Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 21st, 2016 4:00PM

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

conrad janzen, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Good skiing and travel conditions continue at treeline and above. Watch for early season hazards down low and enjoy the early winter skiing!

Summary

Weather Forecast

Mainly cloudy with a few flurries especially along the divide on Tuesday. Winds are forecast to be in the light to moderate range and temperatures should cool slightly over the next several days.

Snowpack Summary

A few cm's of new snow and increasing winds in the alpine building small soft slabs near ridge crests. 15-30 cm of snow sits over the supportive Nov 12 crust. Below the crust the snowpack has settled, creating a very solid base. Sheltered areas where the recent snow has been preserved provide for great ski conditions at tree line and above.

Avalanche Summary

A couple small wind slabs near ridge crests as a result of ski cutting were reported at the local ski hills on Monday. We suspect some sluffing in steep gullies with the increasing winds and recent snow.

Confidence

Due to the number of field observations

Problems

Wind Slabs

Slightly stronger winds on Monday have increased the potential for wind slabs near ridge crests and in the high alpine terrain. Key an eye out for these if entering more aggressive terrain.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Use caution in lee areas. Recent wind loading have created wind slabs.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 22nd, 2016 4:00PM