Banff Yoho Kootenay

The natural avalanche cycle over but human triggered avalanches are still likely. Continue to practice conservative decision making.

On Saturday a size 2 skier triggered avalanche failed as a deep persistent slab at treeline and ran 600m scrubbing to ground. One skier was caught and sustained injuries that required an overnight rescue.

Numerous Na slab avalanches up to size 2 have occurred in the alpine over the past few days.

Last week's storm snow has settled to 20-50cm over the Dec 2 weak layer which consists of the basal facets and surface hoar. A rain crust (1 to 7cm thick) exists within the storm snow up to 2300m on all aspects. The thickness of the rain crust tapers with increasing elevation.

Tuesday will be mainly sunny with light southwest ridgetop winds and a temperature inversion, alpine highs of -6°C to -3°C. Wednesday will be much the same with increased winds and slightly higher freezing level. The next potential for snow is Thursday.

For more information, click Mountain Weather Forecast.

• If triggered, wind slabs avalanches may step down to deeper layers resulting in larger avalanches.
• Avoid exposure to overhead avalanche terrain, avalanches may run surprisingly far.