Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Dec 23rd, 2016 4:44PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Persistent Slabs.
snow safety,
Avalanche Canada
We now have a more typical rockies snowpack with firm slabs sitting over a variety of very weak layers. It will be tricky to assess this persistent slab problem. Step way back and limit your exposure to avalanche terrain at tree line and above.
Summary
Weather Forecast
Light winds with a SE flow for the weekend and some light snow in Eastern regions. Alpine temperatures will be in the -14C range. A Westerly flow reasserts itself on Monday with some light precipitation and moderate winds.
Snowpack Summary
An average of 15-40cm sits over the weak Dec.19th facets. Wind slabs up to 60cm have been observed over this same layer in alpine areas. The wind slab/facet interface was touchy in avalanche control work over the last 2 days and will persist for some time. The Nov crust is down 30-80cm and as yet there are limited observations of it being reactive.
Avalanche Summary
Explosive control on Wed/Thurs resulted in avalanches up to size 2.5-3 where wind effect was prevalent. The slabs failed on the persistent Dec.19th facets. Ski hills had a couple of size 2 explosive triggered avalanches on the Nov 12 crust on solar aspects with a thin snowpack where the crust is more pronounced. Not many naturals reported or seen.
Confidence
Problems
Persistent Slabs
New snow and strong winds have created slabs on in many areas above tree line that can be easily triggered. These slabs sit over a weaker faceted layer creating a weak interface that will last for some time.
- Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.
- Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Dec 24th, 2016 4:00PM
