Freezing levels are rising to above ridgetop across the Rockies, with some areas seeing it reach to 3000m by Wednesday. Cool temps are forecasted to return to the region on Thursday.
The Icefields Parkway is closed for avalanche control.
Check Alberta 511 for updates
Strong winds from various directions has created easily triggerable winds slabs across the region, failing lower down in start zones.
Short-term problem with big consequences. Varied precipitation across the region, with rising freezing levels to ridgetop forecasted
Be cautious where the snowpack transitions from thick areas to thin areas. Recent avalanches up to size 3 have been observed on this layer. This problem encompasses multiple weak layers of facets, crusts, and basal facets from November and December.
Numerous size 1-2 windslabs were observed in the Parker ridge area on NE aspects at ~2100m. A size 3.5 deep persistent slab, triggered by a large cornice failure, was observed on a NE aspect at 2400m running to below treeline.
The snowpack is undergoing a significant transition. Strong winds, warm temperatures, and mixed precipitation have created reactive wind slabs at ridgetop. At treeline and below, the snowpack is becoming saturated, increasing the likelihood of wet slab formation across the region.
In the short term, the midpack may lose structural integrity—particularly in shallow areas (<100 cm)—which may activate the weak basal facet layer.
Overnight: Flurries, up to 6 cm. Low -2 °C. Light ridge wind. Freezing level: 2400m.
Tuesday: Mainly cloudy with isolated wet flurries. High 2 °C. Light SW winds. Freezing level: 2700m.
Wednesday: A mix of sun and cloud. Low -4 °C, High 5 °C. Ridge wind SW: 15 km/h. Freezing level: 3100m.
