Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 2nd, 2014 4:00PM

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

snow safety, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

While the hazard rating is Moderate, our uncertainty levels remain high for any steep slopes due to the variability of test results and the potential for propagations on the Feb 10th layer. Enjoy the new snow but approach steep terrain with caution.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The next two days will bring flurries with accumulations of 5-10cm each day. Temperatures range from -14'C to -7'C in the alpine with moderate to strong Westerly winds. Wednesday brings cooler temperatures and clearing skies.

Snowpack Summary

A few cm's of new snow over the previous sun crust and wind slabs. 25-45cm of snow sits on top of the Feb10th layer comprised of facets, surface hoar, and on solar aspects a sun crust. Test results are generally in the moderate to hard range but still show that propagations are likely in many areas. No shears found in the basal layers.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported or observed today.

Confidence

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

Problems

Persistent Slabs

This layer is slowly gaining strength however test results continue to show that wide propagations are possible in some areas which would lead to severe consequences. Sudden collapse results and low scores in propagation saw tests are still common.

Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.Assess start zones carefully and use safe travel techniques.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wind Slabs

Yesterdays North winds created thin windslabs in many locations which are now covered with new snow. The increasing W winds will also build new winds slabs over the next two days. Probe for these with your poles and avoid steep wind loaded slopes.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 3rd, 2014 4:00PM