2150m in the Duffey Lake area on Thursday produced easy sudden planar compression test results, and a RB2, whole block release Rutschblock result down 27cm on the late-December surface hoar, this layer now has an additional 15-25 cms since the Thursday evening storm. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In most areas the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm delivered 20 - 50 cm of new snow bringing the average regional depth to 160 - 240cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This new snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and numerous weak layers. Down 50 -100cm is the mid December layer comprised of surface hoar, stallars and/or a crust. Around 80 -140cm down is the early December surface hoar, faceted snow and/or crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays 10 - 20 cm of storm snow lies on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The upper one comprises surface hoar and is buried around 50-70 cm. The lower one comprises a facet/crust combo and is buried 90-120 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last 10 days have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 45 cm of new snow fell over the region with moderate W-SW winds creating touchy storm slabs and wind slabs on leeward alpine and top of treeline elevation band. Loading will continue on E-SE slopes on Saturday as winds keep blowing during the day tomorrow from the NW. Natural avalanche activity is still possible on leeward slopes in the alpine and top of treeline because of the storm snow available for transport. The storm snow interface has produced moderate snowpack test results and deeper surface hoar weak layers have produced hard test results. The persistent weak layers of surface hoar and facet/crust down 80-100 cm are a concern to avalanche professionals since triggering a fresh windslab or stormslab could step down to these layers and create bigger problems. Areas with shallower snowpack and rocky/planar slopes have also been reported as weak due to basal facetting (sugary, non-supportive snow at the bottom of the snowpack). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Thursdays storm brought 20 - 50 cm of snow to the region. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a buried rain crust that exists below 1600m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar or facets) that are down 100-150cm deep. I expect that there was a large natural avalanche cycle Thursday night. Expect to find touchy storm/wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline that should persist through the weekend. The last week has brought around a meter of snow. Happy New Year. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 175 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 125-250 cm in the alpine. In many places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season) so there's not a whole lot of snow between riders and the sugary snow (facets) near the ground. The basal facet/crust combo has been recently active in parts of the region and continues to give easy to moderate results in snowpack tests. This basal weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, may result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Thursdays storm brought 30 - 60 cm of snow to the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests. I expect that there was a large natural avalanche cycle Thursday night into early Friday. Expect to find touchy storm/wind slabs in exposed lee terrain at and above treeline that should persist through the weekend. The last week has brought almost a meter of snow. Happy New Year. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm left around 25 cm of new snow on the region with the heaviest amounts in the center of the region. Moderate winds have transported this new snow on NE facing slopes in the alpine/treeline and should continue loading E-SE slopes as winds keep blowing during the day tomorrow from the NW. Natural avalanche activity is still possible tomorrow on leeward slopes in the alpine and top of treeline because of the storm snow available for transport. In the mid-pack, persistent weak layers down 60-80 cm are a concern to avalanche professionals since triggering a fresh windslab or stormslab could step down to these layers and create bigger problems. These layers consists of surface hoar on sheltered slopes or crust/facets combo on steep solar aspects. Areas with shallower snowpack and rocky/planar slopes have also been reported as weak due to basal facetting (sugary, non-supportive snow at the bottom of the snowpack). </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weaknesses within and under the recent storm snow will likely take several days to settle and strengthen after the storm passes. A number of rain crusts may exist in the upper and mid snowpack, primarily below 1500 m. Deeper in the snowpack a layer of facets/surface hoar formed in early December may be found in the top 100cm. The mid and lower snowpack is still structurally weak and faceted with depth hoar and an early season crust near the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind and storm slab problems in the south. A significant amount of recent storm snow is settling rapidly, but will likely remain unstable for at least a few days after the weather clears. However, persistent weaknesses including facets and surface hoar buried near the end of December, will likely remain primed for triggering. Basal facets remain a concern in shallow snowpack areas and an overlying snowpack structure favoring </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/Encyclopedia/stepping_down.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">step-down fractures</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> can contribute to the persistence of this deep slab problem.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm delivered 20 - 50 cm of new snow bringing the average regional depth to 160 - 240cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This new snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and numerous weak layers. Down 40 -100cm is the mid December layer comprised of surface hoar, stellars and/or a crust. Around 70 -140cm down is the early December surface hoar, faceted snow and/or crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A lack of wind has left the storm snow relatively undisturbed at all elevations. The total storm snow amounts to 35cm's near the divide. The interface between new and old snow had a repeatable instability that shows up in stability tests (Compression test moderate(14) sudden planar). The snow beneath the new storm snow varies depending on elevation &amp; aspect. Alpine areas tend to have a windslab and treeline and below has a mix of isolated windslabs and facets. Deeper down the facet/depth hoar combo is still considered weak, despite the travel improving. In every sense of the word, the snowpack is considered to be variable.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">New snow is expected to be poorly bonded, especially on wind-loaded slopes. Snowpack depths vary greatly across the region with 180cm at treeline in the Cascades but only about 80cm in the Duffey Lake area, and terrain below treeline is still mostly below threshold for avalanche activity. In general the snowpack is shallow with a faceted and weak lower half, but also highly variable. Snowpack testing on a NW facing slope at 2150m in the Duffey Lake area on Thursday produced easy sudden planar compression test results, and a RB2, whole block release Rutschblock result down 27cm on the late-December surface hoar, this layer now has an additional 15-25 cms since the Thursday evening storm. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface at treeline elevations and below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">20-40 cm of recent storm snow has settled into a soft storm slab. In some areas the wind has transported this available snow into a moderately stiff wind slab at higher elevations. Ski penetration has been reported to be about 15 cm and foot penetration is about 25 cm in the alpine, and about 60 cm below treeline in weak facetted snowpacks.  Basal depth hoar in shallow snowpack areas also remain a concern, particularly on south aspects. Forecast warm alpine temperatures over the next few days may release weak cornices or loose moist snow from steep solar exposed aspects. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays 20 - 40 cm of storm snow lies on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The Mid December Surface Hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm brought 30 - 60 cm of snow to the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.&nbsp; The last week has brought almost a meter of snow. Happy New Year. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong to extreme NW winds forecasted for tomorrow is why danger rating is staying up again in the alpine tomorrow. Limited winds today have left the storm snow available for transport and reloading of slopes tomorrow. New windslabs could grow quite thick near ridge top and most likely be very touchy. Storm snow is settling but beware of the possibility of sluffing in steep sheltered terrain. Even though avalanche problems are starting to be more specific, I would still show respect to the deeper persistent weak layers that are still showing sudden planar results and have been suspected to be active during the avalanche cycle. For example, a windslabs could trigger a deeper slab avalanche in steep rocky terrain where basal facets and depth hoar exist. The surface hoar layer or crust/facet combo down a 100 cm is the other deep persistent weak layer that is still a concern to avalanche professionals. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm brought 25 - 60 cm of snow to the region. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a buried rain crust that exists below 1600m and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 100-150cm deep. The last week has brought around a meter of snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 175 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 125-300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in Friday's avalanche cycle. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depth has reached threshold for avalanches above 1200 m. elevation.&nbsp; The recent storm has left enough snow above that elevation to give the potential for loose snow to avalanches.&nbsp; The clear skies and warm temperatures forecasted for tomorrow and Monday will weaken the snowpack especially on steep S facing slopes. The fact that lots of obstacles are still very close to the surface and exposed at lower elevation could increase the consequence of being caught in an avalanche, even if it is small. Under 1200 m of elevation, the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Strong to extreme NW winds forecasted for tomorrow is why danger rating is being bumped up again in the alpine. Limited winds today have left the storm snow available for transport and reloading of slopes tomorrow. New windslabs could grow quite thick near ridge top and will probably be very touchy. Storm snow is settling but beware of the possibility of sluffing in steep sheltered terrain. Even though avalanche problems are starting to be more specific, I would still show some respect to the deeper persistent weak layers that are more stubborn but also more widespread and complex. A windslabs could trigger a deeper slab avalanche in steep rocky terrain where basal facets and depth hoar have been reactive to explosive control. The surface hoar layer or crust/facet combo down a 100 cm is becoming less of a concern to avalanche professionals and the newly buried surface hoar down 45 cm has not been reactive to ski tests.  In the lower below treeline area, there is a surface crust.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense W-NW wind event in the region created windslabs on lee slopes in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs are quite thick near ridge top and will still be touchy, especially later during the day on S facing slopes where sun will have been shining and with temperatures starting to warm up at higher elevations. Some slab formation was also observed below treeline in the top 5-20 cm with some cracking around the skis. Storm snow has started settling but beware of the possibility of sluffing in steep sheltered terrain. Even though avalanche problems have started localizing, I would still show some respect to the deeper persistent weak layers that are more stubborn but also more widespread and complex. The 2 natural avalanches size 2.5 that are suspected to have slid on the early December SH layer down is a good reminder of that. This layer would be more sensitive on N and NE aspects and is now down 90 cm. Basal facets weakness in shallower/rockier areas are also still mentioned by avalanche professionals. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 30 - 60 cm of snow to the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm delivered 20 - 50 cm of new snow bringing the average regional depth to 160 - 240cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">This new snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and numerous weak layers. Down 40 -100cm is the mid December layer comprised of surface hoar, stellars and/or a crust. Around 70 -140cm down is the early December surface hoar, faceted snow and/or crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays storm brought 25 - 60 cm of snow to the region. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a buried rain crust that exists below 1600m and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 100-150cm deep. The last week has brought around a meter of snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 175 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 125-300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in Friday's avalanche cycle. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow depth has reached threshold for avalanches above 1200 m. elevation. The recent storm has left enough snow above that elevation to give the potential for loose snow to avalanches. The clear skies and warm temperatures forecasted for tomorrow will weaken the snowpack especially on steep S facing slopes. The fact that lots of obstacles are still very close to the surface and exposed at lower elevation could increase the consequence of being caught in an avalanche, even if it is small. Under 1200 m of elevation, the snowpack is still below threshold for avalanches - meaning there is not enough snow on the ground to cover rocks, shrubs, stumps, and logs. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Winds that were forecasted yesterday did not effect the snowpack as much as expected, however there are pockets of windslab on E facing aspect slopes just below ridgetop in the alpine and top of treeline areas. Cornices also started building on the same aspect. In general, the storm snow is settling well in sheltered areas, the top dry snow is expected to keep sluffing in steep shady terrain and also on S aspects tomorrow as the sun and warm temperatures in the alpine weakens the surface. Cornices could also drop tomorrow with the warming of temperatures and sun shining on steep ridgetops. These could trigger pockets of windslabs that would be located under. The facet/crust layer down 80-100 cm at treeline and below treeline seems to be more active on E aspects. Yesterdays natural size 2 avalanche is a good reminder of that. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Yesterday's forecasted wind event did not do as much damage as expected. However, pockets of windslab most likely still exist below ridgetop in the alpine and at the top of treeline. I could see those being sensitive to skier triggering. In general, the storm snow is settling well in sheltered areas, the top dry snow is expected to keep sluffing in steep shady terrain and also on S aspects tomorrow as the sun and warm temperatures in the alpine weakens the surface. Cornices could also drop tomorrow with the warming of temperatures in the alpine and sun shining on steep ridgetops. These could trigger pockets of windslabs that would be located under. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down 80-100 cm is not so much of a concern since it did not react to the last significant storm load. However, the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack is still a concern and could be triggered by a heavy load like a cornice drop or a windslab avalanche stepping down to this deeper instability. This basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band on steep rocky slopes and if triggered, could lead to very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports of surface hoar and near surface facets growing over the past few days. Suspect that the sun and warm alpine temps will destroy these crystals on solar aspects, but these crystals may stay around long enough on shaded aspects to get buried this week by the next storm. Northerly outflow winds have stripped north aspects and developed sastrugi waves in open terrain. Forecast Southerly winds may strip South aspects if the warming leaves any snow available for transport, or press recently deposited snow into stiffer wind slabs. Buried surface hoar and/or a thin rain crust have been reported buried down about 40 cm in the West and South of the region. There continues to be concern for weak basal facets in isolated shallow rocky snowpack areas. Forecast warm alpine temperatures may release weak cornices or loose moist snow from steep solar exposed aspects. Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind and storm slab problems in the south. Isolated pockets of wind slab were reported due to recent moderate to strong Northwest winds. A new layer of surface hoar has developed below about 1100 metres. At 1900 metres elevation on an East aspect in the Shames area the height of snow was 193 cm. The recent storm snow has settled into about a 25 cm layer that is sitting above several laminated thin melt/freeze crusts. Moderate sudden planar shears were experienced in snowpack tests down about 40 cm in a weak facet layer that is sitting above a melt/freeze crust from Christmas. Deeper early December facetted crystals were found to be rounding and gaining strength in this area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400 metres elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be 155 cm. A new layer of surface hoar has been reported to be about 3-5 mm tall and developing during the recent clear weather. There are a couple of resistant planar shears in the top 25 cm that may be sliding on buried facet layers. The snowpack was found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 40 cm that were weak facetted crystals down to the ground. Other reports from Hankin confirm surface hoar development and moderate resistant planar shears in the top 20-40 cm. but found basal weak layer to be closer to 15-20 cm above the ground. Reports from the Southwest of the region describe more recent storm snow and more wind effect, with sastrugi in open areas and scouring on ridge tops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Cool temps have tightened up the upper snowpack and slowed the settlement of the new snow.  Rutschblock was done today by Field teams on a SE aspect at 2300m on a 35 deg slope.  The recent storm snow failed at 3 during the test and the main part of the block failed down 50cm at the &quot;midpack&quot; depth hoar facet interface.  See video </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.facebook.com/kcpublicsafety" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">here</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays 20 - 40 cm of storm snow lies on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The Mid December Surface Hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 130-170 cm in the South of the region, and from 80- 130 cm in the North of the region. The recent storm snow has settled down to about 15 cm in the Coquihalla and is reported to be bonding well to the old surface, however easy shears may be found in the storm snow where it was transported into a soft wind slab. In the Duffey lake area the recent storm snow is reported to be bonding to a thin crust. Below this crust weak layers of buried surface hoar are resulting in moderate sudden collapse type shears down 25-35 cm. The snowpack in the Duffey lake area has been described as &quot;unusually facetted and low density.&quot; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> A wind event created touchy windslabs on lee slopes in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs are quite thick near ridge top and will still be touchy, especially later during the day on S facing slopes where sun will have been shining and with temperatures starting to warm up at higher elevations. Storm snow is settling but beware of the possibility of sluffing in steep shady terrain and on steep S aspects. Even though avalanche problems have started localizing, I would still show some respect to the deeper persistent weak layers that are more stubborn but also more widespread and complex. The surface hoar layer down 90 cm would be more sensitive on N and NE aspects and the facet/crust layer would be more sensitive on S aspects. Basal facets weakness in shallower/rockier areas are also still a concern by avalanche professionals. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Quick tour in Hero's Knob area with travel restricted to areas BTL - weak unconsolidated base prevalent up to 2200m.  Some redistribution of snow beginning due to increased westerly flow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 130-170 cm in the South of the region, and from 80- 130 cm in the North of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent storm snow has settled down to about 15 cm in the Coquihalla and is reported to be bonding well to the old surface; however, easy shears may be found in the storm snow where it was transported into a soft wind slab. In the Duffey lake area the recent storm snow is reported to be bonding to a thin crust. Previously sun-exposed slopes are most likely sporting a melt-freeze crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below the recent storm snow, weak layers of buried surface hoar are producing moderate/sudden collapse test results down 25-35 cm. The snowpack in the north of the region has been described as &quot;unusually facetted and low density.&quot; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">We have received reports of surface hoar and near surface facets growing over the past few days. I suspect the sun and warm alpine temps have destroyed these crystals on solar aspects leaving a melt-freeze crust; but these crystals may stay around long enough on shaded aspects to get buried by the next storm. Northerly outflow winds have stripped north aspects and developed sastrugi waves in open terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Buried surface hoar and/or a thin rain crust have been reported buried down about 40 cm in the West and South of the region. There continues to be concern for weak basal facets in isolated shallow rocky snowpack areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The avalanche conditions will change quite radically in the next days with the heavy precipitation, strong winds and the relatively low freezing levels that are forecasted. The avalanche danger will start rising throughout the day tomorrow as the new snow accumulates on an icy surface above 1200 m. Windslabs will also form below ridgetop on lee slopes of SW winds. The bond within the new snow and with the old surface is most likely going to be weak. Expect natural avalanches to occur until this rapid change in conditions finds its balance. Ground obstacles like rocks and stumps will be very close to the surface of the snow and could be a hazard at lower elevations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind and storm slab problems in the south. At 1900m on an east aspect in the Shames area the height of snow was 193 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Isolated pockets of wind slab were reported due to recent moderate to strong variable winds. A new layer of surface hoar has developed below about 1100 metres. The recent storm snow has settled into about a 25 cm layer that is sitting above several laminated thin melt/freeze crusts. Moderate sudden planar shears were experienced in snowpack tests down about 40 cm in a weak facet layer that is sitting above a melt/freeze crust from Christmas. Deeper early December facetted crystals were found to be rounding and gaining strength in this area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the South (White Pass area), average depths of snow range from 100-120cm. Further north in the Powder Valley area, snow depths range from 90-100cm at treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent strong south winds have created highly wind affected conditions in the alpine and in exposed treeline locations. Fresh wind slabs have been deposited on north through east aspects and are reactive to the weight of a rider. In sheltered locations, 20-30cm of unconsolidated storm snow overlies various buried weak layers including a more recently formed layer of surface hoar which ranges from 10-40cm in depth. The distribution of this layer appears to be spotty, likely isolated to sheltered locations in the alpine and treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack in the White Pass is generally supportive. In comparison, the Powder Valley area the snowpack is shallower and weaker. A layer of surface hoar can be found 60-70cm down and is producing moderate to hard results in stability tests and showing signs of propagation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Digging deeper, near the base of the snowpack a weak layer of facets and depth hoar exists. This layer is more pronounced and weakest in the Powder Valley area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> A SW wind event created touchy windslabs on lee slopes and on crossloaded features in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs are quite thick near ridge top and will still be touchy. Storm snow is settling but beware of the possibility of sluffing in steep shady terrain. A surface crust exists on steep S aspects below treeline.&nbsp; Persistent weak layers (PWL) are still a concern to avalanche professionals. Multiple surface hoar layers located down 25cm, 40 cm and 90 cm are giving variable snowtest results and the facet/crust layer down 100 cm has given multiple sudden planar snowpack test results mostly on S aspects. The surface hoar layer down 90 cm would be more sensitive on N and NE aspects and the facet/crust layer would be more sensitive on S aspects. There is quite a variability throughout the region regarding the persistent weak layers. The Eastern half of the region area seems to be the most problematic. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Today's moderate and strong winds from the SE most likely created more pockets of windslab on lee side below ridgetop in the alpine and at the top of treeline. I could see those being very sensitive to skier triggering. Cornices have probably grown since this wind event as well.  In general, the storm snow is settling well in sheltered areas, beware of sluffing in steep shady terrain. S facing slopes have a thin solar crust at the surface and some surface hoar grew at the surface with the past clear skies in shaded aspects at treeline and below treeline elevation band. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down 80-100 cm is not so much of a concern since it did not react to the last significant storm load. However, the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack is still a concern and could be triggered by a heavy load like a cornice drop or a windslab avalanche stepping down to this deeper instability. This basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band on steep rocky slopes and if triggered, could lead to very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Today's moderate and strong winds from the SE most likely created more pockets of windslab on lee side below ridgetop in the alpine and at the top of treeline. I could see those being very sensitive to skier triggering. Cornices have probably grown since this wind event as well.&nbsp; The storm slab is settling but is still sensitive to human trigger, especially where a weak faceted snowpack is underlying that top fresh layer. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The facet/crust layer down 80-100 cm at treeline and below treeline&nbsp; and the depth hoar layer in the alpine seems quite reactive on E aspects. Multiple recent natural and human triggered avalanches on this aspect is a good sign of that problem. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thursdays 20 - 40 cm of storm snow lies on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 25 - 60 cm of snow to the region. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a buried rain crust that exists below 1600m and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 100-150cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 175 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 125-300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last Thursday and Friday. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm brought 30 - 60 cm of snow to the region. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's storm delivered 20 - 50 cm of new snow bringing the average regional depth to 160 - 240cm. This new snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and numerous weak layers. Down 40 -100cm is the mid December layer comprised of surface hoar, stellars and/or a crust. Around 70 -140cm down is the early December surface hoar, faceted snow and/or crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400 metres elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be 155 cm. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A new layer of surface hoar has been reported to be about 3-5 mm tall and developing during the recent clear weather. There are a couple of resistant planar shears in the top 25 cm that may be reactive on buried facet layers. The snowpack was found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 40 cm that were weak facetted crystals down to the ground. Other reports from Hankin confirm surface hoar development and moderate resistant planar shears in the top 20-40 cm. but found basal weak layer to be closer to 15-20 cm above the ground. Reports from the Southwest of the region describe more recent storm snow and more wind effect, with sastrugi in open areas and scouring on ridge tops.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Hasty profile at TL site on Little Tent Ridge on N asp.  HS 155cm, 20cm HST overlying 10cm P WSL  with 10cm FC below that layer.  1F-P slab overtop of 30-40cm basal FC's.  No Oct CR observed at this site.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50cm of recent new snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and numerous weak layers. Down 40 -100cm is the mid December layer comprised of surface hoar, stellars and/or a crust. Around 70 -140cm down is the early December surface hoar, faceted snow and/or crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 130-170 cm in the South of the region, and from 80- 130 cm in the North of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of old surfaces which may include surface hoar in sheltered terrain, wind-pressed snow in exposed areas, or a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the north of the region, recent storm snow is sitting on weak layers of buried surface hoar which formed in early December. Facets from December's cold snap also seem fairly widespread in this part of the region. In some areas, these facets may co-exist with a crust. In thin snowpack areas, the facets may exist at ground level. These persistent weaknesses may likely wake-up with new snow forecast for the rest of the week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Northerly outflow winds have stripped north aspects and developed sastrugi waves in open, high elevation terrain. Sheltered slopes at treeline have seen surface hoar development, while previously sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. New snow forecast for the week will cover these surfaces.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cold temperatures from early December have left weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. In higher elevation terrain where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. In lower elevation terrain or in shallow, rocky areas of the alpine, the facets are most likely more widespread and may exist down near the ground. Either way, the &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time, and may become reactive with forecast snowfall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of recent storm snow lies on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50cm of recent new snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong winds from a variety of aspects creating new wind slabs at the tree line elevation and above. