Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 9th, 2011 4:00PM

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

brent kozachenko, Parks Canada

Waterton Lakes.

A little cooler weather, but still windy. No new snow for several days, but a nice layer of surface hoar has formed in wind-protected locations to watch in the future. Good early-season condtions on a supportive midpack, 67cm snow depth Little Pr.

Summary

Problems

Wind Slabs

Strong westerly winds continue to move snow, although most fetch areas have been pretty much picked clean. A size 2 natural slab release was observed Friday on a steep northerly aspect on Mt. Custer with a crown depth of about 50 cms.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Deep Persistent Slabs

The basal weakness is bridged with dense snow in most locations, and is showing signs of settling and strengthening. Large triggers would probably be required to initiate a slide in most locations, but most or all of the season's snowpack may go!

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Dec 12th, 2011 4:00PM