Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 24th, 2016 4:00PM

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

Parks Canada Stephen Holeczi, Parks Canada

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Banff Yoho Kootenay.

A storm Thursday night into Friday will likely increase the wind slab problem at upper elevations.  Watch locally for snow amounts and how the wind is transporting it.  Ridge tops and gully terrain will be likely areas to find new wind slabs.  SH

Summary

Weather Forecast

A vigorous low is approaching the divide.  24 hour snow quantities should see 10-25cm, with lesser amounts in Eastern areas.  This will be accompanied by a cold front.  Expect moderate to strong SW winds at upper elevations, easing in the afternoon. 

Snowpack Summary

15-30 cm of snow sits on top of a supportive (5-10cm)  crust except on high N which overlies a strong base. The bond to the crust seems strong in most places.  Winds over the day have changed the surface in many areas and new wind slabs are starting to form in alpine lee areas. 

Avalanche Summary

A few size 1-1.5 avalanches were noted in the quartz ridge area of the Sunshine back country, otherwise no new were reported.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain on Friday

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
Increased winds and new snow will increase the avalanche danger in the short term.  Watch locally for wind slab formation on lee slopes and gullies.
Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 25th, 2016 4:00PM

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