Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 30th, 2012 4:00PM

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

Brad White, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Decent ski quality reported in sheltered locations at treeline. SH

Summary

Weather Forecast

5-10cm at TL by Sat. night and light amounts through to Monday.Â We may see increased alpine SW flow Sat. with freezing levels up to 1600-1700 during the day.Â Possibly rain in lower elevation areas W of divide such as Field.

Snowpack Summary

Sunshine study plot CTH24RP on Nov. 6 CR approx. 20 cm above ground.Â Crust is breaking down.Â Small SH noted (3mm) 10cm below surface.Â 90-100cm at TL in most areas, and average 5cm HN24 with little wind effect

Avalanche Summary

Lake Louise ski hill had no results from explosives control in alpine terrain.Â No other avalanches observed.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Saturday

Problems

Wind Slabs

Watch locally for thin wind slabs developing in the lees of ridges if we receive increased winds Sat as there is a lot of snow available for transport.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

The Nov 6 raincrust is down 50-90 cm. Although we have not seen any recent activity on this crust, this is still a significant layer in the snowpack. Evaluate this layer carefully prior to entering steeper/bigger terrain.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 3

Valid until: Dec 1st, 2012 4:00PM