Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Feb 27th, 2013 10:00AM

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

mbender, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Poor - Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather is uncertain on Friday

Weather Forecast

Synopsis: The precipitation associated with a Pineapple Express weather system approaching the province Thursday and Friday is not forecast to affect the region. However, the associated warm temperatures will. Thursday: Little to no precipitation, winds moderate from the west and alpine temperatures of -2. Freezing level rising to 1600m.Friday: Light snow, strong westerly winds and alpine temperatures -4. Freezing level to 2000m.Saturday: Light snow, Light southwest winds, and freezing level of 1800m.

Avalanche Summary

Recent reports indicate natural and skier triggered loose snow avalanches to size 1 at tree line and in the alpine.

Snowpack Summary

Up to 30 cm of recent storm snow sits above old surfaces including loose dry snow, old wind slabs and sun crusts. This recent snow has been shifted onto lee slopes by strong SW to NW winds. New storm slabs, cornices and wind slabs are likely. Mid and lower snowpack layers are generally well settled and stable.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Recent winds have created slabs in the lee of terrain features.

Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.>Be aware of thin areas that may propagate to deeper instabilites.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Cornices

Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.>Stay well to the windward side of corniced ridges.>

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Feb 28th, 2013 2:00PM