Avalanche forecast

Waterton Lakes

Feb 21 – 24, 2020Parks Canada
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Archived · expired 7 years ago

Avalanche danger

Sat
Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

The SW winds have returned spreading the windslab problem throughout Waterton Park. Enjoy the excellent travel conditions while avoiding heavily wind loaded pockets.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    Strong winds over the next three days will amplify this problem in specific locations.

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

Weather Forecast

Friday: Mostly Sunny. Freezing level at valley bottom. SW wind 60km/h gusting to 90.

Saturday: Mostly Sunny. Freezing level 1500m. Strong SW wind with extreme gusts.

Sunday: A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries. Freezing level at valley bottom. Strong SW wind with extreme gusts.

Snowpack Summary

A sun crust is developing on solar aspects. In lee areas, multiple layers of windslab sit over the Feb 1st melt freeze crust which exists up to approx 2100m. Reactivity of this windslab is extremely variable. Expect windslabs to become more sensitive as temperature rises. The midpack is strong, though weaker basal facets can be found in thin areas.

Avalanche Summary

One size 2 natural windslab avalanche occurred on a E aspect at cameron lake between Monday afternoon and Thursday AM.

Continued cornice growth in the alpine.

Confidence

Regions covered