Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 16th, 2015–Feb 17th, 2015

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Alpine

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

1: Low

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Little Yoho.

http://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/scond/Cond_E.asp?oID=19299&oPark=100092

Conditions in Little Yoho will likely improve more quickly than further east. However, poor ski conditions at lower elevations have prevented good recent observations from this area. Choose conservative terrain and gather your own snowpack info!

Weather Forecast

A ridge of high pressure is sitting above us. We can expect pleasant spring weather on Tues and Wed with light alpine winds, cool overnight temperatures (-10/ -15) and minimal solar effect on the snowpack despite the sunny skies. Winds should pick up to moderate from the West on Wed PM and we may see some light snow (5-10cm's) overnight Wed.

Snowpack Summary

Above 2000m, soft wind slabs have formed on many different aspects. 60-80 cm of settled storm snow at treeline and above overlies a generally settled snowpack. Some snow pits have found facets at this storm snow interface. Below 1800m a breakable surface crust exists on all aspects which becomes supportive and stronger at lower elevations.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanches were reported today in Little Yoho, however our field teams haven't had good observations from this area for a week or so. Although not in the Little Yoho region, on Saturday, a natural avalanche cycle to size 3 occurred in the Bow Summit area. Click here for photos of these events.

Confidence

Due to the number and quality of field observations

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

Recent winds from many directions have formed wind slabs that are susceptible to human triggering. Recent cornice growth is also a concern as these may trigger any deep weak layers that are present in the snowpack.

Extra caution needed around cornices with current conditions.
Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3