After last weeks storm numerous parties were out and about in both the
Rockies and the Selkirks. Reports vary slightly but indicate that between 20
to 40cms of storm snow has remained at upper elevations (2500m and higher)
and especially on northerly aspects. Below that, the snow has largely
disappeared. The bulk of the precipitation hit the southern Rockies and the
more northerly areas received less snowfall. Most groups report about 20cm
of foot penetration. There is no mention of recent avalanche activity
however, there is enough volume of snow that wet sloughing is a concern on
sunny exposures later in the afternoon. While the avalanche danger is low it
is worth keeping in mind that high mountain terrain is unforgiving and even
a small slab could have serious consequences. don't rule out the possibility
of windslabs.
Travel is quite good on the glaciers but don't trust those new snow bridges!
Careful leaders, probing and a tight rope are essential. Most ice faces
have cleaned off nicely with a bit of snow climbing to offer relief from the
boney cold front pointing. Some water ice can be found, a new ice line was
climbed on Mt. Andromeda, but the low elevation ice is leaving fast with a
return to mild temps.
Cool temps and dry conditions should make for great alpine climbing until
the next precip arrives on Saturday or Sunday.
James Blench
ACMG/UIAGM
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