Avalanche Conditions Report #6 - Feb 8, 2024

Welcome to Episode 6 of the 23/24 Avalanche Conditions Report with Douglas Noblet and Jake Mentz, brought to you by Whitewater Ski Resort, Backcountry Skiing Canada, and State of the Snowpack.

The end of January and start of February brought a week of warm weather and rain, which has now frozen and formed the February 2nd crust, observed to ridgetop on all aspects. This crust is up to 5cm thick, and the snowpack remains generally moist below. Up to 20cm of recent snow sits on this crust, with some previous wind effect. On steep solar aspects a 1-2cm sun crust has formed; otherwise, ski quality remains preserved.

On Friday and Saturday, a ridge of high pressure will gradually shift eastward, providing sunny skies and clear nights with seasonal temperatures. On Sunday, the door opens for 5-15cm of fresh snow. Beyond Monday, another ridge of high pressure is forecast with cool dry weather for the week.

The avalanche hazard in the Whitewater backcountry remains moderate in the alpine with a wind slab on all aspects.

Stay tuned for Episode 7 and be sure to always check @avalanchecanada before heading into the backcountry.