Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 20th, 2012 4:00PM

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

chris gooliaff, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Tonight's storm may bring 15-20cm of snow across the region, perhaps more on the west side of the Divide. Winds are expected to be strong from the SW, with temp's moderating to seasonal values. We expect a natural avalanche cycle with this new snow.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Storm Slabs

The recent cold snap has faceted out the surface snow, creating a weak base for the incoming storm snow. Winds are forecasted to be moderate to strong from the west, so we could see fast development of storm slabs on a weak, sugary base.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Deep Persistent Slabs

There is a weak, faceted base found in most places except the west side of the divide. Many thin, trigger spots exist in the alpine and treeline due to strong winds. Click our Facebook link below to see images of recent basal failures near Sunshine.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Wind Slabs

Climbers should avoid Cascade Falls and Rogan's Gully this weekend. There is a large amount of snow above these routes and with the coming storm and warm temp's, natural avalanches will threaten routes with large bowls above.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Jan 21st, 2012 4:00PM