Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Mar 22nd, 2012 8:15AM

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

eric dafoe, Parks Canada

Glacier.

Summary

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs and loaded pillows formed from strong S winds. Natural avalanches on steep N asp running full path. Slabs formed at ridge lines and cross loaded features. In some areas slabs are buried under 15-20cm of new snow.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Cornices

Most ridges throughout the Park have massive cornices. Fluctuating temperatures wind transport increase the potential for cornice failure. Cornice failure is unpredictable. Be aware of the overhead hazard on your approach.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Deep Persistent Slabs

The Feb 9 surface hoar, sun crust, facet layer is now down 1.5-2 m. Skiers are unlikely to fail this layer, but consequences are high if this layer does fail. Cornice failure is the most likely trigger on this layer.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 4

Valid until: Mar 23rd, 2012 8:00AM