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a buried rain crust that exists below 1600m and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 100-150cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 175 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 125-300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last Thursday and Friday. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50cm of recent new snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong winds from a variety of aspects creating new wind slabs at the tree line elevation and above. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snow has started accumulating already on the region. 20 mm in water equivalent is expected till tomorrow morning and 30 mm by the end of the day. This should fall as relatively heavy snow above 1000 m and will be redistributed by strong SW winds in the alpine. This amount of snow is expected to create a storm avalanche problem at higher elevation and providing enough snow in the below treeline elevation band to reach the avalanche danger threshold. The windslabs that will form on lee side of ridgetop which will most likely be very touchy for a certain time. Areas that have smoother ground surface will have the potential for bigger avalanches to happen. The storm snow will also need some time to settle and bond to the underlying icy surface. Natural avalanches danger will rise throughout the day since this rapid change in conditions will need to find its balance. Ground obstacles like rocks and stumps will be very close to the surface of the snow and could be a hazard at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Pockets of windslab on lee side below ridgetop in the alpine lee of SW and SE winds were reactive to ski testing yesterday and could still be sensitive tomorrow. In general, the storm snow is settling well in sheltered areas. S facing slopes have a thin solar crust at the surface and some surface hoar grew at the surface with the past clear skies on shaded aspects at treeline and below treeline. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down 80-100 cm is not so much of a concern since it did not react to the last significant storm load. However, the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack is still a concern and could be triggered by a heavy load like a cornice drop or a windslab avalanche stepping down to this deeper instability. This basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band on steep rocky slopes and if triggered, could lead to very large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are pockets of windslab on lee side of SE and SW winds below ridgetop in the alpine. The storm slab is settling but is still sensitive to human trigger, especially where a weak faceted snowpack is underlying that top fresh layer. The facet/crust layer down 80-100 cm at treeline and below treeline&nbsp; and the depth hoar layer in the alpine seems quite reactive on E aspects. Multiple recent natural and human triggered avalanches on this aspect is a good sign of this instability. When tested and observed, the surface hoar layer down 70 cm is showing signs of healing (grains are rounding and snowpack test are not as planar as they used to be).&nbsp; The South Rockies field team has posted a new blog with some good info and pictures about the recent avalanche incident and about current conditions. Click </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/category/southrockies/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> to read it. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recents SW and NW winds created touchy windslabs on lee slopes and on crossloaded features in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs will most likely still be reactive to skier triggering. Storm snow is settling well. At the surface in the below treeline elevation band, a sun crust exists on steep S aspects and surface hoar grew in shady areas.&nbsp; Persistent weak layers (PWL) are still a concern to avalanche professionals. Multiple surface hoar layers located down 25cm, 40 cm and 90 cm are giving variable snowtest results and the facet/crust layer down 100 cm has given multiple sudden planar snowpack test results mostly on S aspects. The surface hoar layer down 90 cm would be more sensitive on N and NE aspects and the facet/crust layer would be more sensitive on S aspects. There is quite a variability throughout the region regarding the persistent weak layers. The Eastern half of the region area seems to be the most problematic. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind slab problems in the south. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At 1300m on an east aspect in the Shames area the height of snow was about 190cm. Very light amounts of new snow now overlie a variety of old surface which include: settled storm snow, surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind slabs at upper elevations. About 30cm below the surface you may find several laminated thin melt/freeze crusts. Moderate sudden planar shears were experienced in snowpack tests down about 40 cm in a weak facet layer that is sitting above a melt/freeze crust from Christmas. Deeper early December facetted crystals were found to be rounding and gaining strength in this area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400 metres elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent strong winds have created significant wind effect at upper elevations, with sastrugi in open areas and scouring on ridge tops. Stubborn wind slabs are likely to exist in the lee of terrain breaks and in gullies. At mid-treeline elevation and below there seems to be much less wind effect, and significant surface hoar development has been reported.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack was found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Trace amounts of snow today. Not enough to change anything in the snowpack though. The snowpack is largely unchanged from yesterday. Wind transport is ongoing as is the slab development in the alpine and treeline elevations. HS @ Burstall Pass 101cm. HS @ Burstall parking 73cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 50-80cm below the surface from you may find at various depths a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 5 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. These sit on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In general the snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind slab problems in the south. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">At 1300m on an east aspect in the Shames area the height of snow is about 190cm. Light amounts of new snow now overlie a variety of old surfaces which include surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind-affected snow at upper elevations. Depending on your location, you may find a facet/crust combo or surface hoar about 50cm below the surface. Reports suggest these layers are gaining strength; however, they may be worth keeping an eye on with forecast storm loading over the next few days. Deeper early December facetted crystals were also found to be rounding and gaining strength in this area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400 metres elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow now overlie heavily wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations and well developed surface hoar at mid-treeline and below. The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 50-80cm below the surface you may find at various depths a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow now cover wind-pressed surfaces at upper elevations, surface hoar in sheltered terrain and a melt-freeze crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cold temperatures from early December have left weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. In higher elevation terrain where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. In lower elevation terrain or in shallow, rocky areas of the alpine, the facets are most likely more widespread and may exist down near the ground. Either way, the &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time, and will probably become reactive with forecast snowfall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 130-170 cm in the South of the region, and from 80- 130 cm in the North of the region. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of old surfaces which may include surface hoar in sheltered terrain, wind-pressed snow in exposed areas, or a melt-freeze crust on previously sun-exposed slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the north of the region, recent storm snow is sitting on a weak layer of buried surface hoar which formed in early December. Facets from December's cold snap also seem fairly widespread in this part of the region. In some areas, these facets may co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. In shallow snowpack areas, the facets may exist at ground level. These persistent weaknesses may likely wake-up with new snow forecast for the rest of the week.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The light snow amounts forecasted before the weekend and moderate winds from the W-SW will most likely create new windslabs below ridgetop in the alpine and cover older windslabs from previous wind event. Surface sluffing could also be possible within the new snow in sheltered areas. The facet/crust layer down 80-100 cm at treeline and below treeline and the depth hoar layer in the alpine seems ripe for skier or sledder triggering on E aspects. Multiple recent natural and human triggered avalanches on this aspect is a good sign of this instability. When tested and observed, the surface hoar layer down 70 cm is showing signs of healing (grains are rounding and snowpack test are not as planar as they used to be). The South Rockies field team has posted a new blog with some good info and pictures about the recent avalanche incident and about current conditions. Click </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/category/southrockies/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> to read it. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The light to moderate amounts of snow forecasted before the weekend and moderate winds from the W-SW will most likely create new windslabs below ridgetop in the alpine and cover older windslabs from previous wind event. Sluffing will also be possible in steep terrain where this new snow will be sitting on a surface hoar layer in sheltered areas below treeline. Note that this new surface hoar layer is sitting on a suncrust on S facing aspects in some areas. The p</span><span class="s_3FE45715">ersistent weak layers (PWL) are definitely a concern to avalanche professionals since they keep giving sudden planar results and show good propagation potential when tested. The end of November facet/crust or surface hoar layer down 80 cm (or 40 cm where snowpack is very thin) and the depth hoar or basal facetting are the most worrisome layers. Presently, they do not seem reactive to skier triggering but this situation could change with additional loading from the forecasted snow and wind.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The light snow amounts forecasted before the weekend and moderate winds from the W-SW will most likely create new windslabs below ridgetop in the alpine and cover older windslabs from previous wind event. Sluffing will also be possible in steep terrain where this new snow will be sitting on a surface hoar layer in sheltered areas at treeline and below treeline or on a sun crust on S aspects below treeline. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down 80-100 cm is not as much of a concern for now since it did not react to the last storm. However, it is important to keep an eye on it since a significant storm load is expected for the weekend. The depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack is also still on the radar and could be triggered by a heavy load like a cornice drop or a windslab avalanche stepping down to this deeper instability. This basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band on steep rocky slopes and if triggered, could lead to very large avalanches. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 40 mm of precipitation fell as of now since yesterday. This fell as heavy snow above 1100 m and has probably been redistributed by strong SW winds in the alpine. This amount of snow is expected to create a storm avalanche problem at higher elevation and providing enough snow in the below treeline elevation band to reach the avalanche danger threshold. The windslabs that will form on lee side of ridgetop which will most likely be touchy for a certain time. Areas that have smoother ground surface will have the potential for bigger avalanches to happen. The storm snow will also need some time to settle and bond to the underlying icy surface. Ground obstacles like rocks and stumps will be very close to the surface of the snow and could be a hazard at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50cm of recent new snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong winds from a variety of aspects creating new wind slabs at the tree line elevation and above. This snow lies on top of old wind slabs, a buried rain crust that exists below 1600m and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 100-150cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 175 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 125-300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last Thursday and Friday. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 10-25 cm of new snow overlies wind-pressed snow at upper elevations, surface hoar in sheltered terrain and a melt-freeze crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. Moderate to strong SW winds have probably formed new dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cold temperatures from early December have left weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. In higher elevation terrain where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. In lower elevation terrain or in shallow, rocky areas of the alpine, the facets are most likely more widespread and may exist down near the ground. Either way, the &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time, and will probably become reactive with forecast snowfall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 70-90cm below the surface from you may find at various depths a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that are variably reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 60-90cm below the surface you may find at various depths a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. These sit on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400 metres elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light to locally moderate amounts of new snow overlie heavily wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations and well developed surface hoar at mid-treeline and below. In some areas, the new snow has likely been shifted into pockets of wind slab in exposed terrain. The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals may exist down to the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Windslabs continue to develop on lee slopes at ridge tops and in the alpine. The recent storm slabs are settling but may still be sensitive to human triggers, especially where a weak faceted snowpack is underlying the top&nbsp; layer. The facet/crust layer down 80-100 cm at treeline and below treeline and the depth hoar layer in the alpine has been&nbsp; reactive on E aspects. Recent natural and human triggered avalanches on this aspect are a good sign of this instability. When tested and observed, the surface hoar layer down 70 cm is showing signs of healing (grains are rounding and snowpack tests are not as planar as they have been previously). The South Rockies field team has posted a new blog with some good info and pictures about the recent avalanche incident and about current conditions. Click </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://blogs.avalanche.ca/category/southrockies/" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">here</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> to read it. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Moderate to heavy amounts of snow forecast for the weekend with strong SW winds will create wind slabs at tree line and above. Sluffing may occur in steep terrain and could easily run on surface hoar in sheltered alpine areas and below treeline. This surface hoar layer is sitting on a sun crust on S facing aspects in some locations. The persistent weak layers (PWL) are a concern to avalanche professionals as they have been producing sudden planar results and show good propagation potential when tested. The end of November facet/crust or surface hoar layer down 80 cm (or 40 cm where snowpack is very thin) and the depth hoar or basal facetting are the most worrisome layers. Presently, they do not seem reactive to skier triggering but this situation may change with additional loading from the incoming storm, rising temperatures, and strong wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy wet snow will fall above 1000 m only to be redistributed by strong SW winds in the alpine. New snowfall is expected to create a storm avalanche problem at higher elevations and may providing enough snow below tree line to reach the avalanche danger threshold. For the most part, the snowpack below tree line is saturated with moisture.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind slabs will form on the lee of ridge tops and may be touchy until they slabs have time to bond to the older snow surface.. Areas with a smooth ground surface will have the potential for bigger avalanches. The new storm snow will need some time to settle and bond to the underlying icy surface. Natural avalanche danger will rise throughout the storm as this rapid change in conditions will need to find its balance. Ground obstacles like rocks and stumps may be close to the surface and present a hazard at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Moderate to strong winds continued in the alpine today. Wind loaded areas in the alpine are quite distinct at this point. Exposed ridges near tree line are blown down to scree in many areas. This means that at TL the windslab condition is still developing. The slabs are expected to extend well below ridge lines and of course cross loaded features will become more problematic. Once the terrain is sheltered the slabs begin to become softer and less frequent. Below Tree Line (BTL) the snow pack is still weak with ski penetration of 30-40cm's. Height of Snow(HS) @ Burstall Pass 100cm, Height&nbsp; of Snow(HS)@ Burstall parking 73, </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 10-20 cm of new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which may include surface hoar in sheltered terrain, wind-pressed snow in exposed areas, or a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. Recent moderate S-SW winds have produced new dense wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the north of the region, recent storm snow is sitting on a weak layer of buried surface hoar which formed in early December. Facets from December's cold snap also seem fairly widespread in this part of the region. In some areas, these facets may co-exist with a crust. In shallow snowpack areas, the facets may exist at ground level. These persistent weaknesses will likely wake-up with new snow forecast heading into the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 140-190 cm in the South of the region, and from 80- 130 cm in the North of the region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 50-80cm below that you may find a buried rain crust that exists below the 1600m elevation band and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 110-160cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 185 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 130 to over 300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last week. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the South (White Pass area), average depths of snow range from 100-120cm. Further north in the Powder Valley area, snow depths range from 90-100cm at treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind slabs formed by last week's strong south/southwest winds have most likely gained strength, but may be susceptible to rider triggering in steep, unsupported terrain. In sheltered locations well-settled storm snow may overlie a recently formed layer of surface hoar which ranges from 10-40cm in depth. The distribution of this layer appears to be spotty, likely isolated to sheltered locations in the alpine and treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack in the White Pass area is generally supportive. In comparison, the Powder Valley area the snowpack is shallower and weaker. A layer of surface hoar can be found 60-70cm down and has recently produced sudden results in stability tests. Due to limited observations, not much is known about its distribution and reactivity throughout the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Digging deeper, near the base of the snowpack a weak layer of facets and depth hoar exists. This layer is more pronounced and weakest in the Powder Valley area.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind slab problems in the south. Professionals in the area note there is much more snowcover variability this year compared to most years.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around the Skeena corridor light to locally moderate amounts of new snow now overlie a variety of old surfaces which include surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind-affected snow at upper elevations. Wind data suggests the new snow has most likely been pushed into healthy wind slabs in exposed areas. Depending on your location, you may find a facet/crust combo or surface hoar about 60cm below the surface. Reports suggest these layers are gaining strength; however, they may be worth keeping an eye on with forecast storm loading over the next few days. Below this, the mid and lower snowpack are mostly thought to be strong and well bonded in this area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent reports have shown wind slabs below ridge tops to be reactive to ski testing. S. facing slopes may have a thin solar crust buried by recent snowfall. In addition, surface hoar formed during the recent clear skies on shaded aspects at treeline and below . The facet/crust and surface hoar layer is now down around 100 cm and has not reacted to the last significant storm load. This could change with increased loading and temperatures that are forecast to rise during the next series of storms. Depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack are still a concern and could be triggered by increased loading. A cornice failure or a wind slab avalanche might step down to this deeper instability. This basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band, especially on steep rocky slopes, and if triggered, could lead to very large avalanches. Sluffing in steep terrain and wind slabs are the major concern at this time.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Another 20-30 cm of snow fell on Thursday night bringing a total of around 50 cm of storm snow sitting on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 70-90cm below the surface from you may find at various depths a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. These sit on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 35 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 50-80cm below that you may find a buried rain crust that exists below the 1600m elevation band and a surface hoar or facet layer that is down 110-160cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general 185 cm of snow can be found at treeline, with 130 to over 300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last week. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from older stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. 60-90cm below the surface you may find at various depths a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 120 - 180cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 20-30 cm of new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which may include surface hoar in sheltered terrain, wind-pressed snow in exposed areas, or a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. Recent moderate S-SW winds have produced new wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the north of the region, recent storm snow is sitting on a weak layer of buried surface hoar which formed in early December. Facets from December's cold snap also seem fairly feature of the snowpack in this part of the region. In some areas, these facets may co-exist with a crust. In shallow snowpack areas, the facets may exist at ground level. These persistent weaknesses will likely wake-up with new snow forecast heading into the weekend.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 140-190 cm in the south of the region, and from 80- 130 cm in the north of the region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The significant amounts of snow forecasted tonight and tomorrow, the strong SW winds redistributing this snow and warmer temperatures is increasing the avalanche danger for tomorrow. Windslabs lee of SW winds below ridgetop in the alpine and at treeline will be very touchy and the storm snow in sheltered areas will also need time to settle. Cornices will continue building and could fall with this additional load. Yesterday's 10-20 cm created some windslabs in the alpine lee of W-SW winds which could be hidden by the new snow that will fall tonight and tomorrow. When tested and observed, the surface hoar layer down 70 cm is showing signs of healing (grains are rounding and snowpack tests are not as planar as they have been previously).The facet/crust layer down 80-100 cm at treeline has been mostly reactive on E aspects and the depth hoar layer in the alpine is still concern especially where the snowpack is thinner.&nbsp;  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The significant amounts of snow forecasted tonight and tomorrow, the strong SW winds redistributing this snow and warmer temperatures is increasing the avalanche danger for tomorrow. Windslabs lee of SW winds below ridgetop in the alpine and at treeline will be very touchy and the storm snow in sheltered areas will also need time to settle. Sluffing is expected in steep terrain at all elevation and storm snow could easily run on the newly buried surface hoar in sheltered areas at treeline and below treeline. This surface hoar layer is sitting on a sun crust on S facing aspects in some locations and could be buried around 40 cm deep by tomorrow. The persistent weak layers (PWL) are a concern to avalanche professionals as they have been producing sudden planar results and show good propagation potential when tested. The end of November facet/crust or surface hoar layer down 90 cm (or 50 cm where snowpack is very thin) and the depth hoar or basal facetting are the most worrisome layers. Presently, they do not seem reactive to skier triggering but this situation may change with additional loading, rising temperatures, and strong wind. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Trace amounts of new snow overnight have already combined with the winds to start forming storm slabs  at the alpine and upper treeline areas. Cornices are appearing here as well. Near treeline ridges the winds have created a series of thin windslabs that are lamintaed together. Over all this layer 60cm thick. Below this hodge podge of windslabs are the facets from the cold snap awhile back. This interface is obvious and reacted to stability tests. The facet layer goes to ground. The october crust has rotted out and made depth hoar and facets now. It was on the ground and had no structure to it.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400m elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow now overlie heavily wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations and well developed surface hoar at mid-treeline and below. The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around 15-30 cm of new snow has fallen in the last few days and may overlie surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Ongoing moderate to strong southwest winds have formed touchy wind slabs in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cold temperatures from early December have left weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. In higher elevation terrain where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. In lower elevation terrain or in shallow, rocky areas of the alpine, the facets are most likely more widespread and may exist down near the ground. Either way, the &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time, and will probably become reactive with forecast snowfall.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind slab problems in the south. Professionals in the area note there is much more snowcover variability this year compared to most years.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around the Skeena corridor 10-25cm of recently fallen snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which include surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind-affected snow at upper elevations. Wind data suggests the new snow has most likely been pushed into wind slabs in exposed terrain. Depending on your location, you may find a facet/crust combo or surface hoar about 60cm below the surface. Reports suggest these layers are gaining strength; however, they may be worth keeping an eye on with forecast storm loading over the next few days. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this, the mid and lower snowpack layers are mostly thought to be strong and well bonded in this area.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Heavy wet precipitation forecasted for tonight with continued colder precipitation for tomorrow accompanied by </span><span class="s_3FE45715">strong winds coming for variable directions is creating dangerous avalanche conditions. Windslabs will form below ridgetop and will most likely be very touchy. The recent fluctuation in freezing levels and precipitation has created multiple layers of buried crusts, some of which has shown easy sudden planar results to snowpack test down 50 cm where the wet snow meets with a crust. S</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">nowfall is expected to keep developing the storm avalanche problem at higher elevations and provide enough snow below tree line to reach the avalanche danger threshold. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The significant amounts of snow forecasted tonight and tomorrow, the strong SW winds redistributing this snow and warmer temperatures is increasing the avalanche danger for tomorrow.  Windslabs lee of SW winds below ridgetop in the alpine and at treeline will be very touchy and the storm snow in sheltered areas will also need time to settle.  Cornices will continue building and could fall with this additional load. Yesterday's 25 cm plus the forecasted snow will be sitting on a thin solar crust below treeline on S facing aspects, on a surface hoar layer on shaded aspects at treeline and below treeline, or on buried winslabs in open areas in the alpine. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down around 100 cm and the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack have not reacted since a while. However, this heavier storm and windloading could wake it up creating a low probability but high consequence avalanche scenario.  A cornice failure or a wind slab avalanche might step down to this deeper instability. The basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band, especially on steep rocky slopes.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Saturday's storm clobbered the region with another 60-80 cm of snow. Around 80 -100cm of new snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces which may include surface hoar in sheltered terrain, wind-pressed snow in exposed areas, or a crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. Sustained moderate S-SW winds have loaded in exposed lee terrain and cross-loaded features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the north of the region, the recent storm snow is sitting on a weak layer of buried surface hoar which formed in early December. Facets from early December's cold snap are a fairly common feature of the snowpack in this part of the region. In some areas, these facets may have formed around a buried crust. In shallow snowpack areas, the facets may exist at ground level. This storms heavy loading will provide the first test of these deep weakness.