Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 8th, 2013 4:00PM

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

conrad janzen, Parks Canada

Banff Yoho Kootenay.

Cold temperatures continue to be the major factor affecting the snowpack. Overall the snowpack is relatively weak and shallow with deep basal facets. Early season hazards such as stumps and rocks are near the surface and careful travel is advised.

Summary

Weather Forecast

The cold temperatures are beginning to moderate however they remain in the low teens for the next couple of days with Moderate NW winds.Â A few more clouds and some light flurries are expected by Tuesday but still little in the way of snow accumulation.

Snowpack Summary

The snowpack is generally weak, facetted and shallow with little recent changes due to the cold temperatures. 60-70cm of snow exists at tree line.

Avalanche Summary

No new avalanche activity observed in the last several days.

Confidence

Intensity of incoming weather systems is uncertain

Problems

Wind Slabs

In the alpine some small wind slabs from previous strong winds may be present.

Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Be cautious as you transition into wind affected terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Persistent Slabs

The main weaknesses in the snowpack continue to be the basal facets and the October 27th melt freeze crust. No recent failures on these layers have been observed however the potential for full depth releases still exists in some alpine locations.

Be aware of the potential for full depth avalanches due to deeply buried weak layers.

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Dec 9th, 2013 4:00PM