Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Feb 13th, 2023–Feb 14th, 2023

Alpine

3: Considerable

The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable

Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be moderate

Below Treeline

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

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

2: Moderate

The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate

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

Regions: Glacier.

Wind-affected slopes will demand caution, as storm slabs lurk at ridgeline and across open, exposed slopes.

The sun is packing a bit more punch these days. Solar aspects may see increased avalanche activity the next few days with its appearance.

Confidence

Moderate

Avalanche Summary

A natural avalanche cycle Sunday night/Monday morning saw numerous slab avalanches from sz 2-3.5. Ross Peak, Gunners, and Cougar Creek West paths had notable avalanches, with debris out on their fans at valley bottom.

Snowpack Summary

Strong SW winds and 30cm of overnight snow have formed a storm slab in lee and crossloaded features at Alpine/Treeline elevations. Sheltered areas hold deep, unconsolidated powder.

A thin sun crust was observed on steep S'ly aspects Monday from the short sunny period in the am.

The Nov 17 deep persistent weak layer has been dormant in GNP for several weeks now.

Weather Summary

Convective flurries will give way to a cool, clearing trend over the next few days.

Tonight: Clear periods, Alp low -11*C, light N winds

Tues: mix of sun/cloud, Alp high -10*C, light NW winds

Wed: sun and cloud, Alp high -11*C, light W winds

Terrain and Travel Advice

Continue to make conservative terrain choices while the storm snow settles and stabilizes.
Use small low consequence slopes to test the bond of the new snow.
Avoid exposure to slopes that have cornices overhead.

Avalanche Problems

Storm Slabs

Storm snow and strong SW winds created storm slabs in Alpine and Treeline. Cooler temps the next few days will help try to lock this layer in place, but caution is mandatory when transitioning into wind-affected areas.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: All elevations.

Likelihood: Possible - Likely

Expected Size: 1.5 - 3