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">These deep persistent weak layers do not seem to be as prevalent in the south where the early season snowpack was deeper and was not as affected by early December's cold temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 170-250 cm in the south of the region, and from 90- 150 cm in the north of the region. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's storm clobbered the region with another 60-80 cm of snow accompanied by strong winds (Whistler Blackcomb recorded gusts at ridge top up to 170km/h). A total of 60-80 cm of new snow has fallen in the last few days and may overlie surface hoar in sheltered terrain.  The unrelenting southwest winds have formed large and touchy wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cold temperatures of early December left persistent weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. At higher elevations where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. At lower elevations or in shallow, rocky areas of the alpine, the facets are most likely more widespread and may exist down near the ground. Either way, the &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Early season riding hazards such as rocks, stumps and logs are lurking below the surface in many areas, especially at lower elevations. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The snowpack seems shallower and more faceted in the northern part of the region, and deeper with more wind slab problems in the south. Professionals in the area note there is much more snow cover variability this year compared to most years.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Around the Skeena corridor 30-50cm of recently fallen snow overlies a variety of old surfaces which include surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind-affected snow at upper elevations. Depending on your location, you may find a facet/crust combo or surface hoar about 60cm below the surface. Report suggest these layers are gaining strength; however, they may be worth keeping an eye on as the snow load above them increases. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this the mid and lower snowpack layers area are reported to be strong and well bonded in most of the region however basal weaknesses </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20 cm of new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces ranging from stiff wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. These sit on top of old wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A bigger concern, especially in the Northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to become connected by one large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some parts of the forecast area have received up to 50cm of storm snow, which now overlies a variety of old surfaces ranging from wind slabs, to a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar from earlier in January  buried in the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">100cm or more below the surface you might find a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer is a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be180 to 200cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 50 cm of recent storm snow has fallen in the last few days bringing close to 70 cm of new snow sitting on a variety of older snow surfaces. ranging from stiff wind slabs to a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. Below that at various depths ( 1 metre plus ) there's a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. A late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and is now buried 90-160cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at treeline and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain). Their presence could, however, increase the size of a potential avalanche through step-down.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 60 cm of storm snow was very touchy today leading to a natural avalanche cycle at all elevations on all aspects. Windloading lee of strong westerly winds in the alpine and at treeline will keep avalanche conditions dangerous tomorrow. The new windslabs will most likely be very touchy and could possibly be triggered naturally. The storm snow is expected to have to potential to sluff in steep sheltered terrain.Cornices will continue building and could fall with this additional load. Yesterday's and today's significant  accumulation plus the forecasted snow for tonight will be sitting on a thin solar crust below treeline on S facing aspects, on a surface hoar layer on shaded aspects at treeline and below treeline, or on buried winslabs in open areas in the alpine. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down around 100 cm and the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack that have been dormant before the storm could also be awaken. A cornice failure or a wind slab avalanche might step down to this deeper instability. The basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band, especially on steep rocky slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 40 cm of storm snow was most likely very touchy today. The wind already started redistributing the snow and more windloading lee of strong westerly winds in the alpine and at treeline will keep avalanche conditions dangerous tomorrow. The new windslabs will most likely be very touchy and could possibly be triggered naturally. The storm snow is expected to have to potential to sluff in steep sheltered terrain. Cornices will continue building and could fall with this additional load. Avalanche professionals are still concerned that the facet/crust and surface hoar layer down between 70-100 cm and the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack could be triggered. These persistent weak layers are showing a high spatial variability and also some variable snowpack test results. In other words, they are spotty and moody. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">The facet/crust layer at treeline has been mostly reactive on E aspects and the depth hoar layer in the alpine is still concern especially where the snowpack is thinner. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around 70 mm is precipitation fell with the last system. Rising and dropping freezing levels left a thick crust on top of most of the storm snow. Today's and tonight's continuing precipitation as snow with strong SW and W winds will continue building windslabs below ridgetop and well below ridgetop into open areas. The new snow and the underlying crust will most likely need some time to bond together. Below treeline elevation band has reached the avalanche danger threshold but obstacles like stumps and rocks are very close to the surface of the snow creating extra hazards and increasing consequences if caught in an avalanche.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Windloading lee of strong westerly winds in the alpine and at treeline will keep avalanche conditions dangerous tomorrow.  The new windslabs will most likely be very touchy and could possibly be triggered naturally. The ~30 cm of snow from the last storm is expected to have to potential to sluff in steep sheltered terrain.  Under the new snow, a surface hoar layer is sitting on a sun crust on S facing aspects in some locations and could be buried around 40 cm. The persistent weak layers (PWL) are a concern to avalanche professionals as they have been producing sudden planar results and show good propagation potential when tested in the last week. The end of November facet/crust or surface hoar layer down 90 cm (or 50 cm where snowpack is very thin) and the depth hoar or basal facetting are the most worrisome layers. The additional load from the strong winds tomorrow could make them reactive again. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In some parts of the forecast area, as much as 50 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces, ranging from stiff wind slabs to a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. A rain crust below the 1600m elevation band should now be buried over a metre, and a surface hoar or facet layer is down 160 + cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general around 200cm of snow can be found at tree line with 130 to over 300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last week. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, will result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 40cm recent storm snow has fallen over a variety of different snow surfaces.  This snow fell under mild temperatures (-4C) and strong to extreme winds at all elevations.  As a result, new storm slabs have been quick to develop and have been rapidly overloading the weak basal facets that exist throughout the region.  Cracking along ridgelines and below ridgecrests was observed which is a good indicator of poor stability within the snowpack.  Warm temps will allow these new avalanche problems to settle out quickly but for the time being, we are in a period of poor stability. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A recent profile from 1400m elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20cm of new snow now overlies heavily wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations and well developed surface hoar at mid-treeline and below. The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Saturday's storm clobbered the region with up to 100 cm of snow accompanied by strong winds (Whistler Blackcomb recorded gusts at ridge top up to 170km/h). The unrelenting southwest to south winds have formed large and touchy wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline. A widespread avalanche cycle has likely cleared out much of the surface hoar from early in January.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The cold temperatures of early December left persistent weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. At higher elevations where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust in the mid pack. At lower elevations or in shallow, rocky areas of the alpine, the facets are most likely more widespread and may exist down near the ground. Either way, the &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere although now they are hiding under a meter of unsupportive storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Some parts of the forecast area have received over 50cm of storm snow, which now overlies a variety of old surfaces ranging from wind slabs, to a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar from earlier in January now buried in the snowpack between 40 and 60 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">100cm or more below the surface there is a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m elevation, as well as other buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer is a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be180 to 200cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain),&nbsp; an avalanche stepping down to this layer might dramatically increase the size of the avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Amounts of new snow are highly variable over the length of the forecast area, with the western parts of the range getting as much as 40 cm in the past 24 hrs, and the eastern and southern parts receiving 15 to 20. The new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces including older wind slabs and a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar. These sit on top of older wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers that exist in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. The mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A big concern, especially in the northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last two weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, as well as a tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to propagate over a wide area and produce large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reports suggest that the snowpack is shallower and more faceted in the northern of the region, in the south it is deeper with more wind slab problems. Professionals in the area note there is much more variability in snow cover this year compared to most years.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around the Skeena corridor 70-80cm of recently fallen snow overlies a variety of old surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind-affected snow at upper elevations. Windslabs are developing on north to north east lee features. Depending on your location, you may find a facet/crust combo or surface hoar from early in January sitting below the storm snow surface. Report suggest these layers are gaining strength; however, they may be worth keeping an eye on as the snow load above them increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below this the mid and lower snowpack is gaining strength. The exception is where a layer of week snow is lingering just above the ground in the shallower snowpack found in the North of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A recent profile from 1400m elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50 to 65cm cm of low density snow now overlies heavily wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations and well developed surface hoar or crust at mid-treeline and below.&nbsp; These layers will be something to watch as the overlying snow settles into a more cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">More than 75 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces, ranging from stiff wind slabs to soft facetted snow and/or surface hoar that was buried around Jan. 8th. A rain crust below the 1600m elevation band should now be buried over a metre, and another surface hoar or facet layer is down 160 + cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general around 200cm of snow can be found at tree line with 130 to over 300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last week. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, could result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received over to 50cm of storm snow that now overlies a variety of old surfaces. The most active appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar and low density snow above it. There are reports of fast/easy shears on this layer, now buried anywhere from 40cm to 60cm below the surface. There is also a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m elevation,and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer is a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be over 200cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain), but the consequences could be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">20-30 cm of snow fell since copious amounts of rain reached the top of the mountains. Rising and dropping freezing levels left multiple layers in the snowpack.  Windslabs below ridgetop and well below ridgetop into open areas could still be sensitive to skier triggering. The below treeline elevation band has reached the avalanche danger threshold but obstacles like stumps and rocks are very close to the surface of the snow creating extra hazards and increasing consequences if caught in an avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Accumulations forecasted tonight, strong W winds and rising freezing levels is keeping avalanche conditions dangerous for tomorrow. New windslabs lee of wind will take time to bond to the underlying surfaces, such as older windslabs in the alpine and previous storm snow in sheltered areas. The storm snow is expected to have to potential to sluff in steep sheltered terrain. Under the ~40 cm of recent storm snow, a surface hoar layer is present at treeline and below treeline and is sitting on a sun crust on S facing aspects. Some avalanches are suspected to have stepped down to this layer during the last avalanche cycle. The end of November facet/crust or surface hoar layer down 90 cm (or 50 cm where snowpack is very thin) and the depth hoar or basal facetting are still a concern. The facet/crust layer is most reactive on S and SE aspects slopes in the South-Eastern part of the region and seems to be more problematic on N and NE aspects in the central-Southern part of the region where the surface hoar was preserved. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Storm snow totals were around 30-40cm of snow but the strong to extreme SW winds have redistributed most available snow onto lee features and stripped many of the windward slopes down to minimal or no snow cover.  The new windslabs are sitting on a mixture of low density storm snow or the previous windslabs that had developed earlier in the week.  Lots of whumpfing was being experienced as forecasters approached more open terrain indicating the current snowpack is unstable.  The weak basal facets are still a large concern for us knowing that any avalanche that initiates it likely to involve the entire winters snowpack.  Thin weak are are plentiful but you should use great caution to avoid these areas.  Steeper terrain will not be the place to be likely until spring, sorry...</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">While the storm has passed in the North, local snowfall continues in the Coquihalla.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The weekends storm clobbered the region with between 80-100cm of new snow now. Sustained moderate to strong south to southwest winds have created thick and reactive winds slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the north of the region, the storm snow fell onto a week layer of surface hoar from earlier in the month. In areas with a shallow or rocky snowpack facets exist immediately above the ground. Although from the surface things are starting to look more normal for the coast, it is important to remember that the storm snow is sitting on a thin and weak midpack. The &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">These persistent weak layers do not seem to be as prevalent in the south where the early season snowpack was deeper and less affected by early December's cold temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 150-250 cm in the south of the region, and from 90- 150 cm in the north of the region. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere although they are now hiding under a meter of unsupportive storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Accumulations forecasted tonight and strong W winds is keeping avalanche conditions dangerous for tomorrow. The new windslabs lee of W winds below ridgetop will most likely be very touchy and could possibly slide naturally. Watch for loose snow avalanches in steeper terrain as well. Cornices will continue building and could fall possibly triggering big avalanches that could step down to deeper layers. The late November facet/crust and surface hoar layer down between 70-100 cm and the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack are suspected to have reacted to the recent storm load and avalanches may have stepped down to these layers. These persistent weak layers are showing a high spatial variability and also some variable snowpack and sledding test results. In other words, they are spotty and hard to predict. The facet/crust layer at treeline has been mostly reactive on E aspects and the depth hoar layer in the alpine is still concern especially where the snowpack is thinner. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> Accumulations forecasted tonight and strong W winds is keeping avalanche conditions dangerous for tomorrow. The new windslabs lee of W winds below ridgetop will most likely be very touchy and could possibly slide naturally. Watch for loose snow avalanches in steeper terrain as well. Cornices will continue building and could fall possibly triggering big avalanches that could step down to deeper layers. ~50 cm of storm snow is sitting on a thin solar crust below treeline on S facing aspects, on a surface hoar layer on shaded aspects at treeline and below treeline, or on buried winslabs in open areas in the alpine. At treeline and below treeline, this interface was not reactive to skier traffic today but was showing moderate snowpack test results. The facet/crust and surface hoar layer down around 100 cm and the depth hoar and basal facets situated at the bottom of the snowpack could be triggered by a heavier load like a cornice failure or a windslab avalanche. The basal problem is worse in the alpine elevation band, especially on steep rocky slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Obscured sky conditions limited observations regarding wind transport along ridgetops. Perfect combo of new snow, wind and mild temps creating new windslabs with variable thickness depending upon location and amount of snow in fetch zones.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Amounts of new snow are highly variable over the length of the forecast area, with the western parts of the range getting as much as 40 cm in the past 24 hrs, The eastern and southern parts have received 15 to 20. The new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces including older wind slabs and a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar from earlier in January. All of this is sitting on top of older wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. A mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A big concern, especially in the northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, and an alarming tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to propagate over a wide area and produce large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A recent profile from 1400m elevation on a Northwest aspect in the Hankin area shows the height of snow to be about 155 cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 50 to 65cm cm of low density snow now overlies heavily wind-affected surfaces at upper elevations and well developed surface hoar or crust at mid-treeline and below. These layers will be something to watch as the overlying snow settles into a more cohesive slab.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 75cm of storm snow that now overlies a variety of old surfaces. The most active appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar and low density snow above it. There are reports of fast / easy shears on this layer, now buried anywhere from 40cm to 60cm below the surface. There is also a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m elevation, and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecasters and professionals are concerned with 2 deeply buried weak layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">#1 The late-November persistent weak layer. It's a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be well over 200cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">#2 The October persistent weak layer consisting of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain), but the consequences could be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received over 70cm of storm snow, which now overlies a variety of old surfaces ranging from wind slabs, to a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar from earlier in January, now buried in the snowpack between 60 and 85cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">100cm or more below the surface there is a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m elevation, as well as other buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer is a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be 200cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain), an avalanche stepping down to this layer might dramatically increase the size of the avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm has brought 55 cm of snow and 100 mm of water equivalent to the region since last Thursday. This translates into a storm slab that is between 50-100 cm thick depending on elevation and exposure to the wind. Hard wind slabs have formed that may be above a well preserved layer of 3.0 mm stellar crystals. This weak layer of stellar crystals may persist for a few more days, or the forecast warm temperatures may help to bond the storm slab to the old surface. Hard wind slab avalanches or other heavy loads like cornice falls may step down to deeply buried weak layers from early in the winter season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">More than 75 cm of recent storm snow overlies a variety of old snow surfaces, ranging from stiff wind slabs to soft facetted snow and/or surface hoar that was buried around Jan. 8th. A rain crust below the 1600m elevation band should now be buried over a metre, and another surface hoar or facet layer is down 160 + cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general around 200cm of snow can be found at tree line with 130 to over 300 cm in the alpine. In some places we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season). The basal facet/crust combo, ( weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was active in an avalanche cycle last week. This weakness may be difficult to trigger but if triggered, could result in very large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense snow transport was reported from the Flathead area on the weekend. Expect extensive wind transport and wind slab development in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and I suspect that in some alpine areas storm snow has been transported into slabs that are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Very warm and windy conditions are expected to continue for the next few days. In the long term the warm temperatures should help with some settling and bonding of the buried weak layers. In the short term I don't like the hard wind slabs above weak layers with a rapid change in temperature.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last weekends storm clobbered the region with up to 100 cm of snow. This fell on a couple of layers of surface hoar found in sheltered terrain at and below treeline. The unrelenting southwest to south winds have formed large and touchy wind slabs in the alpine and at treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Although on the surface things are starting to look more a little more normal than they have it is important to remember that this latest snow fell on a fundamentally thin and weak snowpack. The cold temperatures of early December left persistent weak faceted crystals that seem to be variably reactive. At higher elevations where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust. At lower elevations or in thin, rocky alpine features more widespread facets exist down near the ground. This makes for a low probability high consequence avalanche scenario that is more commonly associated in the interior of the province. The &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere although now they are hiding under a meter of unsupportive storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. Below treeline the snowpack depth is generally below the threshold for avalanches. The snowpack is generally wet and solid. The winds have been strong and gusty, but there is no loose snow available for transport. There may be some wet loose snow falling from very steep terrain; sluffing at the most. If we see the sun in the next few days, we may see some loose wet slides up to about size 1.0</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reports suggest that the snowpack is shallower and more faceted in the northern of the region, in the south it is deeper with more wind slab problems. Professionals in the area note there is much more variability in snow cover this year compared to most years.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Around the Skeena corridor 70-80cm of settling storm snow overlies a variety of old surfaces including surface hoar in sheltered locations, and wind-affected snow at upper elevations. Windslabs are developing on north to north east lee features. Depending on your location, you may find a facet/crust combo or surface hoar from early in January sitting below the storm snow surface. Report suggest these layers are gaining strength; however, they may be worth keeping an eye on as the snow load above them increases.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below this the mid and lower snowpack is gaining strength. The exception is where a layer of week snow is lingering just above the ground in the shallower snowpack found in the North of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">10-20 cm of new snow in the past 24 hours has added to the storm slab. There is now about 50-80 cm above the January 8th layer of buried surface hoar and/or melt-freeze crust. Snow profile tests on the buried surface hoar layer have shown moderate sudden planar results. Deeper in the snowpack is a weak layer of surface hoar from the end of November, and in some areas depth hoar or basal facets near the ground. There is a great deal of variation across this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The weekends storm clobbered the region with between 80-100cm of new snow. Sustained moderate to strong south to southwest winds have created thick and reactive winds slabs extending far into lee features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the </span><span class="s_2823317B">north of the region</span><span class="s_AA239A9B">, the storm snow fell onto a week layer of surface hoar from earlier in the month. In areas with a shallow or rocky snowpack facets exist immediately above the ground.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Although on the surface things are starting to look more normal, it is important to remember that the new snow is sitting on a thin and weak midpack. This makes for a low probability high consequence avalanche scenario that is more commonly associated in the interior of the province. The &quot;wait 48 hours and you're good&quot; Coastal mantra does not apply as these conditions are likely to persist for some time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the </span><span class="s_2823317B">south of the region</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> where the early season snowpack was deeper these persistent weak layers do not seem to be as prevalent.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Snowpack depths at treeline range from 150-250 cm in the south, and from 90- 150 cm in the north. In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere although they are now hiding under a meter of unsupportive storm snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the White Pass area, snow depths of 150-160cm is average. Further north in Powder Valley, approximately 100cm can be found and 70cm in the Wheaton Valley at treeline elevations.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">25-30cm of storm snow in the White Pass area and rising temperatures has resulted in a widespread storm slab. In areas where this snow overlies weaker layers such as surface hoar, conditions may be particularly touchy. A significant storm in the forecast will add to the existing storm slab and strong winds will likely deposit deep wind slabs in lee terrain features, primarily north through east facing slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid pack is generally supportive in the White Pass area. However, in wind exposed, shallower snowpack areas the mid pack becomes thinner and less supportive. In these areas, the weight of a rider is more likely to trigger the deep persistent weak layer. Moving north, the mid pack is weaker and less supportive in the Powder Valley and Wheaton Valley.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Near the ground, a weak layer of facets and depth hoar can be found particularly in rocky, shallow snowpack areas. The additional load of forecast snow and wind could be enough to tip the scale, resulting in large, destructive avalanches.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind transport along ridgetops has been reduced due to the fact that most loose snow that was available for wind transport has been moved around - but some redistribution is till occurring.  A perfect combo of new snow, wind and mild temps has created new windslabs with variable thickness depending upon location and amount of snow in fetch zones.  In the Burstall area they varied from  20-50cm thick.  </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is now about 50-80 cm above the January 8th layer of buried surface hoar and/or melt-freeze crust. Snow profile tests on the buried surface hoar layer have shown moderate sudden planar results. Deeper in the snowpack is a weak layer of surface hoar from the end of November, and in some areas depth hoar or basal facets near the ground. There is a great deal of variation across this region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Intense snow transport was reported from the Flathead area on the weekend. Expect extensive wind transport and wind slab development in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and I suspect that in some alpine areas storm snow has been transported into slabs that are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Very warm and windy conditions are expected to continue for the next few days. In the long term the warm temperatures should help with some settling and bonding of the buried weak layers. In the short term I don't like the hard wind slabs above weak layers with a rapid change in temperature.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent storm snow amounts up to 100cm now overly a variety of old snow surfaces, much of it transported by the strong winds into stiff wind slabs.&nbsp; Below this is soft facetted snow and/or surface hoar that was buried around Jan. 8th. There is also rain crust below the 1600m elevation band&nbsp; that should now be buried well over a metre, and another surface hoar or facet layer is down 160 + cm deep. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now&nbsp; 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack (thanks to a windy early season and strong winds scouring slopes during the storm.). The basal facet/crust combo, ( weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground was likely the reason so many large naturals were reported during and after this last storm cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 100cm of storm snow that now overlies a variety of old surfaces. The most active appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar and low density snow above it. There are reports of fast / easy shears on this layer, now buried anywhere from 45cm to 80cm below the surface. There is also a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m elevation, and a couple of buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecasters and professionals are particularly concerned with 2 deeply buried weak layers. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">#1 The late-November persistent weak layer. It's a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be well over 200cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">#2 The October persistent weak layer consisting of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain), but the consequences could be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent storm has brought 55 cm of snow and 100 mm of water equivalent to the region since last Thursday. This translates into a storm slab that is between 50-100 cm thick depending on elevation and exposure to the wind. Hard wind slabs have formed that may be above a well preserved layer of 3.0 mm stellar crystals. This weak layer of stellar crystals may persist for a few more days, or the forecast warm temperatures may help to bond the storm slab to the old surface. Hard wind slab avalanches or other heavy loads like cornice falls may step down to deeply buried weak layers from early in the winter season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Wind event from the SW-NW have redistributed the older storm snow and created thick winds slabs extending far into lee features. These windslabs and the old storm snow in sheltered terrain could possibly become more reactive and create moist avalanches as freezing levels rise up tomorrow. This is especially the case for steep slopes getting hit by solar radiation. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">North of the region, the snowpack is still showing a very weak structure with a basal facet/depth hoar problem at the bottom of the snowpack that is producing some scary snowpack test results. This makes for a low probability high consequence avalanche scenario that is more commonly associated in the interior of the province. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">South of the region, where the early season snowpack was deeper these persistent weak layers do not seem to be as prevalent. I suspect a wide range of surface conditions depending on altitude. Moist snow, crust and windslabs are part of the mix. Developping windslabs lee of winds in the alpine and moist snow avalanches at lower elevations and on South facing aspects are the most concerning for tomorrow. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">60-100 cm of storm snow will have fallen above 1500 m. elevation with extreme W winds. Wet and saturated snowpack under this elevation should start receiving solid precipitation tonight as freezing levels drop. Thick touchy windslabs will keep developping lee of strong NW winds in the alpine and at treeline tomorrow keeping avalanche conditions very dangerous. At lower elevations, a layer of dry snow will cover a very wet snowpack which will could still be susceptible for wet slab avalanches or loose wet avalanches. This instability should not remain for very long since the lowering freezing levels will help stiffening up this wet layer.&nbsp; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Under the storm snow, the early January surface hoar layer or facet/crust combo is found in sheltered areas and is still a concern to avalanche professionals. Below this the mid and lower snowpack is gaining strength. The exception is where a layer of weak snow is lingering just above the ground in the shallower snowpack found in the North of the region.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. Below treeline the snowpack depth is generally below the threshold for avalanches. The snowpack is generally wet and solid. The winds have been strong and gusty, but there is no loose snow available for transport. There may be some wet loose snow falling from very steep terrain; sluffing at the most. If we see the sun in the next few days, we may see some loose wet slides up to about size 1.0</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Amounts of new snow are highly variable over the length of the forecast area, with the western parts of the range getting as much as 40 cm in the past 24 hrs, The eastern and southern parts have received 10 to 20. The new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces including older wind slabs and a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar from earlier in January. All of this is sitting on top of older wind slabs and a couple of persistent weak layers in the upper meter of the relatively thin snowpack. A mid December surface hoar is buried around 30-90 cm. The early December facet/crust combo is buried down 50-150 cm. Both interfaces give variable results with snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A big concern, especially in the northern part of the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar crystals at the base of the snowpack that lie above a crust from early October. Several large avalanches in the last weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, and an alarming tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to propagate over a wide area and produce large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received over 80cm of storm snow, now overlying a variety of old surfaces ranging from wind slabs, to a soft layer of facetted snow and / or surface hoar from earlier in January, now buried in the snowpack between 60 and 85cm. There are recent reports of shears in the new storm snow that may be the result of heightened wind activity or changes in the nature of the snowfall during the storm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">100cm or more below the surface there is a thin melt freeze crust below 2100m elevation, as well as other buried weak layers (surface hoar, facetted snow, and/or a crust) that continue to be reactive in snowpack tests. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two deeper layers of note. The late-November persistent weak layer is a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and now may be 200cm below the surface. The October deep persistent weak layer consists of a layer of facets sitting on a crust at the base of the snowpack. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. An avalanche stepping down to this layer might dramatically increase the size of the avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent wind event and forecasted strong winds from the NW will continue developping windslabs in the alpine and at treeline. Lee alpine slopes and open treeline areas will remain touchy tomorrow. Solar radiation on steep S facing slopes could also weaken the snowpack and cornices which could trigger fresh slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 60 to 75cm cm of low density snow now overlies heavily wind-affected surfaces and well developed surface hoar or crust in sheltered areas mid-treeline and below. The mid and lower snowpack are found to be generally gaining strength with depth until the bottom 20-40cm where weak faceted crystals exist down to the ground. The fluctuating freezing levels created a crust at lower elevations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Past and forecasted moderate to strong winds from the SW-W and NW have formed large windslabs in the alpine and at treeline and scoured windward slopes. I suspect these are bonding rapidly with the present mild temperatures.&nbsp; These windslabs and the old storm snow in sheltered terrain could possibly become more reactive and create moist avalanches as freezing levels rise up tomorrow. This is especially the case for steep slopes getting hit by solar radiation. What is not healing so rapidly is the underlying deep persistent weak layers of facets around crusts and basal facets. At higher elevations, where the snowpack was deeper, the facets likely co-exist with a crust. At lower elevations, or in thin rocky alpine features, more widespread facets exist down near the ground. This makes for a low probability high consequence avalanche scenario that is more commonly associated in the interior of the province. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In glaciated terrain open and poorly bridged crevasses are everywhere although now they are hiding under a meter of unsupportive storm snow.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong to extreme SW winds and warm temps have promoted rapid settlement of the snowpack over the past 24hrs.  Any available snow in Alpine terrain has been redistributed by the wind and deposited in lee features and along cross-loaded gullies. The additional load from the winds seems to be kicking off another cycle of natural avalanche activity mainly on N and E aspects as the basal facets become overloaded. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The North of the region received more storm snow over the past week than the rest of the region. The storm slab in the North is close to a metre thick and appears to be more touchy than in most of the rest of the region. The Rossland range has a shallower snowpack and weak basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above the weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in a period of fairly rapid warming of wind and storm slabs above loose weak layers. Periods of strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches and/or cornice falls which may result in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall amounts were highly variable throughout the forecast area, with the western parts of the range getting as much as 90cm in the past week. The new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces including older wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar buried in early January.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. Both interfaces give variable results in snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A big concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack. These crystals lie above a crust which formed in October. Several large avalanches in the past few weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, and an alarming tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to propagate over a wide area and produce large avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 90cm of storm snow which has been blown into dense windslabs in exposed areas. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces, the most reactive of which appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar. There are reports of &quot;sudden&quot; test results on this layer, now buried anywhere from 55cm to 90cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain), but the consequences would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack thanks to a windy early season and strong winds scouring slopes during recent storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 100cm of storm snow fell over the past week and has been blown into stiff wind slabs in many areas. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find soft facetted snow and/or surface hoar buried around January 8th. This layer may coexist with a crust at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar layers buried in November and early December may still be found in the mid to lower snowpack, but are generally considered to be unlikely to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo ( weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas and was likely the reason so many large naturals were reported during and after this last storm cycle. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main concern for the coming days is the unusual warming and solar radiation shock that the snowpack will take. This will weaken the snowpack and most likely increase natural avalanche activity on SE and S aspects, but also in shaded areas because of temperatures rising to plus 5 C in the alpine! As well as surface wet slabs and loose snow avalanches, there is the possibility of it stepping down to a deeper persistent weak layer (PWL) especially in the Northern part of the region. These PWLs are most problematic especially in shallower snowpack areas at treeline. Multiple avalanches just ran on the weak basal facet layer recently and whumphing (sudden settlement) were reported yesterday. An early January surface hoar is also buried under ~50 cm of the storm slab in sheltered areas at treeline and below treeline. In the southern part of the region, where the early season snowpack was deeper, these persistent weak layers do not seem to be as prevalent. However, temperatures and solar radiation will be even stronger in this part of the region, making wet slabs and loose avalanches even more probable. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent wind event and forecasted strong winds from the NW will continue developping windslabs in the alpine and at top of treeline elevation band tomorrow which will most likely remain touchy during the day. Below 1500 m, yesterday’s heavy rain soaked the snowpack creating a crust and very bad skiing conditions. I suspect that buried surface hoar layer at treeline and basal facets on thin rocky features will keep healing with these mild temperatures. However, it is a good idea to keep looking for it, testing it and avoid steep unsupported terrain where the surface hoar layer is suspected to exist. Watch for solar radiation on steep S facing slopes and temperatures warming tomorrow.&nbsp; This would result in weakening the snowpack and cornices which could trigger fresh slabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the Northern part of the region, the moderate snow accumulation, strong winds and rising temperatures forecasted for tomorrow will most likely keep avalanche conditions active. Storm slab will keep developing as well as windslabs in the alpine and at top of treeline lee of SW winds. It is possible that avalanches in the storm snow or in a windslab could step down to the 80-100 cm surface hoar layer that was buried in early January at treeline or to the basal facets mostly in thin, rocky alpine features. In the longer term, these deep instabilities should gain strength with the mild temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">South of Steward, the main concern will be developping windslabs lee of SW winds in the alpine which will most likely be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">For the whole region, the rise in temperature will weaken the snowpack and could act as a trigger especially above 1500 m where the storm snow and windslabs will receive a heat shock. If the sun comes out, I expect steep S-SE facing slopes to see increase avalanche activity. Under this elevation, a rain crust has formed but warm temperatures could create the possibility of loose wet avalanches as the surface keeps heating up.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. Below treeline the snowpack depth is generally below the threshold for avalanches. The snowpack is generally wet and solid. The winds have been strong and gusty, but there is no loose snow available for transport. There may be some wet loose snow falling from very steep terrain; sluffing at the most. Forecast very warm temperatures are expected to continue to cause settlement.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very strong Northwest winds continue to transport snow and create sastrugi in fetch zones. The recent storm has brought 55 cm of snow and 100 mm of water equivalent to the region since last Thursday. This translates into a storm slab that is between 50-100 cm thick depending on elevation and exposure to the wind. Hard wind slabs have formed that may be above a well preserved layer of 3.0 mm stellar crystals. This weak layer of stellar crystals may persist for a few more days, or the forecast warm temperatures may help to bond the storm slab to the old surface. Hard wind slab avalanches or other heavy loads like cornice falls may step down to deeply buried weak layers from early in the winter season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect extensive wind transport and wind slab development in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and I suspect that in some alpine areas storm snow has been transported into slabs that are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that may trigger the persistent weak layers or the basal depth hoar. Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 100cm of storm snow which has been blown into dense windslabs in exposed areas. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces, the most reactive of which appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar. There are reports of &quot;sudden&quot; test results on this layer, now buried anywhere from 55cm to 100cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes directly triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain), but the consequences would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern for the coming days is the unusual warming and solar radiation shock that the snowpack will take. This will weaken the snowpack and cornices which will most likely increase natural avalanche activity on SE and S aspects, but also in shaded areas because of temperatures rising to plus 5 C in the alpine! As well as surface wet slabs and loose snow avalanches, there is the possibility of it stepping down to a deeper persistent weak layer (PWL) . </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The late November facet/crust combo and the basal facets could be triggered by a heavy load such as a cornice drop or an avalanche stepping down. The basal weakness is mostly in the alpine in shallow rocky areas. The facet/crust layer is found in the alpine and at treeline elevation band. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The North of the region received more storm snow over the past week than the rest of the region. The storm slab in the North is close to a metre thick and appears to be more touchy than in most of the rest of the region. The Rossland range has a shallower snowpack and weak basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above the weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in a period of fairly rapid warming of wind and storm slabs above loose weak layers. Periods of strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches and/or cornice falls which may result in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The winds shifted to the Southwest today, however I suspect that there is little snow left available for transport. Higher elevations have been reported to be very heavily wind effected with sastrugi waves, stripped fetches, and stiff wind slabs. Last weeks storm slab has been reported to be sitting on a mixture of crystal forms (preserved stellar size 3.0, graupel, or surface hoar) across the region. The bond between the storm snow and wind slabs has become more stubborn to trigger in the past few days. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may initially result in increased triggering of the recent storm slab or wind slabs. Loose wet snow on solar aspects and cornice falls may result in large additional loads that may trigger avalanches on deeper buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect extensive wind transport and wind slab development in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and I suspect that in some alpine areas storm snow has been transported into slabs that are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that may trigger the persistent weak layers or the basal depth hoar. Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The increased solar radiation and warming trend&nbsp; is keeping avalanche conditions elevated for tomorrow. The intense heat will weaken the surface of the snowpack and most likely increase avalanche activity on all aspects, but especially on S and SE aspects slopes when the sun comes out. There is a possibility that loose wet or slabs could step down to deeper instabilities.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The past wind event has created extensive windslabs in the alpine and at treeline.&nbsp; Those settled rapidly with the mild temperatures but could become more sensitive with the forecasted warm temperatures and solar radiation.&nbsp; The buried surface hoar layer at treeline and the basal facets in thin rocky areas at treeline and in the alpine could become more reactive with the forecasted heat shock. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The increased solar radiation and warming trend for tomorrow is driving the avalanche danger. The intense heat will weaken the surface of the snowpack and most likely increase avalanche activity on all aspects, but especially on S and SE aspects slopes when the sun comes out. There is a possibility that loose wet or slabs could step down to deeper instability, especially in the Northern part of the region.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the North, the early January surface hoar buried at around 1 m deep at treeline and below treeline is showing to be a main concern since it has proved to be very active during the last storm, even on low angled terrain. The basal facets also became reactive in the last rapid loading. These are found in the alpine and at treeline under over 2 m of snow in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weak layers mentioned above are also found in the Southern part of the region,but are not showing as much reactivity.  The extensive windslab formation that happened during the SW wind event have most likely started to bond to the underlying surface in the alpine and at treeline. However, expect steep crossloaded or steep lee features to weaken during the day especially if the sun hits those slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">50-60 cm new snow has been added to the snowpack in the White Pass area over the last 5 days or so bringing treeline snowpack depths to around 180 cm. The relatively warm snow has likely set up into a firm storm slab layer that may be as thick as 60 cm in places where it overlies previous storm snow. Extreme SSW Winds have loaded slopes on N through E aspects with thicker deposits of wind slab. There may still be some buried surface hoar crystals lurking below the storm slab layers, and where these exist the upper snowpack will remain quite touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid pack is generally supportive in the White Pass area and has probably improved further with the recent weight of new snow. You'd probably need a heavy trigger (such as a cornice fall) on a thin spot to trigger the deep persistent weak layer near White Pass. However, further north in the Powder Valley area and the Wheaton Valley, the mid pack is weaker and less supportive. In these areas snow depths are approximately 120 cm and 80 cm, respectively. Recent observations have indicated loading from new snow (and presumably by a rider) can readily trigger avalanches on weak basal depth hoar in the Wheaton Valley.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 100cm of recent storm snow which has been blown into dense windslabs in exposed areas. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces, the most reactive of which appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar. There are reports of &quot;sudden&quot; test results on this layer, now buried anywhere from 55cm to 100cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid warming, cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong to extreme SW winds and warm temps have promoted rapid settlement of the snowpack over the past 48hrs. Any available snow in Alpine terrain has been redistributed by the wind and deposited in lee features and along cross-loaded gullies. The additional load from the winds seems to be kicking off another cycle of natural avalanche activity mainly on N and E aspects as the basal facets become overloaded. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is not enough snow at lower elevations for avalanches, however the forecast very warm temperatures may cause the snow to become very wet and slushy. Wet and slushy snow may slide off of steep cut banks or rocky cliffs. Near ridge tops where there is enough snow for avalanches, the snow has settled into a very solid snowpack. Very warm temperatures may cause this snow to also become slushy and loose strength resulting in loose wet avalanches. Loose wet snow may slide out of very steep terrain like cut banks and creek sides, or out of rocky cliffs. The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent snowfall amounts were highly variable throughout the forecast area, with the western parts of the range getting as much as 90cm in the past week. The new snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces including older wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar buried in early January.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. Both interfaces give variable results in snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack. These crystals may coexist with a crust which formed in October. Several large avalanches in the past few weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, and an alarming tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to propagate over a wide area and produce large avalanches. Forecast warm temperatures will increase the likelihood of continued avalanche activity at this interface</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack thanks to a windy early season and strong winds scouring slopes during recent storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 100cm of storm snow fell over the past week and has been blown into stiff wind slabs in many areas. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find soft facetted snow and/or surface hoar buried around January 8th. This layer may coexist with a crust at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar layers buried in November and early December may still be found in the mid to lower snowpack, but are generally considered to be unlikely to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo ( weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas and was likely the reason so many large naturals were reported during and after this last storm cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The main concern is the unusual warming and solar radiation shock that the snowpack will take. This will weaken the snow and most likely increase natural avalanche activity on SE and S aspects, but also in shaded areas because of temperatures rising to plus 10 C in the alpine! As well as surface wet slabs and loose snow avalanches, there is the possibility of it stepping down to a deeper persistent weak layer (PWL) especially in the Northern part of the region. Recent obvious clues include recent natural avalanches, skier remote avalanches, whumphing and cracking and sudden planar tests results all associated with one or the other PWLs. The basal facet layer is found mostly in the alp. and at treeline in shallower snowpack areas. The late Nov. facet/crust layer is also found in these elevation bands and the newly buried surface hoar seems to be starting to heal with the recent mild temperatures. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the southern part of the region, where the early season snowpack was deeper, these persistent weak layers do not seem to be as prevalent. However, temperatures and solar radiation will be even stronger in this part of the region, making wet slabs and loose avalanches even more probable. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern for tomorrow is the unusual warming and solar radiation shock that the snowpack will take. This will weaken the snowpack and cornices which will most likely increase natural avalanche activity on SE and S aspects, but also in shaded areas because of temperatures rising to plus 10 C in the alpine! As well as surface wet slabs and loose snow avalanches, there is the possibility of it stepping down to deeper persistent weak layers (PWL) .</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Indeed, the late November facet/crust combo and the basal facets could be triggered by a heavy load such as a cornice drop or an avalanche stepping down. Recent snowpack testing produced sudden planar results and good propagation potential on the facet/crust layer down 90 cm on a NE aspect. The basal facet weakness is also a concern and is mostly found in the alpine in shallow rocky areas. The facet/crust layer is found in the alpine and at treeline elevation band. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 90cm of storm snow which has been blown into dense windslabs in exposed areas. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces, the most reactive of which appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar. There are reports of &quot;sudden&quot; test results on this layer, now buried anywhere from 55cm to 90cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, a cornice fall or rapid warming). The consequences of triggering any of these weaknesses would be severe..</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Parts of the forecast area have received up to 90cm of storm snow which has been blown into dense windslabs in exposed areas. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces, the most reactive of which appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar. There are reports of &quot;sudden&quot; test results on this layer, now buried anywhere from 55cm to 90cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, a cornice fall or rapid warming). The consequences of triggering any of these weaknesses would be severe..</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is not enough snow at lower elevations for avalanches, however the forecast very warm temperatures may cause what snow there is to become very wet and slushy. Wet and slushy snow may slide off of steep cut banks or rocky cliffs. Near ridge tops where there is enough snow for avalanches, the snow has settled into a very solid snowpack. Very warm temperatures may cause this snow to also become slushy and loose strength resulting in loose wet avalanches. Loose wet snow may slide out of very steep terrain like cut banks and creek sides, or out of rocky cliffs. The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The increased solar radiation and warming trend is keeping avalanche conditions elevated for tomorrow. The intense heat will weaken the surface of the snowpack and most likely increase avalanche activity on all aspects, but especially on S and SE aspects slopes when the sun comes out. There is a possibility that loose wet or slabs could step down to deeper instabilities.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The past wind event has created extensive windslabs in the alpine and at treeline. Those settled rapidly with the mild temperatures but could become more sensitive with the forecasted warm temperatures and solar radiation. The buried surface hoar layer at treeline and the basal facets in thin rocky areas at treeline and in the alpine could become more reactive with the forecasted heat shock. