Avalanche Forecast
Regions: Bow Valley, Highwood Pass, Kananaskis, North 40, Spray - KLakes.
Up to 40cm of storm snow is out still producing avalanches. Conservative route finding is still in order.
Confidence
Moderate
Avalanche Summary
The mountain rescue team was out on a flight today and observed a lot of terrain. Numerous loose dry avalanche activity was observed throughout K-Country with the odd 15-20cm slab avalanche on lee features.
Snowpack Summary
There is approximately 30-40cm of storm snow that consists mostly of loose dry snow, along with some wind slab formation on lee features. This interface between the new and old snow will continue to be a concern for triggering, especially with more snow forecast on Wednesday and Thursday. The bottom 40cm of the snowpack is mostly facets that got shaped during the draught.
Weather Summary
Expect a mix of sun and cloud for Tuesday with temperatures between -17c and -25c. At least winds will be light out of the North. More snow on the way starting Wednesday. Stay tuned...:)
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Loose avalanches may start small but they can grow and push you into dangerous terrain.
- Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
- Ice climbers should be equipped with avalanche safety gear.
Avalanche Problems
Loose Dry
Rapid loading has led to an avalanche cycle of loose dry slides up to size 2. Steep, rocky terrain and confined features such as gullies are areas of concern.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1 - 2
Wind Slabs
Wind slabs are expected in all Alpine terrain on all aspects. At Treeline these slabs are expected to be more confined to ridge-crests and gully features.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 1.5 - 2.5