Falling freezing levels have provided for a weak crust recovery in the Alpine during the past few nights. The snow stability is currently hinging on the presence of a surface crust. Any sunny breaks and associated daytime warming will cause it to break down rapidly resulting in increasing levels of avalanche danger.
We are forecasted to see a series of weak disturbances throughout the week spinning off from a cold low pressure centre sliding down the coast from the Gulf of Alaska. Nightly Freezing levels are forecasted to be in the 1,500 metre range. Sunny breaks can be expected in between each disturbance. As the low pressure centre slowly drifts down the coast towards California this week we can expect to see a gradual drying trend towards the weekend.
The snowpack is generally very weak and isothermal with the exception of any North aspects above 2,200 metres where this isothermal trend has yet to become established. Avoid travelling across or under any mushy non-supportive slopes. Large destructive cornice falls are an ever-present possibility at this time of year. Give them a wide berth from below as well as from above.
Travel with caution if you choose to leave the ski area boundary. Hook-up with a partner and be equipped and prepared for self-rescue. Watch for snowmobiles and winch cats working if you are returning inbounds after operating hours.
The backcountry avalanche danger is rated as LOW in the morning, increasing with exposure to the sun and with daytime warming.
Conditions may vary and can change rapidly. Call 604-938-7676 for the most current information.for the backcountry areas adjoining Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
