Avalanche Forecast
South Rockies
Danger may be one step higher in localized areas that receive more than 10 cm of new snow on Saturday.
Avalanche Problem 1: Wind Slabs
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Use caution when transitioning into wind effected terrain.
- Avoid areas that look freshly loaded with snow; especially convex features below ridgetops.
- Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transition from thin to thick.
Avalanche Problem 2: Loose Wet
What Elevation?
Which Slopes?
Chances of Avalanches?
Expected Size?
Rising freezing levels and daytime warming have been triggers for recent large, loose wet snow releases. Once moving, a loose, wet release may have the potential to trigger a slab on a deeper weak layer.
Travel and Terrain Advice
- Cornices become weak with daytime heating. Give them a wide berth from above and below.
- Minimize exposure to sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong.
- Use extra caution on slopes if the snow is moist or wet.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches were reported in this region on Thursday.
Snowpack Summary
5-10 cm recent storm snow and moderate variable winds have formed small wind slabs on a variety of aspects sitting on hard crusts on lee features at treeline and above.
Numerous crusts exist within the top 100 cm of the snowpack. Some parts of the region may have a surface hoar layer roughly 60 cm deep on sheltered northerly aspects at treeline.
A well settled midpack sits above sugary facets in many parts of the region, especially thin snowpack areas.
Weather Forecast
SATURDAY: Mix of sun and cloud. Moderate to strong southwesterly ridgetop winds. Alpine temperature -3. Freezing level around 1900 m.
SUNDAY: Mix of sun and cloud. Moderate southwesterly ridgetop winds. Alpine temperature 0. Freezing level around 2000 m.
MONDAY: 5-10 cm new snow. Light easterly ridgetop winds. Alpine temperature -5. Freezing level around 1500 m.
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New snow and wind have formed small wind slabs on leeward areas near ridge crests and convex features. These slabs may be touchy were they sit on a recent crust.