Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 16th, 2012 8:25AM

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

mike.koppang, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

No significant new snow, but increasing winds have continued to distribute the existing snow. Be cautious of freshly loaded lee features and the potential for new cornices. MM

Summary

Confidence

Fair - Timing of incoming weather is uncertain on Saturday

Weather Forecast

Winds increasing overnight to strong during cold front. Precip forecasted to begin Saturday night. Up to 24 cm expected.

Avalanche Summary

No new observations over the past 24hrs.

Snowpack Summary

Moderate to Strong SW winds continued to redistribute this snow onto lee features building persistent slabs. Nov 6th crust is now down 30-50cm at treeline elevations. Minimal snowcover at lower elevations.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Isolated pockets of wind slab up to 40cm deep are present in lee and cross loaded features in the alpine. Gullies require attention and good snow assessment. Cornices will be developing with the incoming wind event.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Persistent Slabs

No new avalanches noted on this layer. Ice climbers should be wary of pockets of slabs between pitches and along the approach or descents.

Aspects: North, North East, East.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 4

Valid until: Nov 17th, 2012 8:00AM