Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 25th, 2014 4:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is moderate, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Loose Dry.

snow safety, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

The storm is going to peak Weds night. If forecasted amounts of snow come to fruition the danger rating could go to Considerable in the alpine on Thurs. Expect rugged conditions (rocks/bush) BTL.

Summary

Weather Forecast

A significant storm is entering the forecast region starting tomorrow. Up to 40cm is expected and this will obviously elevate the danger rating.

Snowpack Summary

Below tree line there is not enough snow for avalanches. Above 1900m a buried rain crust that formed in early November lies 20-40cm above the ground. This along with surface hoar in some areas is being buried by light snow and will create a good sliding layer as the new snow accumulates. Some lee slopes near the divide have thin wind slabs.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches observed or reported today.

Confidence

Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Wednesday

Problems

Wind Slabs

With the addition of new snow, expect windslabs to up to 40cm thick in lee areas.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Dry

This problem will be most prevalent in gulley features.

Avoid travelling under cliffs that are exposed to sluffing from above.The volume of sluffing could knock you over; choose your climb carefully and belay when exposed.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 26th, 2014 4:00PM