Sections of the Icefields Parkway will be closed for avalanche control on Monday. Click here for more information.
A significant avalanche cycle is expected with the passing storm, exercise a high level of caution if you're heading out into the mountains
New slabs formed by the storm snow and strong winds will likely bond poorly to the faceted snow and/or crusts they overlie. Avalanches initiating at this interface also have a good chance of stepping down to the basal weaknesses.
The base of the snowpack is inherently weak and untrustworthy. Tickling this deep layer would result in a high consequence avalanche.
The field team observed several size 2 wind slabs in the Miette lake area mainly on East aspects in the alpine. Several other 12-24hr old similar avalanches were noted in the same area. Feb 23 three avalanches occurred in the Churchill group originating in steep, rocky, unsupported terrain ranging in size from 1.5 to 2.5. Expect increased avalanche activity next couple of days as the storm brings new snow and winds.
10 to 30 cm of new snow has fallen over the region, with the highest amounts around the Columbia Icefields. This has been accompanied by strong westerly winds at tree line and above. The new snow is falling on faceted snow which sits on a 1-3cm thick crust that is down 20-50 cm. The mid-pack is faceted with basal depth hoar and well developed facets near ground. HS ranges from 60 to 100cm.
Strong westerly winds will begin to weaken during the day on Monday, and allow the snowfall to taper off over the region.
The Mountain Weather Forecast is available at Avalanche Canada https://avalanche.ca/weather/forecast
