Well it has begun - the Feb.23/26 surface hoar sandwich - which goes to
mountain top and is present in all mountain ranges - is now buried by
anywhere from 15-25cms. of new snow from last nights system.
So far here it hasn't really hit the depth (we have 15cms.) and density
of slab to be reactive in the form of slab avalanches (though some
places reported triggering 20cm. slabs on suncrust/surface hoar
interface with a trigger from a distance - helicopter-remote) - it won't
be long before those threshold values are reached.
I would be especially cautious of those slopes that have a buried
suncrust in combination with the surface hoar as they are likely to be
the earliest to react and may not need much snow.
It looks like tomorrow will give us a break in the weather followed by
another system on Friday/Saturday - so by the weekend things could be
quite touchy and I would urge everyone to practice conservative travel
and ski terrain choice.
This is not something that is going to disapear anytime soon and safe
skiing this spring will require a good knowledge of slope use coupled
with a rational and respectful use of terrain.
Be alert for change!
Cheers,
Scott Davis
Mountain Guide
_______________________________________________
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.
Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.