Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 9th, 2011–Dec 12th, 2011

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: 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.

Avalanche 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