Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Jan 20th, 2012–Jan 21st, 2012

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: 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.

Weather Forecast

Snowpack Summary

Avalanche Summary

Confidence

Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Saturday

Avalanche 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