tracks everywhere, both up and down. However, today it snowed (5 cm at the Pass and 7 cm at
Fidelity) and things are changing, so here are a few observations on what to expect in the next
little while.
The big issue are the surfaces that got buried today. There is a lot of variability in this regard and as
such forecasting instability will be complex for the next while. North and west aspects had
windcrust, steep solar aspects (SE through S through SW) had suncrust, protected east facing
slopes at all elevations and shaded below treeline terrain had decomposing and faceted grains on
the surface. On top of these surfaces, on virtually every slope, there was surface hoar. The size of
these crystals varied, at 2000m and below in sheltered areas it was huge, 20 mm or more. It was
sluffing downhill in rivulets like water. On other slopes it was smaller, but still will be very much a
concern. With any sort of load this February 4 surface hoar layer will be very reactive and
avalanches will occur on it.
Heads up once we get more than a few cms over the next few days!
Mark Klassen
Mountain Guide
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These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.
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