Each morning of the ski season, the Ski Patrol is engaged in ongoing avalanche risk assessments. Of the multiple daily chores, one stands out for its precision, tradition, and importance: The Standard Weather Observation. Weather is a key factor in predicting avalanches as it is a constant modifier of the snow pack. Events such as wind, sun, snow, rain, freezing temperatures, and thaws influence and create layers of snow with different characteristics. How those layers strengthen or weaken over time is dependent on past, present and future weather events. Observations are made at standard times and at the same plot each day. Weather recordings have strict standards that are set by The National Research Council of Canada, and the Canadian Avalanche Association. Great care is taken to be sure that all observation guidelines are followed with precision.