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack thanks to a windy early season and strong winds scouring slopes during recent storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of snow fell last week and has been blown into stiff wind slabs in many areas. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find soft facetted snow and/or surface hoar buried around January 8th. This layer may coexist with a crust at lower elevations. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Surface hoar layers buried in November and early December may still be found in the mid to lower snowpack, but are generally considered to be unlikely to trigger.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas and was likely the culprit with some of the very large avalanches reported in the wake of last week's storm.. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect extensive wind transport and wind slab development in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and I suspect that in some alpine areas storm snow has been transported into slabs that are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that may trigger the persistent weak layers or the basal depth hoar. Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Thin melt freeze crust now exists on solar aspects up to 2400m.  Otherwise, expect pockets of hard slabs overlying a weak facetted base.  This weak facetted base is the reason that many of the avalanaches that have occurred recently involve the entire snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week's snowfall amounts were highly variable throughout the forecast area, with the western parts of the range getting as much as 90cm. Strong to extreme winds pounded the storm accumulations into hard wind slabs in most areas. The recent storm snow sits on a variety of snow surfaces including older wind slab, a soft layer of facetted snow and/or surface hoar buried in early January.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. Both interfaces give variable results in snowpack tests, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack. These crystals may coexist with a crust which formed in October. Several large avalanches in the past few weeks have been attributed to failures at this layer. Wide propagations on relatively gentle terrain have been noted, and an alarming tendency for seemingly disconnected slopes to propagate over a wide area and produce large avalanches. Forecast warm temperatures will increase the likelihood of continued avalanche activity at this interface</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect extensive wind transport and wind slab development in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and I suspect that in some alpine areas storm snow has been transported into slabs that are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that may trigger the persistent weak layers or the basal depth hoar. Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very warm alpine temperatures have created a moist snow surface. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi (raised ridges of snow) in exposed areas. Average treeline snowpack depths are around 170 cm. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was reported to be weak and comprised surface hoar, at least in some locations. Recent snowpack tests indicate that this layer has gained strength and it is difficult to find a shear within the top 100 cm of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two lower layers that professionals area tracking near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very warm alpine temperatures have created a moist snow surface. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi in exposed areas. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was weak. However, settlement due to the warm temperatures appears to have settled the upper snowpack and it has appeared to have gained strength.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are two lower layers of note near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November (down approximately 100-120 cm) is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets and depth hoar likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas, and it has been most widely reported from the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Recent warm temperatures have settled the recent storm snow that ended around 13-14th January, which was previously very reactive on a layer of surface hoar (particularly between 900 and 1400 m) buried around 1 m deep. Weak basal facets near the base of the snowpack were also reactive during this time, particularly in the north of the region. These are found in the alpine and at treeline under over 2 m of snow in some areas. The deep persistent layer at the base of the snowpack is also found in the Southern part of the region, but appears to be less reactive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Extensive wind slab formed on lee and cross-loaded slopes during the SW winds associated with the last storm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Last week, parts of the forecast area received up to 100cm of snow which has been blown into dense windslabs in exposed areas. The new snow overlies a variety of old surfaces, the most reactive of which appears to be the Jan 8th surface hoar. There are reports of &quot;sudden&quot; test results on this layer, now buried anywhere from 55cm to 100cm below the surface. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid warming, cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The North of the region received more storm snow over the past week than the rest of the region. The storm slab in the North is close to a metre thick and appears to be more touchy than in most of the rest of the region. The Rossland range has a shallower snowpack and weak basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above the weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in a period of fairly rapid warming of wind and storm slabs above loose weak layers. Periods of strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches and/or cornice falls which may result in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extensive wind transport and wind slab development has occurred in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and in some alpine areas storm slabs are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that may trigger the persistent weak layer at the base of the snow pack ( depth hoar ). Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The storm slab in the North is close to a metre thick and appears to be more touchy than in most of the rest of the region. The Rossland area appears to have a shallower snowpack and weak basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above the weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in periods of rapid warming of the wind and storm slabs above weak layers. Periods of strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches and/or cornice falls which could result in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers. Surface hoar has been reported forming on protected north slopes along with facetting of surface HST and storm slab in protected locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is not enough snow at lower elevations for avalanches, however the forecast very warm temperatures may cause what snow there is to become very wet and slushy. Wet and slushy snow may slide off of steep cut banks or rocky cliffs. Near ridge tops where there is enough snow for avalanches, the snow has settled into a very solid snowpack. Very warm temperatures may cause this snow to also become slushy and loose strength resulting in loose wet avalanches. Loose wet snow may slide out of very steep terrain like cut banks and creek sides, or out of rocky cliffs. The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very warm alpine temperatures have created a moist snow surface. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi (raised ridges of snow) in exposed areas. Average treeline snowpack depths are around 170 cm. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was reported to be weak and comprised surface hoar, at least in some locations. Recent snowpack tests indicate that this layer has gained strength and it is difficult to find a shear within the top 100 cm of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two lower layers that professionals area tracking near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very warm alpine temperatures have created a moist snow surface. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi in exposed areas. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was weak. However, settlement due to the warm temperatures appears to have settled the upper snowpack and it has appeared to have gained strength.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are two lower layers of note near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November (down approximately 100-120 cm) is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets and depth hoar likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas, and it has been most widely reported from the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the North, the early January surface hoar buried at around 1 m deep at treeline and below treeline is showing to be a main concern since it proved to be very active during the last storm even on low angled terrain. The basal facets also became reactive in the last rapid loading. These are found in the alpine and at treeline under over 2 m of snow in some areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The persistent weak layers mentioned above are also found in the Southern part of the region, but are not showing as much reactivity. The extensive wind slab formation that happened during the SW wind event have most likely started to bond to the underlying surface in the alpine and at treeline. However, expect steep crossloaded or steep lee features to weaken during the day especially if the sun hits those slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previously strong winds have resulted in widespread wind damaged/loaded snow at and above treeline. The buried surface hoar layer at treeline and the basal facets in thin rocky areas at treeline and in the alpine remains a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">No new snow overnight. Moist snow to 2400m on steep solar aspects. Surface growing in protected areas below treeline. Wind slabs in Alpine and Treeline areas persist and are sensitive to human triggering in steep and unsupported terrain. Basal facets/depth hoar remains a concern for full depth releases and wide propagations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extensive wind transport and wind slab development has occurred in all areas of the region. Storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and in some parts of the region storm slabs may be more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that may trigger the persistent weak layers at the base of the snowpack. ( Basal facets and surface hoar). Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack thanks to a windy early season and strong winds scouring slopes during recent storms. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. Its distribution and reactivity seems highly variable. Where it exists, reactivity seems most likely below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine slope.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, although it still produces sudden planar results in isolated tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, and is showing mainly moderate to hard resistant planar results in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change). The consequences of triggering any of these weaknesses would be severe.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60cm and 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many exposed areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th, although no recent avalanche reports have been attributed to this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. These layers are likely gaining strength, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack which may coexist with a crust which formed in October. I would continue to be suspicious of any large or unsupported upper elevation slopes, especially if they haven't already avalanched. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change. Any avalanche failing at this interface would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Little change, over the past 24hrs.  Melt Freeze crust on solar aspects up to 2400m.  Main concern is still the basal facets and triggerreing this weakness from a thin area. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is not enough snow at lower elevations for avalanches, however the forecast very warm temperatures may cause what snow there is to become very wet and slushy. Wet and slushy snow may slide off of steep cut banks or rocky cliffs. Near ridge tops where there is enough snow for avalanches, the snow has settled into a very solid snowpack. Very warm temperatures may cause this snow to also become slushy and lose strength resulting in loose wet avalanches. Loose wet snow may slide out of very steep terrain like cut banks and creek sides, or out of rocky cliffs. The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extensive wind transport and wind slab development has occurred in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and in some alpine areas storm slabs are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Forecast very warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that could trigger the persistent weak layer at the base of the snow pack ( depth hoar ) or the surface hoar layer from late in November. Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many areas. Heavy wind scouring is reported to have occurred on many exposed windward slopes. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. Its distribution and reactivity seems highly variable. Where it exists, reactivity seems most likely below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine or treeline elevation slope.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, although it still produces sudden planar results in isolated tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind continues to redistribute surface snow throughout the region. The snowpack varies widely, but appears to be deeper in the north and east. Basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above these weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in periods of rapid warming of the wind and storm slabs above weak layers. Strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches or cornice falls in the alpine resulting in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers. Surface hoar has been reported forming on protected north and east slopes along with facetting of the surface and storm slab in protected locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind transport and wind slab development continues in the region. Some south facing slopes have seen enough daytime warming that they now have sun crust. Surface hoar growth and near surface facetting is occurring on sheltered N. aspects. In some parts of the region storm slabs may be more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts, facets and surface hoar continue to be a concern and may have been failure planes for recently reported avalanches. Forecast warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that might trigger persistent weak layers at the base of the snowpack. ( Basal facets and surface hoar). Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create very touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Very warm alpine temperatures have created a moist snow surface. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi in exposed areas. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was weak. However, settlement due to the warm temperatures appears to have settled the upper snowpack and it has appeared to have gained strength.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are two lower layers of note near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November (down approximately 100-120 cm) is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets and depth hoar likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas, and it has been most widely reported from the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very warm alpine temperatures have created a moist snow surface. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi (raised ridges of snow) in exposed areas. Average treeline snowpack depths are around 170 cm. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was reported to be weak and comprised surface hoar, at least in some locations. Recent snowpack tests indicate that this layer has gained strength and it is difficult to find a shear within the top 100 cm of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two lower layers that professionals area tracking near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previously strong winds have left widespread wind loading/wind damaged snow in their wake. Most of these wind slabs are probably growing old and tired but may still pose a problem in bigger terrain. Warming temps along with a bit of rain at lower elevations has formed a variety of crusts at and below treeline. The early January surface hoar is most active in the north of the region between 900m and 1400m. It was a player during the last cycle even in low angled terrain. Look for it 70 -100 cm below the surface. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down around two meters below the snow surface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previously strong winds have left widespread wind loading/wind damaged snow in their wake. Most of these wind slabs are probably growing old and tired but may still pose a problem in bigger terrain. Warming temps along with a bit of rain at lower elevations has formed a variety of crusts at and below treeline. The early January surface hoar is most active in the region at treeline. It was a player during the last cycle even in low angled terrain. Look for it in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down near the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. With recent warming, steep, sun exposed slopes have seen a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, and is showing mainly moderate to hard resistant planar results in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change). The consequences of triggering any of these weaknesses would be severe.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60cm and 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many exposed areas. Thanks to recent warming, steep, sun exposed slopes have seen a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th, although no recent avalanche reports have been attributed to this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. These layers are likely gaining strength, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack which may coexist with a crust which formed in October. I would continue to be suspicious of any large or unsupported upper elevation slopes, especially if they haven't already avalanched. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change. Any avalanche failing at this interface would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Little change over the past 24 hours - a little more wind but generally light.  melt-freeze crust on on solar aspects up to 2400m.  Main concerns remain unchanged - weak basal facets with 4F-!F hardness above which is susceptible to human triggering in areas where the snow cover is thin.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong winds have highly variable conditions throughout the forecast region.  The average height of snow at treeline is 170cm in the White Pass, 110cm in Powder Valley and 70cm in the Wheaton valley.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Warm temperatures and  moist snowfall has promoted the upper snowpack to rapidly settle. The same warm weather has formed rain/melt-freeze crusts within the upper snowpack buried approximately 10 and 40cm. This appears to be specific to lower elevations disappearing between 1300-1400m, observed in the Fraser Lake areas.&nbsp; The crusts are likely more developed on south and west facing slopes but are found on all aspects.  In areas where a fresh wind slab overlies these crusts, conditions may be touchy.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack has gained strength at lower elevations in the White Pass region over the past week and in most locations is supportive. The alpine has been highly wind affected and in shallow areas the mid-pack is thinner and less supportive. Moving north, recent observations from the Powder and Wheaton Valleys indicate that the weak layer of depth hoar at the base of the snowpack is more developed and more prone to 'rider triggering'.&nbsp; </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, although it still produces sudden planar results in isolated tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind transport and wind slab development continues in the region. Some south facing slopes have seen enough daytime warming that they now have sun crust. Surface hoar growth and near surface facetting is occurring on sheltered N and NE aspects. In some parts of the region storm slabs may be more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts, facets and surface hoar continue to be a concern and may have been failure planes for recently reported avalanches. Forecast warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that might trigger persistent weak layers at the base of the snowpack. ( Basal facets and surface hoar). Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extensive wind transport and wind slab development has occurred in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and in some alpine areas storm slabs are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and may have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Surface facetting and surface hoar growth throught the forecast region on northerly and protected aspects. Strong solar radiation and above-freezing temperatures producing sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind continues to redistribute surface snow throughout the region. The snowpack varies widely, but appears to be deeper in the north and east. Basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above these weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in periods of rapid warming in the wind and storm slabs above weak layers. Strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches or cornice falls in the alpine resulting in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers. Surface hoar has been reported forming on protected north and east slopes along with facetting of the surface and storm slab in protected locations. Solar aspects have begun forming sun crust in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is not enough snow at lower elevations for avalanches, however the forecast very warm temperatures may cause what snow there is to become very wet and slushy. Wet and slushy snow may slide off of steep cut banks or rocky cliffs. Near ridge tops where there is enough snow for avalanches, the snow has settled into a very solid snowpack. Very warm temperatures may cause this snow to also become slushy and lose strength resulting in loose wet avalanches. Loose wet snow may slide out of very steep terrain like cut banks and creek sides, or out of rocky cliffs. The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previously strong winds have left widespread wind loading/wind damaged snow in their wake. Most of these wind slabs are probably growing old and tired but may still pose a problem in bigger terrain. Warming temps along with a bit of rain at lower elevations has formed a variety of crusts at and below treeline. The early January surface hoar is most active in the region at treeline. It was a player during the last cycle even in low angled terrain. Look for it in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down near the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. With recent warming, steep, sun exposed slopes have seen a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, and is showing mainly moderate to hard resistant planar results in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change). The consequences of triggering either of these weaknesses would be severe.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60cm and 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many exposed areas. Thanks to recent warming, steep, sun exposed slopes have seen a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th, although no recent avalanche reports have been attributed to this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. These layers are likely gaining strength, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack which may coexist with a crust which formed in October. I would continue to be suspicious of any large or unsupported upper elevation slopes, especially if they haven't already avalanched. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change. Any avalanche failing at this interface would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In some areas we're still dealing with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many areas. Heavy wind scouring is reported to have occurred on many exposed windward slopes. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. Its distribution and reactivity seems highly variable. Where it exists, reactivity seems most likely below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine or treeline elevation slope.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Unseasonably warm daytime temperatures have left the snow surface in rough shape. A crust can be found on steep solar aspects to ridge top and on all aspects below 1600m. The crust may moisten when the air is still and the skies are clear.&nbsp; </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi in exposed areas. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was weak. However, settlement due to the warm temperatures appears to have settled the upper snowpack and it has appeared to have gained strength.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are two lower layers of note near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November (down approximately 100-120 cm) is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets and depth hoar likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas, and it has been most widely reported from the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previously strong winds have left widespread wind loading/wind damaged snow in their wake. Most of these wind slabs are probably growing old and tired but may still pose a problem in bigger terrain. Warming temps along with a bit of rain at lower elevations has formed a variety of crusts at and below treeline. The early January surface hoar is most active in the north of the region between 900m and 1400m. It was a player during the last cycle even in low angled terrain. Look for it 70 -100 cm below the surface. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down around two meters below the snow surface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Unseasonably warm daytime temperatures have left the snow surface in rough shape. A crust can be found on steep solar aspects to ridge top and on all aspects below 1600m. The crust may moisten when the air is still and the skies are clear. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi (raised ridges of snow) in exposed areas. Average treeline snowpack depths are around 170 cm. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was reported to be weak and comprised surface hoar, at least in some locations. Recent snowpack tests indicate that this layer has gained strength and it is difficult to find a shear within the top 100 cm of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two lower layers that professionals area tracking near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets likely still exist at the base of the snowpack, especially in areas where the snowpack was particularly shallow early on in the season. The most likely places you would find this problem is in the alpine in shallow rocky areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not a lot of change in the last 24hrs. The sun crust is becoming more pronounced on steep solar aspects with clear skies. The weather pattern has had no significant effect on the snowpack. At all elevations windslabs overly the facetted mid to basal snow pack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind continues to redistribute surface snow throughout the region, and basal facets continue to be a concern where wind slabs and storm slabs have added load above these weak layers. The forecast very warm alpine temperatures may result in periods of rapid warming in the wind and storm slabs above weak layers. Strong solar radiation may cause moist or wet loose snow avalanches or cornice falls in the alpine resulting in large additional loads above deeply buried weak layers. Surface hoar continues to form on protected north and east slopes along with facetting of the surface and storm slab in protected locations. Solar aspects have&nbsp; sun crust in some locations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Wind transport and wind slab development continues in the region. Some south facing slopes have seen enough daytime warming that they now have sun crust. Surface hoar growth and near surface facetting is occurring on sheltered N and NE aspects. In some parts of the region storm slabs may be more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts, facets and surface hoar continue to be a concern and may have been failure planes for recently reported avalanches. Forecast warm temperatures may result in loose wet avalanches or cornice falls that might trigger persistent weak layers at the base of the snowpack. ( Basal facets and surface hoar). Strong solar radiation combined with above freezing temperatures in the alpine could create touchy triggering on Southerly aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Extensive wind transport and wind slab development has occurred in all areas of the region. Recent storm snow varies from 40-70 cm across the region and in some alpine areas storm slabs are more than a metre thick. Persistent weak layers of buried crusts/facets/surface hoar continue to be a concern, and are suspected to have been the failure plane for recent large natural avalanches. Surface facetting and surface hoar growth throughout the forecast region on northerly and protected aspects. Strong solar radiation and above-freezing temperatures producing sun crust on solar aspects.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 60cm and 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many exposed areas. Thanks to recent warming, steep, sun exposed slopes have seen a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th, although no recent avalanche reports have been attributed to this layer. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the mid to lower pack you may find a surface hoar layer buried in mid December. Further down you may also find the December facet/crust combo. These layers are likely gaining strength, but professional operators are treating them with caution.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack which may coexist with a crust which formed in October. I would continue to be suspicious of any large or unsupported upper elevation slopes, especially if they haven't already avalanched. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change. Any avalanche failing at this interface would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 90cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. With recent warming, steep, sun exposed slopes have seen a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, and is showing mainly moderate to hard resistant planar results in snowpack tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change). The consequences of triggering either of these weaknesses would be severe.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Unseasonably warm daytime temperatures have left the snow surface in rough shape. A crust can be found on steep solar aspects to ridge top and on all aspects below 1600m. The crust has been breaking down when subjected to direct sun and still air. