Avalanche Forecast
Issued: Feb 3rd, 2024 4:00PM
The alpine rating is , the treeline rating is , and the below treeline rating is Known problems include Storm Slabs.
wlewis,
Avalanche Canada
UPDATED SUNDAY AT 7:15 AM: Less snow has fallen than forecast, but we still expect reactive storm slabs at higher elevations. Highest snowfall amounts are expected in the east.
Summary
Confidence
Avalanche Summary
We expect avalanche activity to increase on Sunday with cooler temperatures and fresh snowfall.
Snowpack Summary
Up to 30 cm of storm snow is expected to fall by Sunday afternoon in the Crowsnest Pass and eastern terrain, the Lizard range will likely see around 20 cm. This snow accumulates over a crust and may not bond well.
The middle of the snowpack is generally well bonded in the Lizard and Flathead areas. In the Crowsnest Pass and Elkford areas there is a layer of sugary facets that are buried 30-50 cm deep and in some places may sit on a crust. Avalanches on this layer are unlikely, but we continued to monitor it.
The lower snowpack contains a series of crusts and faceted snow that are more prominent in shallow areas in the east and north of this forecast region.
Weather Summary
Saturday Night
Cloudy with 10 cm of snow likely in the Lizard Range, and up to 20 cm possible in the Crowsnest Pass. Northeast winds 30-60 km/h. Freezing levels drop to valley bottom.
Sunday
Mainly cloudy with flurries tapering off by midday. Freezing levels around 1000 m, treeline temperatures of -9 °C. Southwest winds 10-30 km/h.
Monday
A mix of sun and cloud. Freezing levels around 1000 m, treeline temperatures of -9 °C. Southwest winds 10-40 km/h.
Tuesday
A mix of sun and cloud. Freezing levels reach 1500 m, treeline temperatures of -5 °C. Southwest winds 20-50 km/h.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
Terrain and Travel Advice
- Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
- Keep in mind the crust offers an excellent bed surface for avalanches.
- Watch for wind-loaded pockets especially around ridgecrest and in extreme terrain.
Problems
Storm Slabs
Expect reactive conditions as storm slabs build over a crust. Watch for increased reactivity in wind affected areas where slabs will be deeper.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood
Expected Size
Valid until: Feb 4th, 2024 4:00PM
