Colder temperatures will lock in the existing snowpack. Storm slabs will form through the weekend. The Maligne Lake Road will remain closed through the weekend until debris can be cleared.
Weather Forecast
Colder temperatures and up to 25 cm over the weekend is expected with this next system. Winds will be light from the East. Cool temperatures with overcast skies will prevail into the middle of next week.
Snowpack Summary
Early morning rainfall has contributed to the weight and melting of the snowpack. A cooling trend tonight with freezing temperatures will build a crust that will add to the stability of the snowpack. Steady light snowfalls may bring up to 25 cm of snow through the weekend.
Avalanche Summary
A size 3 wet snow avalanche released in the middle of the night and temporarily closed Hwy 93 around the Icefields area on Friday morning. Also, a loose snow size 2 avalanche crossed the Maligne Lake road which was closed at the time. The Maligne Lake road will remain closed through the weekend.
Confidence
Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Saturday
Problems
Storm Slabs
Storm Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within new snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slabs typically last between a few hours and few days (following snowfall). Storm-slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.