Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Jan 29th, 2014 8:22AM

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

esharp, Avalanche Canada

South Rockies.

Summary

Confidence

Good - The weather pattern is stable

Weather Forecast

Synopsis:Â Another weak frontal system will pass over the province Thursday before an arctic air mass descends bring cool dry conditions.Thursday: Isolated flurries /Â Light to north winds / Freezing level: Valley bottom.Friday: Cloudy with sunny periods / LightÂ north winds /Â Freezing level: Valley bottom.Saturday: Sunny / LightÂ north winds / Freezing level: Valley bottom.

Avalanche Summary

No recent avalanche activity has been reported.

Snowpack Summary

Between 5 and 20cm of new snow overlies a variety of surfaces including: old wind slabs in exposed terrain, well developed surface hoar in sheltered areas, or a melt-freeze crust on sun-exposed slopes.The main concern in the region continues to be the weak buried faceted snow which exists in the mid or lower snowpack (depending where you are in the region). Although avalanche activity on this interface has tapered-off lately there is still the potential for large avalanche that could have nasty consequences. Possible triggers for this layer include cornice fall, or a heavy load over a thin spot.

Problems

Deep Persistent Slabs

With cooler temperatures triggering an avalanche on deep persistent layers has become less likely. However, large and destructive avalanche may be possible in steep, rocky start zones with thin or variable snow cover.

Avoid convexities or areas with a thin or variable snowpack.>Conditions are greatly improved, but be mindful that deep instabilities are still present.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Jan 30th, 2014 2:00PM