Avalog
Register
Get forecast notifications
Create an account to receive email notifications when forecasts are published.
Register
Login
Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Jan 8th, 2017–Jan 9th, 2017
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
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: Banff Yoho Kootenay.

The snowpack is weak, faceted and very complex. All characteristics of an old-school Rockies winter. Critical thought and nuanced decision making will be important for the rest of the season.

Weather Forecast

We are expecting up to 15mm of precip over the forecast region in the next 36 hours. The snow will be accompanied by moderate wind from the west at the 3000m level. Models also suggest that the temps will dive back to the -25 or colder range starting Tuesday afternoon.

Snowpack Summary

20-30 cm of faceted snow and wind slab sits over top of the weak December facet layer which in turn sits on the Nov 12 rain crust. This poor snow structure of firm snow over weak facets will likely be with us for some time and does not inspire confidence.

Avalanche Summary

No avalanches were observed or reported today.

Confidence

Wind effect is extremely variable

Avalanche Problems

Persistent Slabs

Natural and human triggering has tapered off in recent days, but forecasters still have little confidence and feel there is a high degree of variability across the forecast region. Where winbslabs exist be especially cautious.
Use caution in lee areas. Wind loading could create slabs.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood: Possible

Expected Size: 1 - 3