Banff Yoho Kootenay

Avalanche problems

• 

  Wind Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline

  Likelihood

  Possible - Likely

  Size

  1–3

  Natural avalanches are occurring with on going wind loading and there have been several size 2-3 avalanches on windloaded features, 30-50 degrees in steepness, up Highway 93N. As winds taper & temps drop tonight so will the naturals.
• 

  Storm Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline

  Likelihood

  Possible - Likely

  Size

  1–3

  The December 10 surface hoar (5-7 mm) is down approximately 70-115 cm. The distribution of this layer is spotty throughout our region (Whymper, Takakkaw Falls, Sunshine). Skier remote size 2 on this layer near Sunshine today just above treeline.
• 

  Deep Persistent Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline

  Likelihood

  Possible - Likely

  Size

  2–3

  Today large windslab releases continued to step down into the basal weak facets creating large slides. Even though we are out of high hazard, resist the blue sky/fresh powder/new year's lure into steeper terrain, skier triggering remains likely.