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi (raised ridges of snow) in exposed areas. Average treeline snowpack depths are around 170 cm. Initially, the bond below the most recent storm snow was reported to be weak and comprised surface hoar, at least in some locations. Recent snowpack tests indicate that this layer has gained strength and it is difficult to find a shear within the top 100 cm of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are two lower layers that professionals area tracking near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. Facets still exist at the base of the snowpack, and are especially robust in alpine features where there was a shallow early season snowpack. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn hard wind slab in many areas. Heavy wind scouring is reported to have occurred on many exposed windward slopes. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab, you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th, especially on shady slopes below treeline. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine or treeline elevation slope. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Roughly 100cm of well settled storm snow exists as a stubborn wind slab in many exposed areas. Steep, sun exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle while surface hoar has been growing in some shaded terrain. Below the recently formed storm slab you may find surface hoar buried around January 8th. This interface seems to have become less of a concern for most operations, although it still produces sudden planar results in isolated tests.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There are 2 other layers of note which professionals are keeping a close eye on: The late-November persistent weak layer consists of a sun crust on steep south facing slopes and surface hoar in sheltered areas and may sit well over 200cm below the surface. At the base of the snowpack you may also find the October persistent weak layer which consists of facets sitting on a crust. This layer is predominantly found on northerly aspects at tree line and in the alpine. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The depth of both these layers makes skier triggering an avalanche on them unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Unseasonably warm daytime temperatures have left the snow surface in rough shape. A crust can be found on steep solar aspects to ridge top and on all aspects below 1600m. The crust can break down during the heat of the day when subjected to still air and direct sun. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted sastrugi in exposed areas. The upper 30 cm of the snowpack is settling nicely, but two layers of Surface Hoar down around 60 cm continue to give sudden planar shears in test profiles. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are two lower layers of note near the base of the snowpack. A facet/crust combo from late November (down approximately 100-120 cm) is still giving &quot;sudden&quot; results in compression tests and exists at treeline and alpine elevations. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets and depth hoar still exist at the base of the snowpack, and are especially robust in alpine features where there was a shallow early season snowpack. This problem has been most widely reported from the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The region picked up 10 - 20 cm of new snow on Monday which now hides most of the destruction caused by previously strong winds that left widespread wind loading/wind damaged snow in their wake. Previously warm temps along with a bit of rain at lower elevations has formed a variety of crusts at and below treeline. The early January surface hoar is most active in the north of the region between 900m and 1400m. It was a player during the last cycle even in low angled terrain. Look for it 70 -100 cm below the surface. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down around two meters below the snow surface.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Previously strong winds have left widespread wind loading/wind damaged snow in their wake. Warming temps along with a bit of rain at lower elevations has formed a variety of crusts at and below treeline. The early January surface hoar is most prevalent at treeline. It was a player during the last cycle even in low angled terrain. Look for it in the upper 50 cm of the snowpack. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down near the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is not enough snow at lower elevations for avalanches, however the forecast very warm temperatures may cause what snow there is to become very wet and slushy. Near ridge tops where there is enough snow for avalanches, the snow has settled into a very solid snowpack. Very warm temperatures may cause this snow to also become slushy and lose strength resulting in loose wet avalanches. Loose wet snow may slide out of very steep terrain like cut banks and creek sides, or out of rocky cliffs. The average depth of snow at 1000 metres is 60-70 cm and at 1200 metres it is 100-120 cm. Near the peaks it is closer to 150 cm. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle, that could see new snow shed readily, especially where it overlies recently buried surface hoar that lies approximately 10 cm under the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine or treeline elevation slope. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle, that could see new snow shed readily, especially where it overlies recently buried surface hoar that lies approximately 10 cm under the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Unseasonably warm daytime temperatures and sun-exposure have subjected the snow surface to </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycles</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> on lower elevation and sun-exposed slopes. On shady aspects expect to find faceted powder; however, in exposed areas winds have scoured windward slopes, left deep drifts on lee aspects, and and sculpted </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. </span><span class="s_AA239A9B">A facet/crust combo from late November down approximately 100-120 cm at treeline and alpine elevations continues to give sudden results in snowpack tests. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets and depth hoar at the base of the snowpack remain a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include: old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas or a melt-freeze crust on steep, previously sun-exposed slopes. In exposed terrain, the new snow may have been distributed into small windslabs. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals. The facet layer, which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region), was responsible for some serious close calls last week. Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, this persistent problem has potential to re-awaken with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include hard, stubborn windslabs in exposed upper elevation terrain, a melt freeze crust on steep, sun-exposed slopes, and well developed surface hoar at treeline and below. Ongoing warm daytime temperatures have promoted settlement within the snowpack, while cool nights have allowed for significant surface faceting.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Closer to the ground, below a generally strong and well settled mid pack, there are 2 layers of note: the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo which formed in October. Both of these layers represent a low probability-high consequence scenario. In short, the likelihood of a release at these interfaces is low, but avalanches would probably be very destructive in nature. Possible triggers include cornice fall, significant warming, or thin spot triggering on an unsupported slope in the alpine or at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much of a change out there these days.  Melt freeze crusts on solar aspects up to 2400m.  Otherwise, the snowpack is generally wind affected in most open terrain and overlying a weak facetted base.  Moderate sheers persist at the interface of the weak base to the upper snowpack.  Generally ski quality is poor.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level and over a metre on the peaks. Warm temperatures and sun exposure during the day is melting the snow surface to the point where it is becoming wet and cohesionless.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Unseasonably warm daytime temperatures and sun-exposure have subjected the snow surface to </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycles</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> on all but high elevation shady aspects for several days. Cornices have also been weakening. Previous winds have scoured windward slopes and sculpted </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> in exposed areas. Average treeline snowpack depths are around 170 cm with a well settled and strong upper and mid-pack; however, facets and depth hoar with an associated crust still lurk near the base. Recent snowpack tests on a SSW facing treeline slope gave hard but sudden results on a crust laminated with facets down 118cm. Below that, facets and depth hoar were found down to the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Over 20 cm of recent storm snow has been redistributed onto leeward slopes in exposed areas. Under this storm snow. a crust has been reported up to treeline elevations. Well preserved surface hoar may be found buried in the upper snowpack on sheltered treeline slopes and below, and has been most active in the northern parts of the region between 900m and 1400m elevation. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Approximately 5 to 25cm (elevation and drainage dependant) of recent storm snow sits on various old snow surfaces including crusts. Previously strong winds have resulted in highly variable snowpack depths in exposed areas with deep drifts, scoured areas, and </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B">. The surface snow is likely undergoing </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">melt-freeze cycles</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> particularly on sun-exposed slopes and at lower elevations. The surface hoar persistent weakness buried early January is most prevalent down approximately 50cm on sheltered slopes at treeline. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down near the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include: hard and stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas or a melt-freeze crust on steep, previously sun-exposed slopes. The new snow may exist as a fresh wind slab in exposed lee terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the lower snowpack the main concern appears to be basal facets which seem most prevalent in alpine terrain or on open slopes below treeline. This layer has not been reactive as of late, but is definitely one to watch with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycle</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> at lower elevations. On shady aspects expect to find faceted powder; however, in exposed areas winds have scoured windward slopes, left deep drifts on lee aspects, and and sculpted </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. The record low snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, a</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> facet/crust combo from late November down approximately 100-120 cm at treeline and alpine elevations continues to give sudden results in snowpack tests. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets and depth hoar at the base of the snowpack remain a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycle </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> at lower elevations. The record low snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, facets with an associated laminated crust still lurk near the base. Recent snowpack tests on a SSW facing treeline slope gave hard but sudden results on a crust laminated with facets down 118cm. Below that, facets and depth hoar were found down to the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">melt-freeze cycle</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> at lower elevations. On shady aspects, over 20cm of recent storm snow (more on wind-loaded slopes) is settling and bonding well to the previous snow surface, which includes a crust up to treeline elevations. Well preserved surface hoar may be found buried in the upper snowpack on sheltered treeline slopes and below, and has been most active in the northern parts of the region between 900m and 1400m elevation. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack which may coexist with a crust which formed in October. I would continue to be suspicious of any large or unsupported upper elevation slopes, especially if they haven't already avalanched. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change. Any avalanche failing at this interface would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is now 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm in select places in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle, that could see new snow shed readily, especially where it overlies recently buried surface hoar that lies approximately 10 cm under the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine or treeline elevation slope. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle, that could see new snow shed readily, especially where it overlies recently buried surface hoar that lies approximately 10 cm under the surface.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong winds and fluctuating temperatures have created highly variable conditions throughout the forecast region. At lower elevations (maybe around 1600 m and below) expect to find a new surface rain crust and potentially a series of buried rain crusts in the upper snowpack. The crusts are likely more developed on south and west facing slopes but are found on all aspects. In areas where a fresh wind slab overlies these crusts, conditions may be touchy. I would expect this in North and Northeast facing terrain near ridgetop and cross-loaded gullies or terrain features. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The mid-pack has gained strength at lower elevations in the White Pass region and in most locations is supportive. The alpine has been highly wind affected and in shallow areas the mid-pack is thinner and less supportive. Moving north, previous observations from the Powder and Wheaton Valleys indicate that the weak layer of depth hoar at the base of the snowpack is more developed and more prone to 'rider triggering', particularly on slopes with variable snow cover. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level and over a metre on the peaks. Warm temperatures and sun exposure during the day is melting the snow surface to the point where it is becoming wet and cohesionless.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include hard, stubborn windslabs in exposed upper elevation terrain, a melt freeze crust on steep, sun-exposed slopes, and well developed surface hoar at treeline and below. Ongoing warm daytime temperatures have promoted settlement within the snowpack, while cool nights have allowed for significant surface faceting.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Closer to the ground, below a generally strong and well settled mid pack, there are 2 layers of note: the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo which formed in October. Both of these layers represent a low probability-high consequence scenario. That said, warming forecast for the next few days may be what it takes to bring these layers back to life. Other possible triggers include cornice fall or thin spot triggering on an unsupported slope in the alpine or at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The surface snow is likely undergoing </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">melt-freeze cycles</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> particularly on all but high elevation shady aspects. Approximately 5 to 25cm (elevation and drainage dependant) of recent storm snow sits on various old snow surfaces including crusts. Previously strong winds have resulted in highly variable snowpack depths in exposed areas with deep drifts, scoured areas, and </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B">.  The surface hoar persistent weakness buried early January is most prevalent down approximately 50cm on sheltered slopes at treeline. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down near the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include: hard and stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas or a melt-freeze crust on steep, previously sun-exposed slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the lower snowpack the main concern appears to be basal facets which seem most prevalent in alpine terrain or on open slopes below treeline. Additionally, surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests with sudden planar results. These layers have not been reactive as of late, but are definitely worth keeping an eye on warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include: old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas or a melt-freeze crust on steep, previously sun-exposed slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals. The facet layer, which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region), was responsible for some serious close calls last week. Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, this persistent problem has potential to re-awaken with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Not much changing out there these days...  The warm temps are helping to settle the snowpack out but the main concern is still for the weak basal facets.  They are becomming harder to trigger but if they do go, it will result in a large avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may exist under a skiff of new snow. Steep, sun exposed features are most likely seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The biggest concern throughout the region is a layer of weak sugary depth hoar at the base of the snowpack which may coexist with a crust which formed in October. I would continue to be suspicious of any large or unsupported upper elevation slopes, especially if they haven't already avalanched. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, a cornice fall or rapid temperature change. Any avalanche failing at this interface would be highly destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level of the local ski hills and over a metre on the peaks. Warm temperatures and sun exposure during the day is melting the snow surface to the point where it is becoming wet and cohesionless.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include hard and stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas. Steep sun-exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the lower snowpack the main concern appears to be basal facets which seem most prevalent in alpine terrain or on open slopes below treeline. Additionally, surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests with sudden planar results. These layers have not been reactive as of late, but are definitely worth keeping an eye on warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain or well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas. Sun-exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals. The facet layer, which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region), was responsible for some serious close calls last week. Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, this persistent problem has potential to re-awaken with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include hard, stubborn windslabs in exposed upper elevation terrain and well developed surface hoar at treeline and below. Sun-exposed slopes are seeing a daily melt-freeze cycle. Ongoing warm daytime temperatures have promoted settlement within the snowpack, while cool nights have allowed for significant surface faceting.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Closer to the ground, below a generally strong and well settled mid pack, there are 2 layers of note: the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo which formed in October. Both of these layers represent a low probability-high consequence scenario. That said, warming forecast for the next few days may be what it takes to bring these layers back to life. Other possible triggers include cornice fall or thin spot triggering on an unsupported slope in the alpine or at treeline.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycle</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> at lower elevations. On shady aspects expect to find faceted powder; however, in exposed areas winds have scoured windward slopes, left deep drifts on lee aspects, and and sculpted </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. The record low snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, a</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> facet/crust combo from late November down approximately 100-120 cm at treeline and alpine elevations continues to give sudden results in snowpack tests. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets and depth hoar at the base of the snowpack remain a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">melt-freeze cycle</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> at lower elevations. On shady aspects, over 20cm of recent storm snow (more on wind-loaded slopes) is settling and bonding well to the previous snow surface, which includes a crust up to treeline elevations. Well preserved surface hoar may be found buried in the upper snowpack on sheltered treeline slopes and below, and has been most active in the northern parts of the region between 900m and 1400m elevation. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is around 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm on lee slopes in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Isolated thin windslabs may exist in the lee of ridge crests. Steep, sun exposed features are becoming moist during the day and refreezing at night to give hard surfaces in the early morning, softening during the day.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. Likely triggers at this interface would include cornice fall, rapid temperature changes or thin spot triggering on an unsupported alpine or treeline elevation slope. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. Isolated thin wind slabs may exist in some alpine locations. Steep, sun exposed features are becoming moist during the day and refreezing at night to give hard surfaces in the early morning, softening during the day.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycle </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">on all but high elevation shady aspects. The record low snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, facets with an associated laminated crust still lurk near the base. Recent snowpack tests on a SSW facing treeline slope gave hard but sudden results on a crust laminated with facets down 118cm. Below that, facets and depth hoar were found down to the ground. Although warm temperatures tend to promote settlement and strengthening over time, the initial strain could easily reawaken these deep persistent slabs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The surface snow is likely undergoing </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">melt-freeze cycles</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> particularly on all but high elevation shady aspects. Approximately 5 to 25cm (elevation and drainage dependant) of recent storm snow sits on various old snow surfaces including crusts. Previously strong winds have resulted in highly variable snowpack depths in exposed areas with deep drifts, scoured areas, and </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B">. The surface hoar persistent weakness buried early January is most prevalent down approximately 50cm on sheltered slopes at treeline. Professionals continue to keep an eye on the basal facets which can be found down near the ground.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level of the local ski hills and over a metre on the peaks. Warm temperatures and sun exposure during the day is melting the snow surface to the point where it is becoming wet and cohesionless.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycle</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> at lower elevations. On shady aspects expect to find faceted powder; however, in exposed areas winds have scoured windward slopes, left deep drifts on lee aspects, and and sculpted </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/sastrugi.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">sastrugi</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">. The record low snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, a</span><span class="s_AA239A9B"> facet/crust combo from late November down approximately 100-120 cm at treeline and alpine elevations continues to give sudden results in snowpack tests. </span><span class="s_3FE45715">Facets and depth hoar at the base of the snowpack remain a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface growth up to 15mm in sheltered areas below treeline. Moist snow on solar aspects penetrating 10cm into snowpack. October facets/depth hoar layer still prominent at base of snowpack. Wind slabs exist at all elevations and on all aspects except W and SW in Alpine.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of recent snowfall overlie old wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Sun-exposed alpine slopes now have a melt-freeze crust . </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the lower snowpack the main concern appears to be basal facets which seem most concerning in alpine terrain. Additionally, surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests. These layers have not been reactive as of late, but are definitely worth keeping an eye on. Possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, cornice fall or a rapid temperature change.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain or well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas. Sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals. The facet layer, which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region), was responsible for some serious close calls last week. Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, this persistent problem has potential to re-awaken with warming forecast for the next few days. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is around 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm on lee slopes in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. . The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase even more. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">melt-freeze cycle</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> on all but high elevation shady aspects, while the entire snowpack may even be trending </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/isothermal.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">isothermal</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> at lower elevations. On shady aspects, over 20cm of recent storm snow (more on wind-loaded slopes) is settling and bonding well to the previous snow surface, which includes a crust up to treeline elevations. Well preserved surface hoar may be found buried in the upper snowpack on sheltered treeline slopes and below, and has been most active in the northern parts of the region between 900m and 1400m elevation. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A report from the Bulkley Valley suggests that it is like a spring snowpack in the alpine. Solar aspects are reported to be wet and becoming isothermal in the top 15-30 cm. There appears to be little or no crust recovery overnight due to the warm air trapped at higher elevations. A new layer of surface hoar is growing in shaded  areas on North aspects in the alpine. Basal depth hoar continues to be a concern; warm temperatures should encourage settlement in the long term, but may increase the likelihood of triggering this deeply buried weak layer in the short term.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The surface snow is likely undergoing a </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://fsavalanche.com/Encyclopedia/melt_freeze_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">melt-freeze cycle </span></a><span class="s_3FE45715">on all but high elevation shady aspects. The record low snowpack is generally well settled and strong; however, facets with an associated laminated crust still lurk near the base. Recent snowpack tests on a SSW facing treeline slope gave hard but sudden results on a crust laminated with facets down 118cm. Below that, facets and depth hoar were found down to the ground. Although warm temperatures tend to promote settlement and strengthening over time, the initial strain could easily reawaken these deep persistent slabs.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed upper elevation terrain and well developed surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Surface hoar continues to grow at treeline and below while sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. Ongoing moderate daytime temperatures have promoted settlement within the snowpack, while cool nights have allowed for significant surface faceting.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Closer to the ground, below a generally strong and well settled mid pack, there are 2 layers of note: the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo which formed in October. These layers have become unlikely to trigger (maybe a cornice fall, a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain, or a rapid temperature change). That said, avalanches at these interfaces would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level of the local ski hills and over a metre on the peaks. Warm temperatures and sun exposure during the day is melting the snow surface to the point where it is becoming wet and cohesionless.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase even more. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is around 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm on lee slopes in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. . The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">It has been very warm in the alpine for the past few days. There has not been much crust recovery above treeline, and the surface snow has been described as slushy. The snowpack appears to be a well settled &quot;spring&quot; like snowpack, however the snowpack is very shallow and weak facetted base layers continue to be found.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Surface hoar up to 15mm in sheltered areas below 2000m. Sun crust on solar aspects at all elevations. Variable wind slab at all elevations and all aspects except SW and W. Basal facets/depth hoar persist.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of recent snowfall overlie old wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Sun-exposed alpine slopes now have a melt-freeze crust . </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the lower snowpack the main concern appears to be basal facets which seem most concerning in alpine terrain. Additionally, surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests. These layers have recently become unlikely to trigger, although possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, cornice fall or a rapid temperature change.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed upper elevation terrain and well developed surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Surface hoar continues to grow at treeline and below while sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. Ongoing moderate daytime temperatures have promoted settlement within the snowpack, while cool nights have allowed for significant surface faceting.