Spring is in the air?

Wind and cold have been the story of the past 5 weeks and it appears the pattern is finally going to shift. Temperatures appear to be on the rise and as the Arctic airmass retreats the wind should subside with it. As the sun warms the air in the spring the potential for convective snow is higher with intense snowfall rates and gusty winds over short periods of time. Also, direct sun on solar slopes will warm the surface quickly and destabilize the snow at a rapid rate. During this cycle watch for fresh slabs on cold aspects and loose, wet avalanches on solar slopes. As well, the warm temperatures can increase the load on lower layers in the snowpack and increase the likely hood of large, destructive avalanches.

We are still monitoring some of these deeper layers including the surface hoar/crust combination from Feb 1 that may be especially prone to trigger on solar slopes at Treeline elevations and below. This layer continues to produce propagation likely results in snowpack tests and is taking it's time to settle out.

Spring can provide some great skiing but keep yourselves informed on the most recent avalanche and weather conditions through your local resort and Avalanche Canada. Stay safe and enjoy the rest of the season!

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