Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Jan 6th, 2025 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Wind Slabs.
Avalanche Canada,
Avalanche Canada
As winds increase watch for fresh wind slab development at upper elevations.
Look for sheltered areas where snow is preserved and good quality riding can be found.
Summary
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
Over the weekend, several human and explosive-triggered wind slab avalanches were reported up to size 1 in the Crowsnest region.
If you head out in the backcountry, let us know what you are seeing by submitting a MIN report!
Snowpack Summary
In the eastern part of the region, strong west winds have formed 10 to 20 cm thick wind slabs on lee slopes at upper elevations. This sits on old wind slabs and variable surfaces.
In the western part of the region, 10 to 20 cm of unconsolidated snow is found. This overlies a settled mid-pack.
At lower elevations, the upper snowpack contains a melt-freeze crust and facets layer, particularly in south-facing terrain.
Snowpack depth varies significantly across the region, from 50 to over 150 cm.
Weather Summary
Monday Night
Clear skies. 10 to 20 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
Tuesday
A mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C.
Wednesday
A mix of sun and cloud. 30 to 50 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C.
Thursday
Mainly sunny. 10 to 25 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -6 °C.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind-affected terrain.
- Seek out wind sheltered terrain below treeline where you can avoid wind slabs and find great riding.
- Be aware of the potential for loose avalanches in steep terrain where snow hasn't formed a slab.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Moderate gusting strong west winds have built wind slabs on lee slopes at upper elevations. Wind slabs are most sensitive to triggering when they are newly formed. Look for signs of wind transport as you move through the terrain.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South, North West.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Jan 7th, 2025 4:00PM