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Closer to the ground, below a generally strong and well settled mid pack, there are 2 layers of note: the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo which formed in October. These layers have become unlikely to trigger (maybe a cornice fall, a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain, or a rapid temperature change). That said, avalanches at these interfaces would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of new snow overlie a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain or well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas. Sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals which exist in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A report from the Bulkley Valley suggests that it is like a spring snowpack in the alpine. Solar aspects are reported to be wet and becoming isothermal in the top 15-30 cm. There appears to be little or no crust recovery overnight due to the warm air trapped at higher elevations. A new layer of surface hoar is growing in shaded areas on North aspects in the alpine. Basal depth hoar continues to be a concern; warm temperatures should encourage settlement in the long term, but may increase the likelihood of triggering this deeply buried weak layer in the short term.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Very warm alpine temperatures have been reported over the past few days that have not allowed for much crust recovery. Melt-freeze crusts have developed at lower elevations where overnight minimum temperatures dropped below freezing. Some very protected North aspects have been reported to still be dry with near surface facetting occurring. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Reports tell us that there has not been much crust recovery at higher elevations due to the temperature inversion. The top 20-30 cm of snow in the alpine has been reported as isothermal in some areas. Melt-freeze crusts have been developing at lower elevations due to temperature fluctuations with overnight low temperatures dropping below freezing. New surface hoar has been reported on slopes that are sheltered from the sun at and below treeline. Some very sheltered alpine north aspects are facetting near the surface. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sun crust is found on South and West aspects at all elevations. Surface faceting in all other areas due to cold temps. Previous wind effect and wind slab is evident at all elevations and all aspects, except South and SW in the Alpine. Profile today at 2200m shows a strong mid-pack, but basal weaknesses remain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A report from the Bulkley Valley shows widespread surface hoar development over the past few clear days and nights. I suspect that the solar radiation at upper elevations destroyed some of those well formed crystals. Dropping freezing levels as the temperature inversion breaks down should create a solid re-frozen surface crust. Forecast new snow may not bond well to the crust or the new surface hoar.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Light amounts of recent snowfall overlie old wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar on sheltered slopes. Sun-exposed alpine slopes now have a melt-freeze crust . </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the lower snowpack the main concern appears to be basal facets which seem most concerning in alpine terrain. Additionally, surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests. These layers have recently become unlikely to trigger, although possible triggers include a heavy load over a thin spot, cornice fall or a rapid temperature change.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In the Wheaton Valley, the snowpack is highly variable, with an average depth of 60cm. Further south, in the Powder Valley/Paddy Peak area, the snow distribution is equally variable, however the average depth of snow is about 100cm. In the White Pass, average depths at tree line are 130cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">A rain/melt-freeze crust on the surface is widespread across the forecast region. In wind exposed areas, the crust is thick (5-10cm), and is thinner (&lt;1cm) in more sheltered areas. On average, the crust is thicker and more developed in the south (White Pass) and thinner to the north. It can be found on all aspects, to ridge top and in most places it is supportive, making for fast, spring like travel conditions. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent warm temperatures have caused significant settlement within the upper and middle portion of the snowpack. A mid-January crust is buried by 20-40cm, however has not produced results in recent snowpack tests. In shallow, rocky snowpack areas, the mid-pack is less supportive and a rider is more likely to trigger the weaker snow layers below. Extensive avalanche activity and recent snowpack tests suggest this layer near the ground could wake up again under a sufficient load.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Forecast cloud and cooler temperatures should allow for good crust development at all elevations. New snow may not bond to the old surface where surface hoar has grown at and below treeline. In the alpine the new snow may not bond to the crust depending on the timing of the cooling. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Forecast cooler temperatures, cloud, and dropping freezing levels should allow for the surface to re-freeze overnight. New surface hoar has been reported on slopes that are sheltered from the sun at and below treeline. Some very sheltered alpine north aspects are facetting near the surface. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Expect good crust recovery overnight as the temperature inversion breaks down and freezing levels begin to drop. New snow may bury surface hoar that has grown at and below treeline over the past few days. In the alpine new snow may not bond to the old surface depending on the timing of the cooling. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, however the bridging effect of the re-frozen upper snowpack may reduce the likelihood of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snowpack depths vary, but in general there is around 200 to 250cm of snow at tree line and as much as 300 cm on lee slopes in the alpine. In the south and to the east of the region, there are still areas with a relatively thin snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. . The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase even more. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed upper elevation terrain and well developed surface hoar in sheltered terrain. Surface hoar continues to grow at treeline and below while sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Ongoing moderate daytime temperatures have promoted settlement within the snowpack, while cool nights have allowed for significant surface faceting.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Closer to the ground, below a generally strong mid pack, there are 2 layers of note: the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo from October. These layers have become unlikely to trigger (although still possible with the right input such as a cornice fall, a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain, or a rapid temperature change). That said, avalanches at these interfaces would be large and destructive.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 5 and 20cm of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces which include old, stubborn wind slabs in exposed terrain or well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas. Sun-exposed slopes are now sporting a melt-freeze crust. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region appears to be weak buried facet crystals which exist in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although activity at this interface has tapered-off, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences. Other possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level of the local ski hills and over a meter on the peaks. Warm temperatures and sun exposure during the day is melting the snow surface to the point where it is becoming wet and cohesionless. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sun crust on South and West aspects at all elevations. Surface hoar continues to grow in sheltered areas below treeline. Wind slabs are widespread at treeline and above. Basal weak layers persist, with snowpack stability tests (Compression Tests) indicating failures in the basal facets.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread large surface hoar was reported throughout the region. This layer is now probably buried by a few centimetres of snow. In some places the surface hoar may have been sitting on a crust, it may have only been a sun crust, and it may even have included sugary faceted snow. At any rate, it looks like this layer will be one to keep a close eye on in the coming weeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas, and was the culprit with some of the very large recent avalanches. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust. This layer may be covered by a few centimetres of new snow and will likely be one to watch carefully in the coming weeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase even more. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn hard wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in thinner snowpack areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Large surface hoar is reported to have formed in sheltered areas at all elevations with the exception of open south-facing slopes where the sun has caused melting and formed a sun crust. This layer is likely buried by a few centimetres of snow now and is certainly one to watch carefully in the coming weeks. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level of the local ski hills and over a meter on the peaks. Previously warm conditions followed by rain today has made the snowpack wet and cohesionless. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A skiff of new snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces: wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar on sheltered slopes. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The ongoing concern in the snowpack continues to be the basal facets found at higher elevations. Surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests. While the recent prolonged warm temperatures strengthened the overlying snowpack making these layers harder trigger large avalanche are still possible given the right trigger such as a heavy load over a thin spot, or cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 5 and 20cm of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces including: old wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas, or a melt-freeze crust on sun-exposed slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although avalanche activity on this interface has tapered-off lately there is still the potential for large avalanche that could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces including stubborn wind slabs in exposed upper elevation terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered terrain and a crust on south aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures have formed a strong and supportive midpack. Closer to the ground, the two weak layers we've been worried about thus far this season (the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo from October) are still there. While these layers have become increasing unlikely to trigger as the overlying slab has gained strength, large and destructive avalanches are still possible with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A solid melt-freeze crust has developed at all elevations on most aspects. New snow may bury surface hoar that has grown at and below treeline over the past few days. In the alpine new snow may not bond to the old surface depending on the timing of the cooling. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, however the bridging effect of the re-frozen upper snowpack may reduce the likelihood of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below freezing temperatures have created a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and on most aspects. Sheltered North aspects in the alpine may have stayed dry and now have facetted surface snow. New snow may not bond to the old surface where surface hoar has grown at and below treeline. In the alpine the new snow may not bond to the crust depending on the timing of the cooling. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent dry, warm weather has generally consolidated the upper snowpack. As temperatures now begin to cool, stability in the upper snowpack should increase further. Keep in mind that 'Low Hazard' does not mean 'No Hazard' and that residual risk of avalanches still exists. Old, stubborn wind slabs may still exist in isolated areas. A basal facet/crust combo (weak sugary snow above and below a crust) near the ground is still a concern in some areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche on it unlikely (maybe a heavy load on a thin spot in steep terrain, rapid temperature change, or cornice fall), but the consequences would be large and very destructive.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Widespread large surface hoar was reported throughout the region. This layer is now probably buried by a few centimetres of snow. In some places the surface hoar may have been sitting on a crust, it may have only been a sun crust, and it may even have included sugary faceted snow. At any rate, it looks like this layer will be one to keep a close eye on in the coming weeks.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below freezing temperatures have developed a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and on most aspects. Some dry facetted snow may exist on sheltered North aspects. New surface hoar has been reported on slopes that are sheltered from the sun at and below treeline.&nbsp; A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The inversion broke down a little earlier than forecast in the interior, resulting in a solid melt-freeze crust that now has a layer of surface hoar above; even on southerly aspects. Forecast new snow amounts are only a couple of cm, so this layer may not get buried deep enough to persist through the next period of high pressure. If we get more snow than forecast expect the crust/surface hoar combination to be a very easy sliding layer. The deep persistent layer of weak facets continues to be a concern in shallow snowpack areas, however the re-frozen upper snowpack may make triggering less likely.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Sun crust on South-East through West aspects at all elevations. Surface facetting and surface hoar growth in sheltered areas below treeline. Previously formed wind slabs persist in exposed terrain at treeline and above. Basal weak layers persist and concern remains for full depth releases.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There is around 50cm of snow at the parking lot level of the local ski hills and over a meter on the peaks. Previously warm conditions followed by rain today has made the snowpack wet and cohesionless. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10 cm of new snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces: wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar on sheltered slopes. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The ongoing concern in the snowpack continues to be the basal facets found at higher elevations. Surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests. While the recent prolonged warm temperatures strengthened the overlying snowpack making these layers harder trigger large avalanche are still possible given the right trigger such as a heavy load over a thin spot, or cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The inversion broke down a little earlier than forecast in the interior, resulting in a solid melt-freeze crust that now has a layer of surface hoar above; even on southerly aspects. Forecast new snow amounts are only a couple of cm, so this layer may not get buried deep enough to persist through the next period of high pressure. If we get more snow than forecast expect the crust/surface hoar combination to be a very easy sliding layer. The deep persistent layer of weak facets continues to be a concern in shallow snowpack areas, however the re-frozen upper snowpack may make triggering less likely.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded.  However, a facet/crust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack remains a concern.  The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches.  This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event.  We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by a few centimetres of new snow.  This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above.  This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack and this remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by a few centimetres of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A dusting of snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces including stubborn wind slabs in exposed upper elevation terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered terrain and a crust on south aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures formed a strong and supportive midpack. Closer to the ground, the two weak layers we've been worried about thus far this season (the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo from October) are still there. While the increased strength of the overlying slab has made these layers have become increasingly unlikely to trigger, large and destructive avalanches are still possible with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Below freezing temperatures have developed a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and on most aspects. A couple of cm of new snow is now on top of the crust and/or facets and surface hoar that developed during the recent clear weather. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A solid melt-freeze crust has developed at all elevations on most aspects. New snow may bury surface hoar that has grown at and below treeline over the past few days. In the alpine new snow may not bond to the old surface depending on the timing of the cooling. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, however the bridging effect of the re-frozen upper snowpack may reduce the likelihood of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below freezing temperatures have created a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and on most aspects. Sheltered North aspects in the alpine may have stayed dry and now have facetted surface snow. New snow may not bond to the old surface where surface hoar has grown at and below treeline. In the alpine the new snow may not bond to the crust depending on the timing of the cooling. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack and this remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by a few centimetres of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded.&nbsp; However, a facet/crust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack remains a concern.&nbsp; The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches.&nbsp; This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event.&nbsp; We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes.&nbsp; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by a few centimetres of new snow.&nbsp; This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above.&nbsp; This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 5 and 20cm of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces including: old wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas, or a melt-freeze crust on sun-exposed slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although avalanche activity on this interface has tapered-off lately there is still the potential for large avalanche that could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are a few cm of new snow above re-frozen surface crusts. Moist snow may be found below the surface crust. Forecast cooler temperatures should develop a solid well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of light dry snow now sits above a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and all but some very sheltered North aspects. There was a widespread surface hoar layer reported after the temperature inversion ended. I suspect that the thin layer of light dry snow has buried the surface hoar, but at this time there is not enough snow above this weak layer to create an avalanche danger. The deep persistent layer of weak facets continues to be a concern in shallow snowpack areas, however the re-frozen upper snowpack may make triggering less likely.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A solid melt-freeze crust has developed at all elevations on most aspects. New snow may bury surface hoar that has grown at and below treeline over the past few days. In the alpine new snow may not bond to the old surface depending on the timing of the cooling. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, however the bridging effect of the re-frozen upper snowpack may reduce the likelihood of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow has fallen in the past 24 hours on the Southern inland highway passes. This new snow is sitting on a hard melt-freeze crust that developed after the recent record warm alpine temperatures. Warm temperatures at the beginning of the storm have created a good bond between the new snow and the crust; the new snow dried out as temperatures dropped during the storm and created a &quot;right side up&quot; snowpack. Reports from the Coquihalla tell us that there was a narrow band of surface hoar on North aspects below treeline before the new snow arrived. Only about 10 cm has fallen in the North of the region where more widespread surface hoar and near surface facetting was found before the thin layer of cold dry snow arrived.  There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Strong East-Northeast winds overnight may have transported any loose snow that was left on North aspects. Below freezing temperatures have developed a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and on most aspects. A couple of cm of new snow is now on top of the crust and/or facets and surface hoar that developed during the recent clear weather. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack and this remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by around 10cm of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, a facet/crust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by new snow (around 10cm in the northern part of region, 20cm+ in the area around Kimberley). This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, a facet/crust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack and this remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by around 10cm of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces including stubborn wind slabs in exposed upper elevation terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered terrain and a crust on south aspects.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures formed a strong and supportive midpack. Closer to the ground, the two weak layers we've been worried about thus far this season (the late November surface hoar, and a crust/facet combo from October) are still there. While the increased strength of the overlying slab has made these layers have become increasingly unlikely to trigger, large and destructive avalanches are still possible with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 10 and 25cm of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces including: old wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas, or a melt-freeze crust on sun-exposed slopes.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although avalanche activity on this interface has tapered-off lately there is still the potential for large avalanche that could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 10cm of new snow now overlies a variety of old surfaces: wind slabs in exposed terrain and well developed surface hoar on sheltered slopes. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The ongoing concern in the snowpack continues to be the basal facets found at higher elevations. Surface hoar buried at the end of November continues to appear in recent snowpack tests. While the recent prolonged warm temperatures strengthened the overlying snowpack making these layers harder trigger large avalanche are still possible given the right trigger such as a heavy load over a thin spot, or cornice fall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">4cm's overnight has added a new surface layer. The surface hoar noted in past days is now buried and preserved in isolated areas. The mid pack is surprisingly well settled with an average of 80cm's of dense wind packed snow. Below this, the facets are still present with the usual depth hoar making up the bottom 5cm's. Stability tests today gave a compression test moderate(16), sudden collapse on the depth hoar layer. The take away from this test is two fold. The density of the overlying snow (and its inherent ability to propagate) and the failure at the base of the snowpack. A bad combination.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">In terms of snowpack depth the Yukon region is sitting fairly close to recent seasonal averages. The White Pass has about 130 cm at treeline. Further north the Wheaton has a highly variable distribution of snow with an average depth of 60cm.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The recent rain formed a widespread crust across the region. It can be found on all aspects, up to ridge top. The crust is more developed in the White Pass and thins out further to the north. The warm temperatures have also promoted strengthening and settlement in the upper and mid snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Weak faceted snow can be found close to the ground. In many areas the supportive midpack is acting as a good bridge: protecting these basal layers from the strain of skiers or riders traveling above However, in shallower, rocky areas these bridging layers are less supportive and it could be possible to trigger the weaker snow layers below.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Valley bottom, weak thin snow pack up to 1950m. Starting to support above 2000m. Above this the midpack here has more structure than from a month ago. Approaching treeline faceting from the cold is more evident. Sheltered areas at treeline are still weak. Open areas at treeline and alpine have consolidated with previous wind effect. Testing the past 2 days have shown a consistently poor result with a sudden collapse at ground in a depth hoar layer. Snow depth Mud lake area 83cm, Burstall Pass 109cm.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of dry light new snow now covers the solid melt-freeze crust that developed last week. The new snow has been stripped by recent strong Northerly winds and transported into pockets of wind slab at higher elevations. Surface hoar was found in may areas before the new snow arrived, and cold temperatures are expected to preserve the surface hoar where it is buried below the thin layer of new snow. A well settled mid and lower snowpack may rest on basal facets, especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of light dry snow now sits above a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and all but some very sheltered North aspects. There was a widespread surface hoar layer reported after the temperature inversion ended. I suspect that the thin layer of light dry snow has buried the surface hoar, but at this time there is not enough snow above this weak layer to create an avalanche danger. The deep persistent layer of weak facets continues to be a concern in shallow snowpack areas, however the re-frozen upper snowpack may make triggering less likely.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10cm of recent snowfall overlies well developed surface hoar. These recent accumulations may exist as a thin soft slab in exposed terrain. Below this you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is now strong and well supported and deeper persistent weaknesses which formed early in the season have now become unlikely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30 cm of new snow has fallen in the past 48 hours on the Southern inland highway passes. This new snow is sitting on a hard melt-freeze crust that developed after the recent record warm alpine temperatures. Warm temperatures at the beginning of the storm have created a good bond between the new snow and the crust; the new snow dried out as temperatures dropped during the storm and created a &quot;right side up&quot; snowpack. Reports from the Coquihalla tell us that there was a narrow band of surface hoar on North aspects below treeline before the new snow arrived. Only about 10 cm has fallen in the North of the region where more widespread surface hoar and near surface facetting was found before the thin layer of cold dry snow arrived. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">A variety of old surfaces are is now buried by 0-15cm of snow. This old surface can be found as large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust (on open south facing slopes), facets (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally supportive to a riders weight and well settled. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In isolated areas where the snowpack is thinner, or in steep rocky features a facet/crust weakness near the ground remains a concern.&nbsp; In most places the depth of this layer and the strength of the overlying slab makes triggering an avalanche unlikely. However, if you were unlucky enough to find a weak spot the consequence could be a large, destructive avalanche.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The south of the region saw slightly more more precipitation in the last system. Near Kimberly up to 20cm of snow now sits on a variety of old surfaces, this amount is closer to 10cm further north in the Dogtooth range. The old surface can be found as large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas and at all elevations), a sun crust (on open south facing slopes), facets (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. North winds are redistributing the new snow reverse loading lee features in the alpine and forming reactive pockets of windslab up to 40cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally supportive to a riders weight and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In isolated areas where the snowpack is thinner or in steep rocky features a facet/crust weakness near the ground remains a concern. In most places the depth of this layer combined with the strength of the overlying slab makes triggering an avalanche unlikely. However, if you were unlucky enough to find a weak spot the consequence could be a large, destructive avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 10cm of recent snowfall overlies well developed surface hoar in many areas. The new snow may exist as a thin soft slab in wind-exposed terrain. Below this you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). No avalanche activity has been reported at this interface for some time; however, weaknesses continue to appear in snowpack tests. Although unlikely, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, rapid temperature change or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is about 5 cm of light dry new snow that has buried the melt-freeze crust that developed last week. The crust has been reported to be very hard with no foot penetration on solar aspects, and variable with a 10-15 cm foot penetration on shaded North aspects. There was widespread surface hoar at and below treeline before the new snow arrived, and can be found well preserved below the thin layer of new snow. Cold alpine temperatures are facetting the near surface snow at higher elevations. Some pockets of very soft slab have developed due to wind transported new snow. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, however the bridging effect of the re-frozen upper snowpack may reduce the likelihood of triggering.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25cm of low density snow now overlies well developed surface hoar which exists on most aspects, and in some cases, well into the alpine. Below this you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Most reports indicate the wind was light during and after the recent snowfall. However, I've also received accounts of localized moderate to strong winds which suggests the new snow likely exists as a reactive wind slab in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures have formed a strong and supportive midpack. Deeper persistent layers have become unlikely to trigger, although large and destructive avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are a few cm of new snow above re-frozen surface crusts. Moist snow may be found below the surface crust. Forecast cooler temperatures should develop a solid well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.  