State of the Snowpack - Jan 18, 2024
Date: Jan 18 2024
Submission: Judson Wright, ACMG Guide, Lead guide and owner at Kootenay Backcountry Guides
Location: The Burn 5 Mile Creek, WH20
Aspect: NW
Elevation: 2020 m
Total snowpack: 150-180cm
Highlights from today’s report.
1. The most recent 25cm storm snow has been redistributed into slabs and was reactive naturally and to skier traffic.
2. The winds were variable so slabs can be found in many areas. Expect to find them in open terrain and below features where the wind can deposit snow.
3. The most recent storm snow sits on facets and is unlikely to bond in the cold temperatures. As it warms up further slab may form.
4. Sheltered areas have low-density snow.
5. The lower elevations in forests or areas where rocks are, are still present are dangerous due to hazards under the snow. Below 1850 in the forests many hazards are still present.
6. Overall, the snowpack is highly faceted, weak and contains multiple crusts.
Stay safe and have fun!
We still have some spots on our upcoming courses! We hope to see you on one soon.
