Kananaskis

First significant storm of the season approaching. Warm temps, rapid loading and strong winds will likely cause an avalanche cycle.  

A warm and wet system is fast approaching the region and should arrive by Wednesday night/early Thursday morning. 30-50cm of snow is expected along with strong SW winds and freezing levels around 2000m. This will likely be our first avalanche cycle of the season.  

Some recent loose wet slides from steep solar areas especially in thin rocky terrain. 

Observations are still very limited but there expect a melt freeze crust on all aspects up to 2300m and on solar aspects right up to the peaks. Lower elevations below treeline are still below threshold in most areas but as you approach treeline 40-80cm of snow can be found and some areas are stripped right down to bare rock due to the strong winds from last week. 

• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Ice climbers should be equipped with avalanche safety gear.