Avalanche Forecast

High

Over the last few days some small windslabs and sluffs have been triggered in the surface snow in the alpine. On Monday, Lake Louise snow safety reported ski-cutting a few wind slabs in immediate lees of isolated features up to size 1, one of which was 40 cm deep and propagated 15 m.

The recent cool temperatures have decreased the deeper avalanche activity.

A hard surface crust exists on all aspects except for north facing alpine slopes above 2200 m where dry, wind affected snow can be found.

In the mid-pack, the Feb 3 persistent layer (crust/facet layer) remains a feature in the snowpack but has been unreactive with recent colder temperatures. This layer is a greater concern in thick to thin areas.

Wednesday: A low pressure system tracking to the north will bring increasing clouds, scattered flurries, and isolated rain showers with light to mod SW winds. Freezing levels will rise through the day to near 2300 m.

Wednesday night: Light flurries and freezing levels near 1700 m.

Thurs/Friday: Cooler daytime temperatures and accumulations of up to 5-10 mm are possible.

For more detailed weather click here.

• Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
• Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transitions from thick to thin.
• Use extra caution around cornices: they are large, fragile, and can trigger slabs on slopes below.