Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Little Yoho.
Ice climbers should limit exposure to gullied terrain and overhead hazard Friday as we expect increased winds, some new snow and warmer temperatures. SH
Weather Forecast
10-15cm Friday is forecast for the Little Yoho region at higher elevations with strong winds and freezing levels between 1700 and 1900 meters. This could mean the possibility of rain at lower elevations around the town of Field.
Snowpack Summary
Building winds Thursday are continuing to move the 20-30cm recent snow, forming wind slabs at treeline and above. The overall snowpack has become weaker from the facetting process but is still supportive. Below treeline snow was still unaffected by wind or temperature in this region Thursday, but this could change quickly with incoming weather.
Avalanche Summary
Small sloughs were noted in Little Yoho today, but no new avalanches were reported. Avalanche control on Mt. Bourgeau produced numerous avalanches size 1- 2 , one of which started as a wind slab and entrained all of the facets in the track, hitting the road. This is consistent with other observations this week from thin snowpack areas.
Confidence
Timing, track, or intensity of incoming weather system is uncertain on Friday
Avalanche Problems
Loose Dry
New snow over facets have been waiting for a trigger to start sliding, and this can be expected with warmer temperatures and wind Friday. Ice climbers should especially take note of this for areas like Mount Dennis and Mount Stephen.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Likely - Very Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Wind Slabs
Continued formation of wind slabs will occur Friday, and these will entrain new snow and facets which can run further than expected.
Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Possible - Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2