A facet/cust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack has recently become inactive but remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack in isolated areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are a few cm of new snow above re-frozen surface crusts. Moist snow may be found below the surface crust. Forecast cooler temperatures should develop a solid well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of low density snow overlies surface hoar buried on January 22nd.  As well, a melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week. The recently fallen low density snow may exist as a soft slab in exposed lee terrain</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is now strong and well supported and deeper persistent weaknesses which formed early in the season have now become unlikely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack in isolated areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of recent snow has been stripped by recent strong and moderate Northerly winds and transported into pockets of wind slab at higher elevations. These relatively thin windslabs are sitting on weak surfaces like a crust or on the late January surface hoar layer. These weak layers are likely to persist with the cold temperatures that are forecasted. A well settled mid and lower snowpack is resting on basal facets, which is a concern especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/cust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack has recently become inactive but remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Southern part of the region, the recent storm snow has been redistributed by light to moderate winds from the SW to the N to create soft slabs in the alpine and at top of treeline. Warm temperatures at the beginning of the storm have created a good bond between the new snow and the crust. This new snow would also be sitting on a surface hoar layer on N aspects below treeline.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region, 5-10 cm of recent snow has fallen over various surfaces, hard windslabs in the alpine, suncrust on S aspects and surface hoar in sheltered areas. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted crystals, this is mostly a concern on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Light winds in the alpine have started to move some of the surface snow. No sign of any significant windslabs yet. SE to SW aspects have a sun crust that will occasionally support a skier/rider. On non-solar aspects the surface snow is still loose. Classic dust on crust type skiing. The buried windslabs (and mid-pack in general) is faceting out with the cold temps. The loss of slab density is reducing the likelihood of the slabs propagating. No change in the quality of the basal layers. They are still weak. Treeline depths vary dramatically from area to area. Today's adventure was to Mt. Nestor where the average depth at treeline was 40 cm's. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In many areas light amounts of new snow overlie well developed surface hoar and old stubborn wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week. In some parts of the region the recent snow has been shifted by light winds into soft slabs, and in certain cases wind has stripped surfaces down to old hard slabs which formed weeks ago.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). No avalanche activity has been reported at this interface for some time; however, weaknesses continue to appear in snowpack tests. Although unlikely, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, rapid temperature change or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 25cm of low density snow now overlies well developed surface hoar which exists on most aspects, and in some cases, well into the alpine. Below this you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Most reports indicate the wind was light during and after the recent snowfall. However, I've also received accounts of localized moderate to strong winds which suggests the new snow likely exists as a reactive wind slab in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures have formed a strong and supportive midpack. Deeper persistent layers have become unlikely to trigger, although large and destructive avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack and this remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by around 10cm of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The south of the region saw slightly more more precipitation in the last system. Near Kimberly up to 20cm of snow now sits on a variety of old surfaces, this amount is closer to 10cm further north in the Dogtooth range. The old surface can be found as large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas and at all elevations), a sun crust (on open south facing slopes), facets (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. North winds are redistributing the new snow reverse loading lee features in the alpine and forming reactive pockets of windslab up to 40cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally supportive to a riders weight and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In isolated areas where the snowpack is thinner or in steep rocky features a facet/crust weakness near the ground remains a concern. In most places the depth of this layer combined with the strength of the overlying slab makes triggering an avalanche unlikely. However, if you were unlucky enough to find a weak spot the consequence could be a large, destructive avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of light dry snow now sits above a solid melt-freeze crust at all elevations and all aspects except some very sheltered North aspects. The thin layer of light dry snow is also sitting on a buried the surface hoar layer in isolated areas, but at this time, there is not enough snow above this weak layer to create an avalanche danger. The deep persistent layer of weak facets continues to be a concern in shallow snowpack areas, however the re-frozen upper snowpack may make triggering less likely.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">There is about 5 cm of light dry new snow that has buried the melt-freeze crust that developed last week. The crust has been reported to be very hard with no foot penetration on solar aspects, and variable with a 10-15 cm foot penetration on shaded North aspects. There was widespread surface hoar at and below treeline before the new snow arrived, and can be found well preserved below the thin layer of new snow. Cold alpine temperatures are facetting the near surface snow at higher elevations. Some pockets of very soft slab have developed due to wind transported new snow. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, yesterday’s report of a natural avalanche running to the ground on a very steep N facing slope in the alpine is a clear sign of this. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Between 15 and 25cm of low density snow now overlies well developed surface hoar which exists on most aspects, and in some cases, well into the alpine. Below this you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Most reports indicate the wind was light during and after the recent snowfall. However, I've also received accounts of localized moderate to strong winds which suggests the new snow likely exists as a reactive wind slab in some areas.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures have formed a strong and supportive midpack. Deeper persistent layers have become unlikely to trigger, although large and destructive avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Southern part of the region, the remaining recent snow has been redistributed by moderate to strong winds from the SW-W to build new windslabs in the alpine and at top of treeline. The bond between these new slabs to the underlying surface is now expected to be good. This new snow would also be sitting on a surface hoar layer on N aspects below treeline. Below 1200 m, very icy conditions exist with thin coverage. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region, 5-10 cm of light snow is sitting over various surfaces, hard windslabs in the alpine, suncrust on S aspects, surface hoar in sheltered areas and facets on N aspect at treeline. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted/depth hoar crystals, this is mostly the case on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas. Indeed, snowpack tests are still giving easy and moderate results in the depth hoar layer at the bottom of the snowpack.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> A few cms of recent snow is sitting on a variety of hard surfaces in the alpine from crust on solar aspects to hard windslabs. Also, some pockets of very soft windslabs have developed due to wind transported snow. It has been reported that these windslabs are reactive to skier traffic. At lower elevations, the thin layer of light dry new snow has buried the late January surface hoar at and below treeline. Cold alpine temperatures are </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">facetting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> the surface snow at higher elevations and lower elevation N aspect shallower snowpack areas is facetted to the ground in some areas. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist, the recent report of a natural avalanche running to the ground in basal facets on a very steep N facing slope in the alpine is a good sign of this. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The 5-10 cm of recent snow has been redistributed by NE winds most likely creating pockets of relatively thin windslabs on immediate lee features in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs or the light dry snow are sitting on weak surfaces like a widespread crust or on the late January surface hoar layer sheltered areas. At this time, there is not enough snow above this weak layer to create an avalanche danger. The deep persistent layer of weak facets continues to be a concern in shallow snowpack areas, however the re-frozen upper snowpack may make triggering less likely. At the surface of the snowpack, there is widespread growth of surface hoar and surface facetting that will continue with the forecasted clear and cold temperatures. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The south of the region saw slightly more more precipitation in the last system. Near Kimberley up to 20cm of snow now sits on a variety of old surfaces, this amount is closer to 10cm further north in the Dogtooth range. The old surface can be found as large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas and at all elevations), a sun crust (on open south facing slopes), facets (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. North winds are redistributing the new snow reverse loading lee features in the alpine and forming reactive pockets of windslab up to 40cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally supportive to a riders weight and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In isolated areas where the snowpack is thinner or in steep rocky features a facet/crust weakness near the ground remains a concern. In most places the depth of this layer combined with the strength of the overlying slab makes triggering an avalanche unlikely. However, if you were unlucky enough to find a weak spot the consequence could be a large, destructive avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack in isolated areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/cust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack has recently become inactive but remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Variable is the best word to describe the snowpack right now. Surface snow is either exposed sun crust, wind slab,  hard slab(hard to hold a ski edge) or a skiff of snow from last week's flurry. Sheltered, north aspects still held dry snow. As for the midpack, in the alpine and treeline it is supportive for ski traffic. Below treeline it is still weak, but supportive in most areas. No change in the lower layers. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack and this remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. This is referred to as a 'low probability, high consequence' event. We are recommending avoiding thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by around 10cm of new snow. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer may become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There are a few cm of new snow above re-frozen surface crusts. The current cold temperatures should develop a solid well settled snowpack.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 20cm of low density snow overlies surface hoar buried on January 22nd. As well, a melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week. Light low density accumulations from Sunday may hide soft slabs in exposed upper elevation lee terrain</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is now strong and well supported and deeper persistent weaknesses which formed early in the season have now become unlikely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In many areas light amounts of new snow overlie well developed surface hoar and old stubborn wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week. In some parts of the region the recent snow has been shifted by light winds into soft slabs, and in certain areas wind has stripped surfaces down to old hard slabs which formed weeks ago.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). No avalanche activity has been reported at this interface for some time; however, weaknesses continue to appear in snowpack tests. Although unlikely, avalanches at this interface could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, rapid temperature change or a heavy load over a thin spot.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">The 5-10 cm of recent snow has been redistributed by N and recently by SE winds creating pockets of relatively thin windslabs on immediate lee features in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs are sitting on weak surfaces like a crust or on the late January surface hoar layer. It has been reported that they are reactive to skier traffic. A well settled mid and lower snowpack is resting on basal facets, which is a concern especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations. At the surface of the snowpack, there is widespread growth of surface hoar and surface facetting that will continue with the forecasted clear and cold temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BE73F2E4">The total snowpack depth across the forecast region is quite variable. White Pass currently has average depths of 130cm. Further North, Powder Valley and the Wheaton Valley have seen much of their snowpack disappear with recent warm weather and wind. These areas have highly variable snowpacks.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BE73F2E4">A widespread melt-freeze crust can be found across the region on all aspects and at all elevations. Currently the crust is supportive but should break down somewhat with forecast cold temperatures. Recent clear weather has allowed weak surface hoar crystals to grow. The combination of surface hoar on a crust is worth noting as a potential weak layer if it ever snows again.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_BE73F2E4">Weak, sugary facets can still be found near the ground. Currently, the surface crust and strong mid-pack are providing a good bridge between the weight of a rider and the basal weakness; however, there is still potential to trigger this layer with a heavy load in steep, unsupported terrain with a shallow and rocky start zone.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Up to 30cm of low density snow overlies surface hoar buried on January 22nd. In many areas the buried surface hoar sits over hard, unreactive wind slabs. At higher elevations variable winds have redistributed surface snow into reactive new wind slabs on a variety of aspects. As well, a melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid pack is now strong and well supported and deeper persistent weaknesses which formed early in the season have now become unlikely to trigger. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Southern part of the region, windslabs are present lee of past strong SW and W winds under ridgetop in the alpine and at treeline. The bond between these new slabs to the underlying surface is now expected to be good. Last weeks storm snow would also be sitting on a surface hoar layer on N aspects below treeline. Below 1200 m, very icy conditions exist with thin coverage.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In the Northern part of the region, 5-10 cm of light snow is sitting over various surfaces, hard windslabs in the alpine, suncrust on S aspects, surface hoar in sheltered areas and facets on N aspect at treeline. There continues to be a concern for deeply buried layers of weak facetted/depth hoar crystals, this is mostly the case on slopes with a shallow and variable snowpack in the Duffey Lake and Chilcotin areas. These deep layers haven't been reactive for some time now, but snowpack tests are still showing easy and moderate sudden collapse results in the depth hoar layer at the bottom of the snowpack. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Clear and cold conditions are facetting the surface of the snow at higher elevations and at lower elevations on N aspects. Surface hoar is also growing at the surface in sheltered areas. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Generally light amounts of recent snow overlie well developed surface hoar (which seems most prevalent west of Crowsnest Pass), old, unreactive wind slabs and a melt-freeze crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. In some parts of the region the recent accumulations have been shifted by moderate winds into soft wind slabs.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak faceted snow exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although these weaknesses still appear in some snowpack tests, avalanches at this interface have become unlikely to trigger.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cms of low density snow is sitting on a variety of hard surfaces in the alpine from crust on solar aspects to hard windslabs. Also, some pockets of very soft windslabs have developed due to more recent wind transported snow. It has been reported that these windslabs are reactive to skier traffic and that the loose snow is sluffing out of steep N facing terrain. At lower elevations, the thin layer of light dry new snow has buried the late January surface hoar at and below treeline. Deeply buried weak layers continue to exist in the alpine and at treeline in shallow rocky areas, but have been unreactive lately. At the surface of the snowpack, a new surface hoar layer is growing and </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_B5813F7D">surface facetting</span></a><span class="s_3FE45715"> is happening which should continue with the forecasted clear and cold temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of dry snow has been redistributed by strong winds from the NE-SE winds creating pockets of relatively thin windslabs on immediate lee features in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs are sitting on weak surfaces like a crust or on the late January surface hoar layer. It has been reported that they are reactive to skier traffic. A well settled mid and lower snowpack is resting on basal facets, which is a concern especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations. At the surface of the snowpack, there is widespread growth of surface hoar and surface facetting which should continue with the forecasted clear and cold temperatures.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/cust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack has recently become inactive but remains a concern. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The south of the region saw slightly more more precipitation in the last system. Near Kimberley up to 20cm of snow now sits on a variety of old surfaces, this amount is closer to 10cm further north in the Dogtooth range. The old surface can be found as large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas and at all elevations), a sun crust (on open south facing slopes), facets (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. North winds are redistributing the new snow reverse loading lee features in the alpine and forming reactive pockets of windslab up to 40cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally supportive to a riders weight and well settled.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In isolated areas where the snowpack is thinner or in steep rocky features a facet/crust weakness near the ground remains a concern. In most places the depth of this layer combined with the strength of the overlying slab makes triggering an avalanche unlikely. However, if you were unlucky enough to find a weak spot the consequence could be a large, destructive avalanche. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Trace to 2cm of new snow in past 24hrs. Sun crusts are found on all solar aspects at all elevations, and have been remaining frozen all day due to cold temperatures. Alpine and treeline areas exhibit an array of wind slabs, some of which are extremely dense. Basal weaknesses remain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">There's about 10cm of low density snow above re-frozen surface crusts. The current cold temperatures should develop a solid well settled snowpack, although some surface faceting is likely within the low density surface snow.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">5-10 cm of dry snow has been redistributed by strong winds from the NE-SE winds creating pockets of relatively thin windslabs on immediate lee features in the alpine and at treeline. These windslabs are sitting on weak surfaces like a crust or on the late January surface hoar layer. It has been reported that they are reactive to skier traffic. A well settled mid and lower snowpack is resting on basal facets, which is a concern especially in thin snowpack areas at higher elevations. At the surface of the snowpack, there is widespread growth of surface hoar and </span><a id='GoToAdded' href="http://www.fsavalanche.org/encyclopedia/faceted_snow.htm" target="_blank"><span class="s_9255B882">surface facetting</span></a><span class="s_AA239A9B"> which should continue with the forecasted clear and cold temperatures. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Snow totals from the last pulse on Wednesday (140129) range from 5 - 20 cm with the greatest accumulations in the south of the region. This snow is faceting quickly in the cold temps. In wind exposed terrain, especially in the alpine, winds continue to form shallow wind slabs that vary wildly with regard to depth, hardness and distribution. These wind slabs should stick around a bit longer than we're normally accustomed to as they are resting on a weak layer that is composed of large grained surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, faceted grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Most of the snowpack is generally well consolidated. However, in thinner snowpack areas a facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack. The depth of this layer makes human triggering unlikely, but the consequences could be disastrous. In this low probability, high consequence scenario it's best practice to avoid thin or rocky areas on steep, convex, unsupported slopes. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">About 25cm of low density snow now overlies well developed surface hoar which exists on most aspects, and in some cases, well into the alpine. Below this you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Reports indicate the low density surface snow has been wind-pressed or redistributed into wind slabs in many places. I'd expect touchy slab conditions due to the presence of buried surface hoar anywhere where there was significant wind effect.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The recent prolonged warm temperatures have formed a strong and supportive midpack. Deeper persistent layers have become unlikely to trigger, although large and destructive avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated and layers are well bonded. In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow but has not yet become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on open south facing slopes, facet grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of any of the above. This layer is not yet a concern but is expected to become a problem in the future when we finally get more snowfall. A facet/crust weakness may exist near the bottom of the snowpack in isolated areas. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be large, destructive avalanches.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Up to 1cm of new snow overnight. Surface facetting. Sun crusts are present at all elevations on solar aspects and are remaining frozen through the day due to frigid temperatures. Alpine and treeline areas are highly variable in snow cover and condition, but wind slabs dominate the landscape. Basal weaknesses remain.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The January 29th system left 10 - 20 cm of snowfall in it's wake with the greatest accumulations in the southern portion of the region.  North winds redistributed the snow resulting in reverse loading of lee features in the alpine with reactive pockets of wind slab up to 40cm deep.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The new snow and wind slabs rest on a significant weakness composed of of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on south facing slopes, faceted grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of the above. This variable weak layer is expected to become a problem when/if it finally starts snowing again. The rest of the upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In isolated areas where the snowpack is thinner or in steep rocky features a facet/crust weakness near the ground remains a concern. In most places the depth of this layer combined with the strength of the overlying slab makes triggering an avalanche unlikely. However, if you were unlucky enough to find a weak spot the consequences could be deadly serious.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Recent and ongoing strong Easterly winds have redistributed the ~20 cm of recent light snow to create windslabs on lee features at all elevations. The windslabs, in exposed areas or loose dry snow in sheltered areas, overlies well developed and widespread surface hoar. This combination has resulted in skier triggered avalanches up to size 1.5, some shooting cracks and whumphing. It is expected that the recent new snow will not stabilize as fast as usual because of the persistent type grain (surface hoar, facets or crust) that it is sitting on and also because of the cold temperatures forecasted. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Below this layer, you'll likely find about 10cm of faceted snow over older surface hoar and old, unreactive wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Mid-Januarys prolonged warm temperatures have formed a strong and supportive midpack. Deeper persistent layers have become unlikely to trigger, although large and destructive avalanches are still possible in isolated terrain with the right input such as a cornice fall or a heavy load over a thin spot in steep terrain.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715"> </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">In most areas, a widespread weak layer is now buried by up to 10cm of new snow, but has yet to become a problem. This weak layer consists of large surface hoar (widespread in most sheltered and shaded areas at all elevations), a sun crust on south facing slopes, faceted grains (in colder areas or areas with a thinner snowpack), or a combination of the above. This variable weak layer is expected to become a problem when/if it finally starts snowing again. The rest of the upper and mid-snowpack are generally well consolidated. A facet/crust weakness near the bottom of the snowpack has gone dormant for now but may rear it's ugly head again in the future. The depth of this layer makes triggering an avalanche unlikely but the consequences would be very serious.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack and snow surface are currently undergoing faceting due to the cold temperatures.&nbsp; Wind exposed areas are heavily scoured and leeward features may have a thin wind crust or small isolated wind slabs.&nbsp; Sun exposed slopes have a sun crust but this is reported to be breaking down with the ongoing surface faceting.&nbsp; In sheltered areas, several centimetres of dry snow may overlie a layer of surface hoar.&nbsp; </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and there are currently no layers of concern.&nbsp; However, in thinner snowpack areas, a weak basal layer of facets or depth hoar may still be a concern.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The upper snowpack and snow surface are currently undergoing faceting due to the cold temperatures.  Wind exposed areas are heavily scoured and leeward features may have a thin wind crust or small isolated wind slabs.  Sun exposed slopes have a sun crust but this is reported to be breaking down with the ongoing surface faceting.  In sheltered areas, several centimetres of dry snow may overlie a layer of surface hoar.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">The mid and lower snowpack are well settled and there are currently no layers of concern.  However, in thinner snowpack areas, a weak basal layer of facets or depth hoar may still be a concern.</span><span class="s_3FE45715" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_AA239A9B">Thin windslabs may still exist in isolated leeward features on a variety of aspects at treeline and in the alpine while wind-exposed features have become heavily scoured.&nbsp; Recent cold temperatures and clear skies are causing faceting of the upper snowpack which should be causing the remaining wind slabs to break-down.&nbsp; In more sheltered areas, several centimetres of dry snow may overlie a melt-freeze crust, surface hoar, facets, or a combination of the above.&nbsp; The mid and lower snowpack are generally well consolidated and there are currently no layers of concern. However, weak basal facets may still be a concern in isolated areas, especially thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Thin windslabs may still exist in isolated leeward features on a variety of aspects at treeline and in the alpine while wind-exposed features have become heavily scoured.  Recent cold temperatures and clear skies are causing faceting of the upper snowpack which should be causing the remaining wind slabs to break-down.  In more sheltered areas, several centimetres of dry snow may overlie a melt-freeze crust, surface hoar, facets, or a combination of the above.  The mid and lower snowpack are generally well consolidated and there are currently no layers of concern. However, weak basal facets may still be a concern in isolated areas, especially thin snowpack areas at higher elevations.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">5-10 cm of recent snow overlie a variety of surfaces from well developed surface hoar, to old unreactive wind slabs or a melt-freeze crust on previously sun-exposed slopes. Today, there has been some windslab development from N and NE winds, but there is still lots of loose snow available for transport.  With the forecasted strong winds tomorrow, expect more and probably touchier windslabs, especially in the alpine and below ridgetop at treeline on S and SW aspects. </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Weak faceted snow exists in the lower snowpack, particularly in areas where the snowpack is thinner. Although these weaknesses still appear in some snowpack tests, avalanches at this interface have become unlikely to trigger. </span></p>
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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Yesterday's strong Northerly winds and today's gusty winds from variable directions have redistributed the surface snow into new windslabs that are probably still reactive to skier traffic, especially in the alpine. Yesterday, there were reports of cracking and of windslabs propagating quite far. In sheltered areas, 30 cm of low density snow overlies the surface hoar layer buried on January 22nd. In many areas the buried surface hoar sits over hard, unreactive buried wind slabs. A melt-freeze crust is now buried on most slopes that saw direct sun last week. The mid pack is now strong and well supported and deeper persistent weaknesses which formed early in the season have now become unlikely to trigger. </span></p>