Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Akamina, Bull, Crowsnest North, Crowsnest South, Elkford East, Elkford West, South Rockies.
Avoid steep, wind-loaded slopes. Recently formed wind slabs may remain reactive to rider-triggering.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
On Wednesday, skier-triggered wind slabs (size 1) were reported from alpine and treeline terrain.
On Thursday, explosive control produced one size 1 wind slab from alpine terrain.
Snowpack Summary
Up to 20 cm of recent snowfall accompanied by southwest winds created wind slabs in lee areas and scoured surfaces at alpine and treeline elevations.
Below the recent snow is a melt-freeze crust on south-facing slopes and hard, wind-pressed snow in exposed terrain.
The snowpack depth varies greatly, windward slopes may only have 50 cm on them while leeward slopes could have as much as 200 cm.
Weather Summary
Friday Night
Cloudy with isolated flurries. 20 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Saturday
A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries. 15 to 40 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C.
Sunday
A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries. 20 to 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C.
Monday
Cloudy with up to 2 cm of new snow. 20 to 50 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Keep your guard up at all elevations. Wind slab formation has been extensive and could extend into openings below treeline.
- Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Recently formed wind slabs may remain reactive to rider-triggering. Avoid wind-loaded areas where the snow feels stiff or slabby.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South, North West.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 2