Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Nov 19th, 2016 3:00PM

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

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Snow transport was more pronounced today, so watch for further slab development. Sluffing in steep terrain was also observed today, so be aware of overhead hazard, especially on ice climbs.

Summary

Confidence

Moderate -

Weather Forecast

Sunday will be mainly cloudy with isolated flurries and only a trace of precipitation. Temperatures in the Alpine will reach a high of -6 °C with ridge top wind out of the southwest at 25-35 km/h. Freezing level will climb to 1700 metres during the day. Not much in the forecast for snow for next week.

Avalanche Summary

Numerous loose dry avalanches up to sz 1.5 running on top of the Nov 12th crust. These are occurring primarily on East aspects at Alpine elevations.

Snowpack Summary

Snow transport observed at ridge crest today. In sheltered areas15-25cm of low density snow is overlying the Nov 12th temperature crust. Isolated wind slabs are being observed in Alpine areas along ridgelines and in cross-loaded features, but these problems do not extend far downslope in most areas. The snowpack at 2200m is anywhere from 50-60cm but it RAPIDLY tapers with elevation and is still pretty shallow in the trees. The Nov Crust is something that will be with us for the whole season likely so get used to us talking about it.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Use caution around ridgelines, gullies and cross-loaded terrain. Slabs do not likely extend far downslope but if something was to start it would be a rough ride. Ice climbers should watch for small slabs funneling down onto a route.

Caution in lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.Be careful with wind loaded pockets while approaching and climbing ice routes.Carry avalanche safety equipment on ice climbs in avalanche terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Loose Dry

Sluffing in steep terrain may be a concern for ice climbers in confined or exposed terrain.

Carry avalanche safety equipment on ice climbs in avalanche terrain.

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

Elevations: Alpine.

Likelihood

Possible

Expected Size

1 - 2

Valid until: Nov 20th, 2016 2:00PM