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Avalanche Forecast

Archived

Jan 1st, 2022–Jan 2nd, 2022

Alpine
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Below Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely.
Alpine
Natural avalanches possible, human triggered probable.
Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Below Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely.
Alpine
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered possible.
Below Treeline
Natural avalanches unlikely.

Regions

Kananaskis.

Strong SW winds at upper elevations are making the windslab problem more reactive. Be thinking about this as you transition into treeline and alpine terrain.

Confidence

High -

Weather Forecast

Strong westerly winds will continue overnight as the warmer air moves into the region on Sunday. We may see 3-5cm of snow but with the winds, its unlikely to be even distribution. Temperatures will rise to more "seasonal" with daytime highs around -13C.  

Avalanche Summary

One cornice collapse that triggered a sz 2 avalanche on a NE aspect at 3000m was observed on the Goat range. More wind was evident in the northern part of the forecast region.  

Snowpack Summary

In alpine areas the wind is starting to leave its mark. Softer snow was found on Saturday but creative terrain selection was needed. Expect more widespread windslabs in alpine areas and even down into treeline that are gaining in size and trigger-ability. The other concern at treeline (2250m) and lower is the Dec 2nd crust that is down 60-90cm. A layer of facets over this crust is producing hard sheers and so far, the only reason it hasnt been a problem was the lack of cohesive snow overlying this layer. That may change over the next few days as windslabs develop. Be especially cautious of this interface at treeline in steeper or unsupported terrain features. Dont be afraid to pull out your shovel and check this layer out for yourself also! 

Terrain and Travel

  • Avoid slopes that sound hollow or drum-like.
  • Be careful with wind slabs, especially in steep, unsupported and/or convex terrain features.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer of snow (a slab) formed by the wind. Wind typically transports snow from the upwind sides of terrain features and deposits snow on the downwind side. Wind slabs are often smooth and rounded and sometimes sound hollow, and can range from soft to hard. Wind 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.