Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 14th, 2014 4:00PM

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

Parks Canada steve blagbrough, Parks Canada

Our weather forecast models are calling for close to 25cm of snow starting on Saturday night through into Monday morning in the Icefields area.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Our forecast models are calling for heavy snowfall in the Icefields area starting on Saturday evening . This combined with moderate to strong south westerly winds and relatively warm conditions should lead to an increase in the avalanche hazard.

Snowpack Summary

Very strong winds and mild temperatures earlier in the week have led to touchy slab conditions, particularly at tree line. Good skiing can still be found in sheltered locations but care should be taken in selecting your line.

Avalanche Summary

Field team remotely triggered several avalanches in the Parker Ridge and Hilda Creek area on Wednesday. These stiff slabs were easily triggered from adjacent slopes and combined with extensive whumphing highlights the unstable nature of the snow at treeline in certain locations. 

Confidence

Problems

Wind Slabs

An icon showing Wind Slabs
The avalanche cycle in the alpine has eased from earlier in the week but we will see it ramp up with more snow on Saturday night. This loading pattern is looking perfect for increasing the sizeĀ  and instability of existing cornices.
Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.If triggered the wind slabs may step down to deeper layers resulting in large avalanches.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 3

Persistent Slabs

An icon showing Persistent Slabs
A field team in the Icefields area on Wednesday remotely triggered several slab avalanches and experienced extensive whumphing at tree line elevations. Care is needed as you navigate slopes in this elevation band.
Avoid steep lee and cross-loaded featuresBe careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Mar 15th, 2014 4:00PM

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