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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 31st, 2013–Jan 3rd, 2014
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
Alpine
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
3: Considerable
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable
Below Treeline
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

Regions: Waterton Lakes.

Thin coverage in many areas over rocks and stumps remains a significant hazard. Good snow can be found in more sheltered areas near treeline.

Weather Forecast

Continuing dry until late Thursday. Exciting to see as much as 20cm forecast for Friday as the cold arctic air mass meets with the westerly flow. Winds are expected to shift from west to north which will see reverse loading and a potential for increased avalanche hazard.

Snowpack Summary

A layer of faceted, weak crystals is found in most locations at about 30 to 40cm off the ground. Human triggering of this deeper instability may be possible in shallower snowpack  areas. Wind slabs are a concern in open areas at tree line and above.

Avalanche Summary

Very little recent activity.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Avalanche Problems

Wind Slabs

West winds have built wind slabs in lee areas and cross loaded terrain such as gully features. Triggering may be possible on steeper or unsupported features.
Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.Be careful with wind loaded pockets, especially near ridge crests and roll-overs.

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

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

This layer of weak sugary snow is found in many areas  about 30 to 40cm from the ground. Triggering  of this  layer is more of a concern in shallower snowpack areas.
Dig down to find and test weak layers before committing to a line.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3